How do we know that love is essential in Christian doctrine?

Love is central to the Christian faith as articulated in Scripture, particularly in 1 John 4 which states that God is love. Those who are truly regenerated by God's grace will exhibit love towards God and their fellow believers. This is further emphasized in John 13:35, where Jesus declares that love among His disciples is the defining mark of true discipleship. Thus, the manifestation of love in a believer's life serves as both evidence of their regeneration and a necessary component of their faith.