By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and obey his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome. For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. 1 John 5:2-4
In preparation for leading Sunday school at my church on 20OCT, I dig into our text for this Sunday, 1 John 5:1-4. For my preparation this week, I lean on DesiringGod.com's Look at the Book video for this text and the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary volume for 1-3 John. For this morning, I first study the text without any commentary aids. Here John talks about being born again and how this produces fruit - fruit also referenced in Galatians 5, primarily love - love of God and of others. Love of God and of others is commanded (see also Matthew 22:37-40 and Exodus 20) and obedience to these commands is not seen as burdensome by believers (v3). This is because we have the Holy Spirit with and in us working in our lives and just as Jesus overcame death and the world, we also can overcome the world. Believers, recognize and acknowledge this power to overcome the world and live boldly!
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for giving us the Holy Spirit so that we can live boldly in obedience and in particular loving You and others boldly. You love us in ways that we cannot imagine, including willingly going to the cross to atone for the sins of all of humanity. Thank You Jesus! Of course I am not deserving as my sin continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
