The apostle John wanted his readers to examine their lives and discover the evidence that proved they could know God without a doubt. To help his readers discover this truth, he provided a series of test questions. These tests include the test of obedience (1 John 2:3-6; 3:6-9; 5:2), the test of love (1 John 2:9-11; 3:14-15), and the test of doctrine (1 John 2:22-23; 4:2-3, 15; 5:1). These lessons this week focused on the test of obedience and love. Loving one another, as a commandment, goes back to Old Testament teaching. Love has always been God’s plan of redemption. Love is expressed through self-sacrifice and servanthood. Love reaches even to our enemies and those who persecute us. Just as plants need light to grow, so love is the key to walking in the light of God’s love and growing spiritually. Does this mean we must always agree or like everyone? No! John’s words focus on our tendency to despise and hate rather than to love. Christian love is not about feeling, but is a choice. John says we will know we are God’s when we stop loving this world. Jesus said to be “in” the world, not “of” the world. Some people believe worldliness is limited to our behavior – the places we go or the activities we enjoy. Worldliness is internal because behavior begins with the attitude of the heart. Lust of pleasure, things and pride all begin in the heart. In contrast to the flesh, God values self control, generosity and humble service. So how can we say we know we belong to God? Our attitude and actions bear witness to the light and life that indwells us. A life lived for the Lord is a life filled with love and John references this as “living in the light.” And those who hate a brother or sister will be living in darkness without knowledge of the way to go. And further in verses 15-17 we are urged to keep from allowing secular values to get in the way of our commitment and love for God. Worldliness can easily draw many Christians into its snares of pride and pleasure. The danger can be summed up in one word, success. The world has a definition that is often in stark contrast to the kingdom, and to “knowing the Lord.” Verse 17 tells us, “this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.” Success in knowing God is pleasing God and that is our ultimate hope in our witness. Do you have no doubt that you know God? Does your witness provide no doubt to the world? WORD, my friend.
Posted on: Thu, 11 Jul 2013 14:23:04 +0000
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