How do we know that love cannot atone for our sins?

While scripture encourages believers to love one another, it also warns against the misconception that our love or charitable deeds can atone for our sins. In Matthew 7:22-23, Jesus indicates that mere acts of service in His name are insufficient for salvation if one does not genuinely know Him. Our love, though important, does not satisfy God's justice; only the perfect obedience and sacrifice of Jesus Christ can do that. By acknowledging our sinfulness and looking to Christ for salvation, we find true atonement and the security of knowing we are loved by God.