In this passage of scripture, John the Elder, becomes most practical in his thinking. His advice to the church is now presented at grass-root level. John uses opposites as a medium to present Eternal Truths.
Love is synonymous with life, and death is synonymous with hate.
He demonstrates love as opposed to hate by a vivid and well known biblical illustration of the evil act of Cain murdering his brother Abel. If John were invited to speak to the churches of our times, a message on the importance of love would be quite appropriate. Loves seems to be the forgotten element in many churches. The need for love, both to love others, and to be loved by others, is a most basic human need. Apart from our love for God, love for our fellowman is foundational in living the Christian Life.