The One Who Loves His Brother – January 28, 2026
Read: 1 John 2:3-11
The one who says, “I know him,” but does not keep his commands is a liar, and the truth is not in him. The one who loves his brother remains in the light, and nothing causes him to stumble. 1 John 2:4,10 (EHV)
The One Who Loves His Brother
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Imagine saying to a police officer, “I know you! I like you!” But then you grab his hat and run away laughing.
Imagine saying to a teacher, “I know you! You’re the best!” But then you cheat on a test in her classroom.
Imagine saying to your brother or sister, “I love you!” But then you punch them in the arm or say something mean.
People would say, “That doesn’t make sense.” You can say you love someone a hundred times, but if your actions don’t match your words, people won’t believe you.
That’s what the apostle John was teaching when he wrote, “The one who says, ‘I know him,’ but does not keep his commands is a liar.” John was talking about Jesus. If someone says they know and love Jesus but never listens to him or never tries to do what he says, their words don’t match their actions.
That can feel a little scary. Have you always listened to Jesus? Have you always been loving? Kind? Obedient? John also writes, “The one who loves his brother remains in the light.”
So think about today: Were you kind to your brother or sister—or did you say something mean? Did you listen to your parents and teachers—or argue and complain? Did you treat classmates and friends with love—or ignore them or hurt their feelings?
These questions help us do something important called repentance. Repentance means admitting we have sinned and being sorry about it. But repentance doesn’t stop there. Repentance means taking that sin and sadness to Jesus. And here’s the best part: Jesus forgives. Always. Jesus is the one who perfectly loved his brothers and sisters—us! He showed that love by going to the cross and taking the punishment for our sins.
Because Jesus loves you and forgives you, you really do know him. And because you know him, you want to listen to him. That’s what it means to be “the one who loves his brother” and “remains in the light.”
God forgives you. Jesus is with you. And one day, he will raise you to live forever. That’s why, even when we mess up and stumble in sin, don’t stay stuck—keep walking in the light!
Prayer:
Lord, as you first loved us, inspire us to love one another. Amen.
The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.
Questions for Younger Children
- When is it hardest to love your brother, sister, or parents? (What usually causes arguments or hurt feelings?)
- How did Jesus show that he loves you? (Think about the cross, forgiveness, and promises.)
Questions for Elementary Age Children
- What does it mean to “know Jesus”? (Is it just knowing facts—or trusting and following him?)
- What are some ways you can show others that you know Jesus? (At home, school, or with friends.)
Questions for Middle School and Above
- What is repentance? (Try to explain it in your own words.)
- Why do we need repentance every day—even when we’re believers?
