Love of God Is either his natural delight in that which is good, Is. 61: 8. or that especial affection he bears to his people, 1 John 4:19. Not that he possesses the passion of love as we do; but it implies his absolute purpose and will to deliver, bless, and save his people. The love of God to his people appears in his all- wise designs and plans for their happiness, Ephesians 3:10.
2. In the choice of them and determination to sanctify and glorify them, 2 Thessalonians 2:13.
3. In the gift of his Son to die for them, and redeem them from sin, death, and hell, Romans 5:9. John 3:16.
4. In the revelation of his will, and the declaration of his promises to them, 2 Peter 1:4.
5. In the awful punishment of their enemies, Exodus 19:4.
6. In his actual conduct towards them; in supporting them in life, blessing them in death, and bringing them to glory, Romans 8:30, &c. Romans 6:23. The properties of this love may be considered as,
1. Everlasting, Jeremiah 31:3. Ephesians 1:4.
2. Immutable, Malachi 3:6. Zephaniah 3:17.
3. Free, neither the sufferings of Christ nor the merits of men are the cause, but his own good pleasure, John 3:16.
4. Great and unspeakable, Ephesians 2:4; Ephesians 2:6; Ephesians 3:19; Psalms 36:7.