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John has a reputation as the Apostle of love. The theme of love is woven throughout his writings. Knowing the value of love he does not hesitate to be very explicit about the Divine requirements of love. The standard of Christianity which he presents is of the very highest. It presents a real challenge but will yield exceedingly great benefits when put into practice.
“If a man say.” 1 John 4:20 It is not difficult to produce and speak words, to make declarations of purpose and intent. However, that is not what John is seeking from the person who confesses Christ. He wants practical proof, an evidence that the love of Christ is really being manifest by the individual. To put it in a crude manner, put up or shut up. Give positive proof of ones position in Christ. How? By baring the innermost emotions of the heart. Do we love all, or are there those whom we hate? Love and hate are such extreme opposites that there is no room in the heart for both. Most definitely, the attitude toward those whom we do not like, or maybe even hate, determines the measure of love we have for the Lord.
Who wants to be called a liar. John has just placed all, in the category of a liar. who with their mouths confess the Lord Jesus but in their hearts carry a great hatred for someone whom they feel has offended them. In some cases the action was an offence. In others it is merely an assumption, or a misunderstanding. What ever the cause, no Christian can afford to carry a burden of hatred. Hatred for another person is pure poison. Then one who is poisoned is the one who hates. It has a physical effect as well as a spiritual and is exceedingly destructive. Love promotes and will result in great advantages. If we cannot love our brother whom we know and see, how then, can we love the Lord whom we have not seen. Impossible.
Is there a solution? Of course, but it is humbling. Jesus taught reconciliation. The afore mention lack of love could well be a reason for a failure to receive an answer to our prayers. When we approach the Lord in our prayers, and we remember the feelings which we have against another, leave your gift, go and be reconciled. Then come and offer your gift unto the Lord. Mt. 5:23-24 Hatred toward another is definitely a hindrance to prayer. If we really want an answer to our prayers, let’s follow the Bible pattern.