“And he that keepeth His commandments dwelleth in Him, and He in him. And hereby we know that He abideth in us, by the Spirit which He hath given us.”(I John 3:24)
John continues to give his readers assurance of salvation, exploring the subject from every side. If one is not sure of being saved he can be very miserable. So he looks at assurance from many angles. May I say, not only do the saved need to have assurance that they are saved, the lost or unsaved need to know they are lost.
From Paul’s pen we read that, “The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.” ( Romans 8:16) When we became believers and were “born again,” God placed the Holy Spirit within us.
The great hymn writer Fanny J. Crosby penned these words:
Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God, born of His Spirit, washed in His blood.
Saturday, September 30, 2017
Friday, September 29, 2017
God Answers Prayer
“And whatsoever we ask, we receive of Him, because we keep His commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. And this is His commandment, that we should believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as He gave us commandment.” (I John 3: 22-23)
Someone has said that God answers every prayer we pray with either “yes,” “no,” or “later.” Whenever He gives us an answer to our petition it is because we please Him in keeping the two commandments in our text. The two specific commandments He gives here are, in this order, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and second, loving others.
We should not expect God to answer the prayer of someone who rejects Jesus, the Son of God, not believing in Him for salvation. He who loves us so much that He sent His only Son to pay our sin debt expects us to love others.
Someone has said that God answers every prayer we pray with either “yes,” “no,” or “later.” Whenever He gives us an answer to our petition it is because we please Him in keeping the two commandments in our text. The two specific commandments He gives here are, in this order, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and second, loving others.
We should not expect God to answer the prayer of someone who rejects Jesus, the Son of God, not believing in Him for salvation. He who loves us so much that He sent His only Son to pay our sin debt expects us to love others.
Thursday, September 28, 2017
How About Your Heart?
“And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before Him. For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things. Beloved, if our heart condemns us not, then have we confidence toward God.”
(I John 3:19-21)
Good works do not bring salvation; they are the result of salvation. We go to the Bible to find assurance in the promises He has made to us. However, good deeds, such as helping others assure our hearts before Him.
I think of Simon Peter who boasted that if everyone else denied the Lord, he would not. When he denied the Lord on the night before the cross he went out and wept bitterly. I have been there. Perhaps you have, also. We might even question our salvation because of that or some other sin. But God is greater than our feelings of lostness over our failures and knows what He promised, even eternal life. (I John 2:25)
What joy are those days when we have confidence toward God, assured that He is holding us, and His promises in the Word of God are standing firm.
(I John 3:19-21)
Good works do not bring salvation; they are the result of salvation. We go to the Bible to find assurance in the promises He has made to us. However, good deeds, such as helping others assure our hearts before Him.
I think of Simon Peter who boasted that if everyone else denied the Lord, he would not. When he denied the Lord on the night before the cross he went out and wept bitterly. I have been there. Perhaps you have, also. We might even question our salvation because of that or some other sin. But God is greater than our feelings of lostness over our failures and knows what He promised, even eternal life. (I John 2:25)
What joy are those days when we have confidence toward God, assured that He is holding us, and His promises in the Word of God are standing firm.
Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Love in Deed and in Truth
“But whoso hath this world’s goods, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwellth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.” (I John 3:17-18)
A widow was rearing four children. Her house was destroyed by fire. Folks in the community were making up money, clothing, furniture, canned goods, potatoes and whatever she might need.
A farmer was approached by someone helping take up goods for the unfortunate widow. The farmer went to his smoke-house where he saw a nice, nearly perfect ham. As he started to take it down the devil seemed to say, “Don’t give them your best ham. They will be glad to have anything.” God seemed to say, “Give her your best ham.” As he struggled with indecision he said, “Devil, if you don’t go away and leave me alone I’ll give that poor widow every ham in my smoke-house” He gave her his best one.
That is loving “in deed and in truth.” Before we clench our greedy hands selfishly around the goods that God has given us we should remember what Jesus did at the cross.
A widow was rearing four children. Her house was destroyed by fire. Folks in the community were making up money, clothing, furniture, canned goods, potatoes and whatever she might need.
A farmer was approached by someone helping take up goods for the unfortunate widow. The farmer went to his smoke-house where he saw a nice, nearly perfect ham. As he started to take it down the devil seemed to say, “Don’t give them your best ham. They will be glad to have anything.” God seemed to say, “Give her your best ham.” As he struggled with indecision he said, “Devil, if you don’t go away and leave me alone I’ll give that poor widow every ham in my smoke-house” He gave her his best one.
That is loving “in deed and in truth.” Before we clench our greedy hands selfishly around the goods that God has given us we should remember what Jesus did at the cross.
Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Consider Calvary
“Hereby perceive we the love of God, because He laid down His life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” (I John 3:16)
This verse should remind all of us of Calvary where our Savior died. I think of the six mock trials of Jesus, three before the Romans and three before the Jews. I think of the injustice. It reminds us of the release of Barabbas, a murderer, letting him go free and then the scourging of Jesus, ordered by Pilate. I think of the crown of thorns, of the nails in His hands and feet and the breathing of His last breath.
Jesus said, “This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, That a man lay down his life for his friends.” ( John 15:12-13)
Consider Calvary.
This verse should remind all of us of Calvary where our Savior died. I think of the six mock trials of Jesus, three before the Romans and three before the Jews. I think of the injustice. It reminds us of the release of Barabbas, a murderer, letting him go free and then the scourging of Jesus, ordered by Pilate. I think of the crown of thorns, of the nails in His hands and feet and the breathing of His last breath.
Jesus said, “This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, That a man lay down his life for his friends.” ( John 15:12-13)
Consider Calvary.
Monday, September 25, 2017
Murder: a Sin of the Heart
“Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.” (I John 3:15)
What is murder? Jesus said in the sermon on the mount, “Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, 'Thou shalt not kill;' and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment…” (Matthew 5:21-22) It is a sin of the heart according to Jesus in Matthew 15:19
Our text is not saying a murderer cannot be forgiven of the sin of murder. Jesus said, “All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit shall not be forgiven unto men.” (Matthew 12:31) The only one sin that cannot be forgiven is speaking a word against the Holy Spirit. Murder is a terrible sin but it is not the unpardonable sin.
It is possible for a man on death row in prison for murder to be forgiven if he will come before the Lord in repentance and faith in Jesus Christ to forgive. That does not contradict the fact that when someone commits murder he does not have eternal life abiding in him, nor will he have eternal life until or unless he comes before God with a broken and contrite heart, just like any other sinner with any other sin.
If someone is on death row for murder and gets saved in prison he still has a debt to pay to society that must be paid. Salvation is not a free pass out of jail.
What is murder? Jesus said in the sermon on the mount, “Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, 'Thou shalt not kill;' and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment…” (Matthew 5:21-22) It is a sin of the heart according to Jesus in Matthew 15:19
Our text is not saying a murderer cannot be forgiven of the sin of murder. Jesus said, “All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit shall not be forgiven unto men.” (Matthew 12:31) The only one sin that cannot be forgiven is speaking a word against the Holy Spirit. Murder is a terrible sin but it is not the unpardonable sin.
It is possible for a man on death row in prison for murder to be forgiven if he will come before the Lord in repentance and faith in Jesus Christ to forgive. That does not contradict the fact that when someone commits murder he does not have eternal life abiding in him, nor will he have eternal life until or unless he comes before God with a broken and contrite heart, just like any other sinner with any other sin.
If someone is on death row for murder and gets saved in prison he still has a debt to pay to society that must be paid. Salvation is not a free pass out of jail.
Sunday, September 24, 2017
Do I Love Everybody?
“We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.” (I John 3:14)
There is more to loving our brothers or people in general than not inflicting pain upon them. I have heard it said, “I love everybody. I’ve never harmed anyone. I wouldn’t hurt a flea.”
What if God had said, “I love everyone. I have done no harm to mankind. I think that’s enough.” Where would that have left you and me? But God loved us so much that He “gave His only Son…” He demonstrates His love for us. “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8 NKJV)
The Bible says, “…See that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently.” (I Peter 1:22) Godly, Biblical love is demonstrated by actions toward others; it is more than simply an absence of doing evil to them.
There is more to loving our brothers or people in general than not inflicting pain upon them. I have heard it said, “I love everybody. I’ve never harmed anyone. I wouldn’t hurt a flea.”
What if God had said, “I love everyone. I have done no harm to mankind. I think that’s enough.” Where would that have left you and me? But God loved us so much that He “gave His only Son…” He demonstrates His love for us. “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8 NKJV)
The Bible says, “…See that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently.” (I Peter 1:22) Godly, Biblical love is demonstrated by actions toward others; it is more than simply an absence of doing evil to them.
Saturday, September 23, 2017
If the World Hates You
“Marvel not my brethren, if the world hates you.” (I John 3:13)
It is beyond our comprehension that in the United States of America with its hundreds of churches and the freedom to worship as we please that there are people around the world whose lives are threatened because they express faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Many are separated from their families because they have become believers in Christ. Christians must gather in secret to worship the Lord.
Jesus said, “If the world hates you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.” (John 15:18) Abel was the first in a long line of martyrs because they were hated for their faith.
If you went from America to one of those countries which prohibit worship of the Lord Jesus what would you do? Would you be faithful to Jesus or would you “hide your light under a basket?”
Some of my readers follow Christ in areas that are hostile to Christians. Most of my readers and I may worship and serve the Lord freely and without fear. May God help us to make good use of our opportunities to worship and to be bright and shining lights in a very dark world.
It is beyond our comprehension that in the United States of America with its hundreds of churches and the freedom to worship as we please that there are people around the world whose lives are threatened because they express faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Many are separated from their families because they have become believers in Christ. Christians must gather in secret to worship the Lord.
Jesus said, “If the world hates you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.” (John 15:18) Abel was the first in a long line of martyrs because they were hated for their faith.
If you went from America to one of those countries which prohibit worship of the Lord Jesus what would you do? Would you be faithful to Jesus or would you “hide your light under a basket?”
Some of my readers follow Christ in areas that are hostile to Christians. Most of my readers and I may worship and serve the Lord freely and without fear. May God help us to make good use of our opportunities to worship and to be bright and shining lights in a very dark world.
Friday, September 22, 2017
Cain and Abel
“This is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous.” (I John 3:11-12)
Two young men, born to the same parents, reared in the same home and taught the same things turn out differently. What was the difference in their offerings? We are told that Cain was of that wicked one. Cain brought of the fruit of the ground; Abel brought of the firstlings of the flock. Abel’s offering was a blood offering looking toward Calvary and the shedding of the blood of the Lamb of God. Abel’s offering was offered by faith according to Hebrews 11:4
Nothing is said of Cain’s faith or of the blood. The Bible says that, “without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sins.” (Hebrews 9:22)
In our text the Bible says the reason Cain killed Abel, his brother, was because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous. Cain was jealous of Abel because God accepted Abel’s offering and rejected his.
Two young men, born to the same parents, reared in the same home and taught the same things turn out differently. What was the difference in their offerings? We are told that Cain was of that wicked one. Cain brought of the fruit of the ground; Abel brought of the firstlings of the flock. Abel’s offering was a blood offering looking toward Calvary and the shedding of the blood of the Lamb of God. Abel’s offering was offered by faith according to Hebrews 11:4
Nothing is said of Cain’s faith or of the blood. The Bible says that, “without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sins.” (Hebrews 9:22)
In our text the Bible says the reason Cain killed Abel, his brother, was because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous. Cain was jealous of Abel because God accepted Abel’s offering and rejected his.
Thursday, September 21, 2017
Love One Another
“In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.”(I John 3:10)
John is now adding a new facet to this already beautiful gem known as First John. By this new element the difference between the children of God and the children of the devil are clearly seen.
Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” ( John 13:34, 35)
Loving others as Christ loved us is not easily faked. There is no pretense in the love of Christ for us.
John is now adding a new facet to this already beautiful gem known as First John. By this new element the difference between the children of God and the children of the devil are clearly seen.
Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” ( John 13:34, 35)
Loving others as Christ loved us is not easily faked. There is no pretense in the love of Christ for us.
Wednesday, September 20, 2017
If You Talk the Talk Be Sure to Walk the Walk
“Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for His seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. (I John 3:9)
John is inspired by the Holy Spirit to look at the many sides of this issue concerning man’s actions matching his faith. This study John is leading us through is much like a gemologist might look at a multi-faceted diamond from every angle. The more he studies it the more it increases in value.
This present facet reminds us of the fact of the new birth. A Christian has been born again. He cannot continue in sin. It is a contradiction to claim to be born of God and at the same time practice sin against God.
If we talk the talk we must walk the walk.
John is inspired by the Holy Spirit to look at the many sides of this issue concerning man’s actions matching his faith. This study John is leading us through is much like a gemologist might look at a multi-faceted diamond from every angle. The more he studies it the more it increases in value.
This present facet reminds us of the fact of the new birth. A Christian has been born again. He cannot continue in sin. It is a contradiction to claim to be born of God and at the same time practice sin against God.
If we talk the talk we must walk the walk.
Tuesday, September 19, 2017
Why in the Devil do Men Follow the Devil?
“He that commiteth sin is the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.”
(I John 3:8)
Jesus had opposition from the devil from the beginning so it should come as no surprise that the followers of Jesus have opposition from the devil and his followers.
Jesus spoke to some self-righteous Pharisees and said, “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.” (John 8:44)
Amos the prophet posed a good question: “Can two walk together, except they be agreed” (Amos 3:3) We must decide with whom we shall walk; the Son of God or the devil. It is impossible to walk with two people who are going in opposite directions. You can’t walk with the devil and wind up in heaven.
(I John 3:8)
Jesus had opposition from the devil from the beginning so it should come as no surprise that the followers of Jesus have opposition from the devil and his followers.
Jesus spoke to some self-righteous Pharisees and said, “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.” (John 8:44)
Amos the prophet posed a good question: “Can two walk together, except they be agreed” (Amos 3:3) We must decide with whom we shall walk; the Son of God or the devil. It is impossible to walk with two people who are going in opposite directions. You can’t walk with the devil and wind up in heaven.
Monday, September 18, 2017
Changed from the Inside Out
“Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous.” (I John 3:7)
I have heard it said of someone who was living an ungodly life, “Well, I know he does not live right, but deep down his heart is right.”
Here is what Jesus said about that statement: “For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, and blasphemies.” (Matthew 15:19) The Bible also says, “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” (Proverbs 4:23)
Men attempt to change the Bible in order to accommodate their sins. But if Jesus Christ is invited in and changes man’s heart his life will exemplify that change.
I have heard it said of someone who was living an ungodly life, “Well, I know he does not live right, but deep down his heart is right.”
Here is what Jesus said about that statement: “For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, and blasphemies.” (Matthew 15:19) The Bible also says, “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” (Proverbs 4:23)
Men attempt to change the Bible in order to accommodate their sins. But if Jesus Christ is invited in and changes man’s heart his life will exemplify that change.
Sunday, September 17, 2017
Matching Life with Faith
“Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen Him, neither known Him.” (I John 3:6)
John, led by the Holy Spirit, continues his theme of letting one’s life-style match his profession of faith. The words, “abideth,” and “sinneth,” are continuous action. The person who practices and continues abiding in Jesus does not continue in the habit of sin. John is not speaking of an occasional slip-up, but an unrepentant practice of sin.
In a church where I was pastor I was concerned about a young man’s lifestyle, of his continuing to show no evidence of salvation. I dropped by his house one evening to talk with him. In the conversation I said, “Tell me about your experience of salvation.” He immediately took offence and said, “You think I haven’t had one. Well, I’m as good as those people at church.”
Being as good or bad is not the question. Have you invited Jesus into your heart and trusted Him for salvation? Are you abiding in Him? Does your life match what you say?
John, led by the Holy Spirit, continues his theme of letting one’s life-style match his profession of faith. The words, “abideth,” and “sinneth,” are continuous action. The person who practices and continues abiding in Jesus does not continue in the habit of sin. John is not speaking of an occasional slip-up, but an unrepentant practice of sin.
In a church where I was pastor I was concerned about a young man’s lifestyle, of his continuing to show no evidence of salvation. I dropped by his house one evening to talk with him. In the conversation I said, “Tell me about your experience of salvation.” He immediately took offence and said, “You think I haven’t had one. Well, I’m as good as those people at church.”
Being as good or bad is not the question. Have you invited Jesus into your heart and trusted Him for salvation? Are you abiding in Him? Does your life match what you say?
Saturday, September 16, 2017
The Perfect Sacrifice
“And ye know that He was manifested to take away our sins; and in Him is no sin.”
(I John 3:5)
The sinless Son of God is the only perfect sacrifice for the sins of mankind that will satisfy God. Parents often sacrifice for their children keeping them clothed, fed, healthy and educated. But no parent, no matter how noble or well intentioned, is suitable to serve as a sacrifice for the sins of their children. That would be one sinner dying for another sinner.
If you are saved He has removed your sins from you, as far as the east is from the west. (Psalm 103:12) They are no longer on your account because He bore our sins in His own body on the cross.
(I John 3:5)
The sinless Son of God is the only perfect sacrifice for the sins of mankind that will satisfy God. Parents often sacrifice for their children keeping them clothed, fed, healthy and educated. But no parent, no matter how noble or well intentioned, is suitable to serve as a sacrifice for the sins of their children. That would be one sinner dying for another sinner.
If you are saved He has removed your sins from you, as far as the east is from the west. (Psalm 103:12) They are no longer on your account because He bore our sins in His own body on the cross.
Friday, September 15, 2017
Transgressors
“Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.” (I John 3:4)
We have all sinned and come short of the glory of God. None of us have kept the law of God perfectly. The Bible says, “The law was added because of transgression…” (Galatians 3:19) Before the law was given mankind could perhaps claim perfection, not having the law spelled out to him. Man can claim sinlessness but his claims do not match his life. Man was given the law to show us how exceedingly sinful we are and how desperately we need a Savior.
We are not saved by the keeping of the law of God and neither are we kept saved by keeping the law. The Bible says, “I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness comes by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.” (Galatians 2:21)
One song of recent years says, “I’m just a sinner saved by grace, when I stood condemned to death, He took my place…”
We have all sinned and come short of the glory of God. None of us have kept the law of God perfectly. The Bible says, “The law was added because of transgression…” (Galatians 3:19) Before the law was given mankind could perhaps claim perfection, not having the law spelled out to him. Man can claim sinlessness but his claims do not match his life. Man was given the law to show us how exceedingly sinful we are and how desperately we need a Savior.
We are not saved by the keeping of the law of God and neither are we kept saved by keeping the law. The Bible says, “I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness comes by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.” (Galatians 2:21)
One song of recent years says, “I’m just a sinner saved by grace, when I stood condemned to death, He took my place…”
Thursday, September 14, 2017
The Christian’s Hope
“And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.
(I John 3:3)
The hope here is not wishful thinking. It is rather the guarantee promised by God Himself. There is no hope for the lost person. But the saved joyfully sing, “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.” The coming again of Jesus is one of the promises that make up the Christian’s hope.
With that hope firmly established in the believer, he is to purify himself even as Jesus is pure. I heard the following illustration somewhere: “The expectation of a house guest prompts preparation such as sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, dusting and so forth. The child of God is to order his life to match his hope.”
(I John 3:3)
The hope here is not wishful thinking. It is rather the guarantee promised by God Himself. There is no hope for the lost person. But the saved joyfully sing, “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.” The coming again of Jesus is one of the promises that make up the Christian’s hope.
With that hope firmly established in the believer, he is to purify himself even as Jesus is pure. I heard the following illustration somewhere: “The expectation of a house guest prompts preparation such as sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, dusting and so forth. The child of God is to order his life to match his hope.”
Wednesday, September 13, 2017
When He Shall Appear
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is. (I John 3:2)
In his song, “This Old House,” Stuart Hamblen tells about the body wearing out and it’s time to leave. The Bible says, “We shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye…” (I Corinthians 15:52) But, even while we are living in this old house of clay, if you have received Christ as your Savior, you are already a child of God.
I can think of no better person to be like than the Lord Jesus. We can only imagine what it will be like to see Jesus when He comes. But, whatever He looks like or acts like in His resurrection body, we shall be like Him.
There is no doubt that He is coming back to claim His own. Are you ready for His appearing?
In his song, “This Old House,” Stuart Hamblen tells about the body wearing out and it’s time to leave. The Bible says, “We shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye…” (I Corinthians 15:52) But, even while we are living in this old house of clay, if you have received Christ as your Savior, you are already a child of God.
I can think of no better person to be like than the Lord Jesus. We can only imagine what it will be like to see Jesus when He comes. But, whatever He looks like or acts like in His resurrection body, we shall be like Him.
There is no doubt that He is coming back to claim His own. Are you ready for His appearing?
Tuesday, September 12, 2017
What Manner of Love
“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not because it knew Him not.
(I John 3:1)
The love the Father has bestowed upon us is not, “Eros,” the physical attraction one might have for someone of the opposite sex. Nor is it, “Phileo,” brotherly kindness. The writer of Hebrews said, “Let brotherly love continue.” (Hebrews 13:1) Philadelphia is called the city of brotherly love. God has bestowed upon us “Agape” the word that depicts Calvary love. It is the John 3:16 love.
In this passage Christians are called, “the sons of God.” Added in some translations are the words, “And that we are.”
We may be frowned upon or belittled by the world because that is the reception the world gave to Jesus. Jesus told His followers, “If they have done these things to the green tree, what will they do to the dry.” Regardless of treatment of believers by the world we are forever the children of God.
(I John 3:1)
The love the Father has bestowed upon us is not, “Eros,” the physical attraction one might have for someone of the opposite sex. Nor is it, “Phileo,” brotherly kindness. The writer of Hebrews said, “Let brotherly love continue.” (Hebrews 13:1) Philadelphia is called the city of brotherly love. God has bestowed upon us “Agape” the word that depicts Calvary love. It is the John 3:16 love.
In this passage Christians are called, “the sons of God.” Added in some translations are the words, “And that we are.”
We may be frowned upon or belittled by the world because that is the reception the world gave to Jesus. Jesus told His followers, “If they have done these things to the green tree, what will they do to the dry.” Regardless of treatment of believers by the world we are forever the children of God.
Monday, September 11, 2017
The Proof is in the Pudding
“If ye know that He is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of Him.” (I John 2:29)
The Gnostics believed that it did not matter what the body or the flesh did. All that mattered to God was the soul or Spirit. God looked on the heart only. That kind of thinking is evidenced by the shallow Christianity of many professing Christians in our culture.
God is righteous. If a person is born again he is clothed with the righteousness of Christ. His life is changed as evidenced outwardly by his righteous deeds. When Zacchaeus came down from the sycamore tree and met Jesus he said, “Behold Lord, the half of my goods I give to feed the poor; and if I have taken anything from any man by false accusation, I restore him four-fold.” (Luke 19:8) His actions gave evidence to the change in his life. In the next chapter of this epistle, in I John 3:8, we read, “He that keeps on sinning is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning.”
The Gnostics claimed to have more knowledge than everyone else. But, like so many modern day cults they totally missed the truth at this point. I am reminded of a song that says, “What a wonderful change in my life has been wrought, since Jesus came into my heart!”
The Gnostics believed that it did not matter what the body or the flesh did. All that mattered to God was the soul or Spirit. God looked on the heart only. That kind of thinking is evidenced by the shallow Christianity of many professing Christians in our culture.
God is righteous. If a person is born again he is clothed with the righteousness of Christ. His life is changed as evidenced outwardly by his righteous deeds. When Zacchaeus came down from the sycamore tree and met Jesus he said, “Behold Lord, the half of my goods I give to feed the poor; and if I have taken anything from any man by false accusation, I restore him four-fold.” (Luke 19:8) His actions gave evidence to the change in his life. In the next chapter of this epistle, in I John 3:8, we read, “He that keeps on sinning is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning.”
The Gnostics claimed to have more knowledge than everyone else. But, like so many modern day cults they totally missed the truth at this point. I am reminded of a song that says, “What a wonderful change in my life has been wrought, since Jesus came into my heart!”
Saturday, September 9, 2017
Be Ready
“And now, little children, abide in Him; that, when He shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before Him at His coming.” (I John 2:28)
John’s companion, Simon Peter, had been told by our Lord to “feed my Sheep.” It is the message every preacher or pastor is admonished to do. We are not to “beat” the sheep. Nor, are we to “fleece” the sheep, nor "drive" the sheep. The shepherd is to feed, tend and lead the sheep.
John has not scolded the sheep in the first two chapters of this epistle. He has fed them, warned them of seducers who would lead them astray. He has been a loving shepherd, like his Lord before him. He tenderly addresses them as little children, “My little dear ones.”
Many people are not ready for the Lord’s return. There are those who have not received the gift of God and are lost, unprepared for eternity. There are saved people who are always shirking their responsibility, living for self and unconcerned about the Lord’s return. They will be ashamed when Jesus appears. John's readers, including you and me, must take the admonitions in this epistle seriously and not be ashamed when Jesus appears.
John’s companion, Simon Peter, had been told by our Lord to “feed my Sheep.” It is the message every preacher or pastor is admonished to do. We are not to “beat” the sheep. Nor, are we to “fleece” the sheep, nor "drive" the sheep. The shepherd is to feed, tend and lead the sheep.
John has not scolded the sheep in the first two chapters of this epistle. He has fed them, warned them of seducers who would lead them astray. He has been a loving shepherd, like his Lord before him. He tenderly addresses them as little children, “My little dear ones.”
Many people are not ready for the Lord’s return. There are those who have not received the gift of God and are lost, unprepared for eternity. There are saved people who are always shirking their responsibility, living for self and unconcerned about the Lord’s return. They will be ashamed when Jesus appears. John's readers, including you and me, must take the admonitions in this epistle seriously and not be ashamed when Jesus appears.
Friday, September 8, 2017
Is It in the Bible?
“But the anointing which ye have received of Him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in Him.” (I John 2:27)
The late, John Philips, told of one of his friends being approached by someone who claimed that Joseph Smith was a latter day prophet and that the “Book of Mormon” was a second New Testament. Dr. Phillips’ friend asked the man with those claims, “What does he prophesy? If it’s in the Bible, I don’t need it; and if it’s not in the Bible, I don’t want it.” (1)
When a Christian, whether a new babe in Christ or a seasoned veteran, stays in the Word and abides in Christ he has all he needs. When we become believers the Holy Spirit takes up residence within. We have the same anointing which the first century Christians to whom John is writing.
When reading your Bible, pray that the Holy Spirit would give you understanding. Don’t fall for something new.
1. John Phillips, “Exploring the Epistles of John,” Kregel Publications, Grand Rapids, Michigan. 2003, Page 75
The late, John Philips, told of one of his friends being approached by someone who claimed that Joseph Smith was a latter day prophet and that the “Book of Mormon” was a second New Testament. Dr. Phillips’ friend asked the man with those claims, “What does he prophesy? If it’s in the Bible, I don’t need it; and if it’s not in the Bible, I don’t want it.” (1)
When a Christian, whether a new babe in Christ or a seasoned veteran, stays in the Word and abides in Christ he has all he needs. When we become believers the Holy Spirit takes up residence within. We have the same anointing which the first century Christians to whom John is writing.
When reading your Bible, pray that the Holy Spirit would give you understanding. Don’t fall for something new.
1. John Phillips, “Exploring the Epistles of John,” Kregel Publications, Grand Rapids, Michigan. 2003, Page 75
Thursday, September 7, 2017
Don't be Led Astray
"These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you." (1 John 2:26)
When I think of the word, "seduce," I think of temptation. I think of a fish being attracted to an artificial lure on the end of someone's fishing line. I think of that fish grabbing the lure only to discover he is in a frying pan being prepared for someone's supper. The work means, "To persuade to disobedience." It means to lead astray by persuasion of false promises, much as a young virgin being led astray by false promises of a handsome, young man.
The Bible says that, "evil men and seducers shall proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived." (II Timothy 3:13, NASB) John says that he wrote to them to warn them not to be led astray by seduction. It is the seduction of false doctrine about which he has been writing. It is written for us today, also.
Jude tells us of false teachers who have turned the grace of God into a license to sin. We have "artificial lures" among us today, attempting to lead churches down an ungodly path of false doctrine. They are "seducers."
One radio preacher from the past often gave his listeners this word in closing: "Walk with the King today and be a blessing." Amen.
When I think of the word, "seduce," I think of temptation. I think of a fish being attracted to an artificial lure on the end of someone's fishing line. I think of that fish grabbing the lure only to discover he is in a frying pan being prepared for someone's supper. The work means, "To persuade to disobedience." It means to lead astray by persuasion of false promises, much as a young virgin being led astray by false promises of a handsome, young man.
The Bible says that, "evil men and seducers shall proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived." (II Timothy 3:13, NASB) John says that he wrote to them to warn them not to be led astray by seduction. It is the seduction of false doctrine about which he has been writing. It is written for us today, also.
Jude tells us of false teachers who have turned the grace of God into a license to sin. We have "artificial lures" among us today, attempting to lead churches down an ungodly path of false doctrine. They are "seducers."
One radio preacher from the past often gave his listeners this word in closing: "Walk with the King today and be a blessing." Amen.
Wednesday, September 6, 2017
Standing on the Promises
“And this is the promise that He hath promised us, even eternal life.” (I John 2:25)
I love the old hymn, “Standing on the Promises.” Someone else came out with a song in the 1980’s, “You can’t Stand on the Promises if You don’t know What they Are.” In his prayer of dedication of the temple, Solomon said, “Blessed be the Lord, that hath given rest unto His people Israel, according to all that He promised: there hath not failed one word of all His good promise, which He promised by the hand of Moses His servant.” (I Kings 8:56)
God made promises to Noah, Abraham, Moses and the list goes on. Some have counted the promises in the Bible as 3,573 while others have the number at 7,487. The number of promises is not the point. Whatever the number is, not one has failed. He has made promises to all of us.
Our text records one of the greatest promises, if it is not the greatest of all. He promised that, “Whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) You can trust Jesus for eternal life, one of the many promises He has never failed to keep.
I love the old hymn, “Standing on the Promises.” Someone else came out with a song in the 1980’s, “You can’t Stand on the Promises if You don’t know What they Are.” In his prayer of dedication of the temple, Solomon said, “Blessed be the Lord, that hath given rest unto His people Israel, according to all that He promised: there hath not failed one word of all His good promise, which He promised by the hand of Moses His servant.” (I Kings 8:56)
God made promises to Noah, Abraham, Moses and the list goes on. Some have counted the promises in the Bible as 3,573 while others have the number at 7,487. The number of promises is not the point. Whatever the number is, not one has failed. He has made promises to all of us.
Our text records one of the greatest promises, if it is not the greatest of all. He promised that, “Whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) You can trust Jesus for eternal life, one of the many promises He has never failed to keep.
Tuesday, September 5, 2017
God Dwelt Among Us
“Let that therefore abide in you which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father.” (I John 2:24)
We Christians have the unique privilege of abiding in Christ. It is the vine/branch relationship which Jesus taught His disciples in the fifteenth chapter of John’s gospel. We must “abide” in Him to be fruitful, just as a branch in the vineyard must abide in the vine to bear fruit.
This is the teaching they heard at the beginning of their walk of faith and salvation. It is eternal, changeless truth which John taught when he said, “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…” (John 1:1-3, 14)
We cannot abide in one without abiding in the other. Continue in the eternal truth you heard from the beginning. It has not changed.
We Christians have the unique privilege of abiding in Christ. It is the vine/branch relationship which Jesus taught His disciples in the fifteenth chapter of John’s gospel. We must “abide” in Him to be fruitful, just as a branch in the vineyard must abide in the vine to bear fruit.
This is the teaching they heard at the beginning of their walk of faith and salvation. It is eternal, changeless truth which John taught when he said, “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…” (John 1:1-3, 14)
We cannot abide in one without abiding in the other. Continue in the eternal truth you heard from the beginning. It has not changed.
Monday, September 4, 2017
Inseparable
“Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: but he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also.” (I John 2:23)
When my wife and I moved into the parsonage of our first church one of the farmers said, “Now, you feel free to go to my milk barn and from the refigerated milk tank help yourself. You may skim some cream off the top. Or, you may open the valve near the bottom of the tank if you want milk only. But, if you want milk and cream turn on the agitator a few minutes and lit it mix the milk and cream together. Help yourself.” That was a very generous offer which we deeply appreciated.
We may separate milk from cream, or wheat from chaff, but the Bible indicates that the Father and Son are inseparable even though there are folks who claim they love the Father but not the Son, or they love the Son but not the Father. Jesus made the statement, “I and my Father are one.” (John 10:30) He told Philip, “He that hath seen me hath seen the Father.” (John 14:9)
Part of the charges that were laid against Jesus and resulted in His crucifixion was that He made Himself equal with God.
“Oh, precious cross, Oh, glorious crown! Oh, resurrection day! When Christ the Lord from Heaven comes down, and bears my soul away!”
When my wife and I moved into the parsonage of our first church one of the farmers said, “Now, you feel free to go to my milk barn and from the refigerated milk tank help yourself. You may skim some cream off the top. Or, you may open the valve near the bottom of the tank if you want milk only. But, if you want milk and cream turn on the agitator a few minutes and lit it mix the milk and cream together. Help yourself.” That was a very generous offer which we deeply appreciated.
We may separate milk from cream, or wheat from chaff, but the Bible indicates that the Father and Son are inseparable even though there are folks who claim they love the Father but not the Son, or they love the Son but not the Father. Jesus made the statement, “I and my Father are one.” (John 10:30) He told Philip, “He that hath seen me hath seen the Father.” (John 14:9)
Part of the charges that were laid against Jesus and resulted in His crucifixion was that He made Himself equal with God.
“Oh, precious cross, Oh, glorious crown! Oh, resurrection day! When Christ the Lord from Heaven comes down, and bears my soul away!”
Sunday, September 3, 2017
Who is this Man Jesus?
“Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son.” (I John 2:22)
Jesus asked His disciples, “Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?” Their response is astounding. “Some say you are one of the Old Testament prophets.” But who is Jesus. Ask that question today and the answers will be just as astounding as then. “You are a great miracle worker, a good example, a great teacher, a prophet alongside Mohammed or even a figment of men’s imaginations.
But Jesus pinned them down. “Whom say ye that I am? What is you personal response?” Peter answered, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Then Jesus said, “My Father in heaven revealed this to you.” The testimony of the Father and the Son agree. Peter’s confession is the acceptable response.
The Bible declares that the person who denies that Jesus is the Christ is a liar. That person is denying the testimony of both Father and Son and is a liar.
What is your response to the question Jesus posed to the disciples?
Jesus asked His disciples, “Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?” Their response is astounding. “Some say you are one of the Old Testament prophets.” But who is Jesus. Ask that question today and the answers will be just as astounding as then. “You are a great miracle worker, a good example, a great teacher, a prophet alongside Mohammed or even a figment of men’s imaginations.
But Jesus pinned them down. “Whom say ye that I am? What is you personal response?” Peter answered, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Then Jesus said, “My Father in heaven revealed this to you.” The testimony of the Father and the Son agree. Peter’s confession is the acceptable response.
The Bible declares that the person who denies that Jesus is the Christ is a liar. That person is denying the testimony of both Father and Son and is a liar.
What is your response to the question Jesus posed to the disciples?
Saturday, September 2, 2017
No Lie is of the Truth
“I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because you know it, and that no lie is of the truth.” (I John 2:21)
There are millions of people around the world who have never heard the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. They have never heard the message of the birth of Jesus, His sinless life, His cruel crucifixion on the cross, His death, burial and resurrection. They know nothing of a new life in Christ.
John’s purpose in this epistle was not to introduce his readers to the truth. Rather, he was writing because they knew the truth and he was warning them not to be led astray with a lie that some cult had manufactured which was promoted as a new and better revelation.
Jude in his little epistle states that believers “should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.” (Jude 1:3) The truth once delivered to the saints is sufficient for every generation, from the days of Jesus until His return. That exhortation continues to stand today. Our day is filled with false teachers and false teachings. We must be on guard to stay with the clear teaching of the Bible.
There are millions of people around the world who have never heard the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. They have never heard the message of the birth of Jesus, His sinless life, His cruel crucifixion on the cross, His death, burial and resurrection. They know nothing of a new life in Christ.
John’s purpose in this epistle was not to introduce his readers to the truth. Rather, he was writing because they knew the truth and he was warning them not to be led astray with a lie that some cult had manufactured which was promoted as a new and better revelation.
Jude in his little epistle states that believers “should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.” (Jude 1:3) The truth once delivered to the saints is sufficient for every generation, from the days of Jesus until His return. That exhortation continues to stand today. Our day is filled with false teachers and false teachings. We must be on guard to stay with the clear teaching of the Bible.
Friday, September 1, 2017
Unction
“But ye have unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.” (I John 2:20)
In John’s day there were those who thought they had a private corner on the truth, that if they had not discovered some truth it wasn’t worth knowing.
They are still with us today, introducing some latter day truth, having special revelations from God and having been told of God to share that new truth which is not in the Bible.
John could remember that night when the disciples were gathered around the table with their Master. He told them of the coming of the Holy Spirit who would live in them, who would guide them into all truth and reveal things to come. The blessed Holy Spirit anointed John’s readers and they needed no new revelation. Nor do we need some extra Biblical revelation.
It isn’t that new Christians suddenly have a doctorate in theology. But, all Christians have a Teacher, the Holy Spirit, living within them and guiding their understanding in the Word of God.
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