Love gives us this confidence. Thirdly, love drives out fear because it assures us we have been accepted by God. In verse 18, we read, there is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
Love drives out fear.
We don't have to be afraid because we have been accepted. The punishment of God is reserved for those who reject Him. We have received Him. We have responded to His love. We have been accepted in His family.