John’s First Epistle focuses on believers living in a time of serious challenge to their faith. A central theme resides in the admonition for believers to realize the significance of harmonizing their beliefs with their conduct. Hence, the title of the book, Walk in Light and Love. When united together, belief and lifestyle present powerful witness to the truth of the gospel that is not present in a single side. The point is that theological beliefs become compelling when expressed in loving ways, especially to those who may radically disagree with us. Thus, the admonition: Walk in light and love.
There is no rift between the enkindled heart and the enlightened mind. Light without love can be as forbiddingly cold as an iceberg in moonlight. Love without light, on the other hand, can be as flamingly destructive as a forest fire in the dry season …Love as unregulated impulse is dangerous. Love giving itself to hard thinking and sensitive discrimination is a delight to God and a priceless benediction to the Church and society.
-Paul S. Rees