Is there anymore perfect verse than this?

[lightbulb27]

That about sums it up...

[Jbear27]

I think there is good intent behind religion although I don’t believe in any religion. It’s just an easy way to control the masses and instill a moral code in them utilizing the fear of going to hell. I mean it’s kind of shitty that you even have to threaten hell to make people walk a righteous path but it works. Some people need something to fear and something to believe in because they lack the ability to believe in themselves and take accountability. They have to believe in gods plan, that everything happens for a reason. But to each their own.

[lightbulb27]

fear certainly is powerful.
But this was written long time ago by someones, as far as I can tell, were not in power. They were trying to save people from the misery of this world. society recognized that value and thus accepted and promoted it.
The underlying intent though... seems to resonate correctly with most...

[Anonymous]

"If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple." (Luke 14:26) 🙃

(Yes, yes, context matters. Do you know the context of 1 John 4:18 quoted in the question, though? Did you check, or did you take it at face value because it sounds nice and you agree with it? It happens not to be that bad, but when you think about it like that, it's easy to see how other people can use the Bible to justify weird or horrible views when they aren't critical of their own interpretation. Kinda makes you wonder if there's something you've been interpreting incorrectly this whole time.)

[loveslongnails]

"Whoever claims to love God but hates his brother or sister is a liar". I have some news: there isn't a person on this planet who can say they live up to that, because humans do not understand that kind of love. I'm not even sure we humans understand much of anything about love at all.

[lightbulb27]

I think you got that right. It's a striving, a recognition of what is right but difficult... some better than others. The author was striving...

[NathanDavis]

once I went into a religious building full of religious people... and I heard "Fear God!!!"

and right away I was like... NOPE, walked out right away

so, I do agree... love is not about fear

[lightbulb27]

yea that is a weird concept to hear... from the old testament... in relation to church isn't it. good point!
They should have feared God back then... for they were under a curse and God was Wrath. Under Christianity, they are children... the fear cast out.
Makes sense in context, but people get lost in the fog...

[jshm2]

Yes, and that verse is translated wrong.