What is Unconditional Love?

If God is the God of love, why do we need to repent? If God is all-powerful, why doesn’t He just eliminate sin? Is it too late to accept Jesus? On this episode of the podcast, we deep dive into what the Gospel really is, how understanding God's unconditional love can change us, and we answered more questions on Christianity.

Unconditional love is…

Unconditional love is a concept closely associated with God's love for humanity. It is described as a love that is not based on conditions or requirements. God's love is said to be unconditional in that it is not dependent on human actions or worthiness. It is a constant and unwavering love that extends to all individuals, regardless of their flaws or sins.

One of the most well-known verses exemplifying this concept is John 3:16, which states, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life" (ESV). This verse highlights God's immense love for humanity, as He is willing to sacrifice His Son for their salvation.

Furthermore, 1 John 4:8 affirms that God is love, and this love is not based on conditions or personal gain. It is an inherent part of His nature to love, and His love extends to all people unconditionally

If God is the God of love, why do we need to repent? 

The concept of repentance is closely tied to God's love and His desire for a relationship with humanity. While God is indeed a God of love, repentance is necessary because of the presence of sin in the world and its impact on our relationship with God.

Sin separates us from God and hinders our ability to experience His love fully. Sin distorts our relationship with God and with others, causing harm and brokenness. Repentance, therefore, is a process of acknowledging our wrongdoing, turning away from it, and seeking forgiveness from God.

Repentance is not about earning God's love or forgiveness, but rather about humbly recognizing our need for His grace and mercy. It is an act of acknowledging our imperfections and surrendering them to God, inviting Him to work in our lives and transform us. Through repentance, we demonstrate a genuine desire to live in alignment with God's will.

When we repent, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God's love and invite Him to restore our relationship with Him. Repentance allows us to experience God's forgiveness, healing, and reconciliation.

If God is all-powerful, why doesn’t He just eliminate sin?

While we may not fully comprehend God's reasons or the nature of His plans, there are a few key aspects to consider:

1) Free Will

One aspect of God's creation is the gift of free will, which includes the freedom to make choices, including the choice to sin. Love and relationship require the freedom to choose, and without the ability to choose, love becomes meaningless. God respects our freedom to make choices.

2) Redemption and transformation

God's response to sin is not to eliminate it outright but to provide a means of redemption and transformation. God, through His Son Jesus Christ, offers forgiveness and salvation to those who repent and turn to Him. Rather than eliminating sin forcibly, God works in the hearts and lives of individuals, offering the possibility of transformation and a new life in relationship with Him.

Is it too late to accept Jesus?

No, it is never too late to accept Jesus. The Bible teaches that God is patient and desires for everyone to come to repentance. Just as the thief on the cross who turned to Jesus in faith moments before his death was saved, it is not too late for anyone to receive salvatio3. God's invitation to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior is available to all, regardless of their past or current circumstances. It is important to remember that God's love and grace are boundless, and His desire is for all people to experience forgiveness and eternal life through Jesus Christ.

God’s unconditional love brings change in our lives.
— Joyce Pring
 

From Episode 186 of Adulting with Joyce Pring: “What is Unconditional Love?”