God’s perfect love removes the terror of condemnation for believers, allowing them to rest in assurance of His grace.
1 John 4:18 states that there is no fear in love; perfect love casts out fear. This 'perfect love' refers to God’s unwavering and sacrificial love for His people through Jesus Christ. When a believer truly understands the depth of this love and the complete atonement made on their behalf, they find peace rather than fear in the face of God's holiness. The terror of judgment is removed because Christ has borne the penalty for sin; thus, believers are called to rest in His love rather than to be alarmed by their shortcomings.
Scripture References:
1 John 4:18, 2 Corinthians 5:21, John 10:15, Romans 8:1
Commentary