What does the phrase "He who does not love abides in death" exactly mean?

The phrase "He who does not love abides in death" from 1 John 3:14 is a spiritual commentary on the state of an individual who lacks love, particularly love for their brethren or fellow believers. Here are some key points to understand its meaning:

Spiritual State

The phrase indicates that a person who does not exhibit love remains in a state of spiritual death. This is contrasted with those who have passed "out of death into life" because they love their brethren245.

Lack of Eternal Life

It suggests that the absence of love is a sign that the person has not experienced the new birth in Christ and therefore does not possess eternal life. This is reinforced by the statement that "no murderer has eternal life abiding in him," which equates hatred with murder in God's eyes134.

Hatred and Murder

The passage further clarifies that hatred towards one's brother is considered equivalent to murder, and such a person remains in spiritual death. This emphasizes that the attitude of hatred is as severe as the act of murder in terms of its spiritual implications135.

Love as Evidence of Life

Conversely, the presence of love serves as evidence that one has passed from death to life. This love is not just emotional but practical and sacrificial, reflecting the love demonstrated by Christ24.

Separation from God

A person who does not love is described as being controlled by the flesh and separated from God by their sin. This state of separation is what is meant by "abiding in death"12.

In summary, "He who does not love abides in death" means that a lack of love, especially towards fellow believers, indicates a state of spiritual death, a lack of eternal life, and separation from God.