False teaching was only one of the numerous challenges faced by early Christians. The Mosaic law had been perfected by fulfillment of prophecy as Jesus lived, died and was resurrected as part of God’s perfect plan.
The law would now be labeled “the law of love,” taught by Jesus himself when He walked as flesh among the living. To love one another as God loves us, this is the teaching of the apostles.
“16 By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” (1 John 3:16)
The love of God is seen through the sacrifice made on the cross by the risen savior of man, Yeshua, the Christ. Because He laid down His life for us, so, by faith we could live for all eternity, all God’s children are called to pour out an abundance of brotherly love onto fellow believers.
“17 But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?” (1 John 3:17)
John calls on believers to display generosity as Christ Himself did when He walked among the living, giving not only his belongings but also His life. Christ gave His life so the hopeless could, by faith in Him, live forever.
“18 My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. 19 And by this we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before Him.” (1 John 3:18-19)
The apostle encourages believers to walk the talk, and conduct ourselves in the image of Yeshua. As each Christian goes about his and her daily lives, there should be no doubt we belong to Yahweh, the almighty creator and God of Israel. Those who are blessed to follow in Christ’s footsteps will be rewarded with peace of mind, and a joyful heart, the wages of righteousness and obedience.
“20 For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things.” (1 John 3:20)
Those who transgress the Lord and deny Him of glory will find sorrow lurking in their hearts. Because He is all loving, and all knowing, God will pour out comfort onto those who seek His courage and wisdom. Our heavenly Father will never abandon us.
“21 Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence toward God. 22 And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight.” (1 John 3:21)
John commends those who walk in Jesus’ footsteps with confidence, and with a cheerful heart for God. Not of our own works, but through His mercy and grace, the offerings of the obedient that are pleasing to God will be rewarded.
“23 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.” (1 John 3:23)
John, acting on God’s behalf, calls on believers to proclaim Jesus as Lord and risen Christ, and to follow in our savior’s footsteps and pour out His love onto fellow Christians in need. This is the law of Christ, which is love. Let us pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant John,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
