If we say that we know him, but do not obey his commands, we are liars and there is no truth in us.

If we say that we are in the light, yet hate others, we are in the darkness to this very hour.

So everyone who lives in union with Christ does not continue to sin; but whoever continues to sin has never seen him or known him.

Jesus answered, "If I were to honor myself, that honor would be worth nothing. The one who honors me is my Father---the very one you say is your God.

You have never known him, but I know him. If I were to say that I do not know him, I would be a liar like you. But I do know him, and I obey his word.

Now the message that we have heard from his Son and announce is this: God is light, and there is no darkness at all in him.

The LORD then passed in front of him and called out, "I, the LORD, am a God who is full of compassion and pity, who is not easily angered and who shows great love and faithfulness.

I keep my promise for thousands of generations and forgive evil and sin; but I will not fail to punish children and grandchildren to the third and fourth generation for the sins of their parents."

You are good to us and forgiving, full of constant love for all who pray to you.

But you, O Lord, are a merciful and loving God, always patient, always kind and faithful.

And now, my friends, good-bye! Strive for perfection; listen to my appeals; agree with one another; live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.

But God's mercy is so abundant, and his love for us is so great,

because our God is indeed a destroying fire.