The Message of 1 John
The First Epistle of John (1 John) is a profound letter that addresses key themes of the Christian faith. John, the Apostle of Love, writes to a community of believers, emphasizing the importance of fellowship with God, love among one another, and the need to guard against false teachings.
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Main Themes of 1 John
Fellowship with God and Light vs. Darkness
John emphasizes that true Christians live in fellowship with God and must stay away from the darkness of sin:
“If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.” (1 John 1:6)
Jesus Christ – Our Advocate and Redeemer
Jesus is our mediator before God. Whoever believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins:
“And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” (1 John 2:1)
Love as Evidence of Faith
True love for God is reflected in love for one another:
“He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.” (1 John 4:8)
Guarding Against False Teachings (Antichrists)
John warns against false teachers who deny the divine nature of Jesus:
“For many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh.” (1 John 4:3)
Faith as the Foundation of Victory Over the World
Whoever believes in Christ overcomes the world:
“For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.” (1 John 5:4)
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Central Message
The First Epistle of John encourages believers to remain in the truth, live in love, and guard against false teachings. John reminds us that true Christianity is not merely spoken words but is demonstrated through lived-out love and a sanctified life.
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Final Thought
The letter concludes with a strong reminder:
“Little children, keep yourselves from idols.” (1 John 5:21)
This means that nothing should take God’s place in our lives. Whoever abides in Christ has eternal life.
In short: 1 John teaches us that true discipleship consists of love, truth, and faithfulness to Jesus Christ.
March 18, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Johannes Chapter 1
1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;
2 (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)
3 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.
4 And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.
5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:
7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
The First Epistle of John begins with a profound explanation of the foundation of the Christian faith: fellowship with God and with one another. John writes as an eyewitness of Jesus Christ and emphasizes the reality of divine revelation. This chapter highlights the light of God, the necessity of honest confession of our sins, and the cleansing through the blood of Christ. It calls us to walk in the light of God and live in truth rather than remain in the darkness of sin.
Commentary
1.The Foundation of Christian Fellowship (Verses 1-4)
John begins with a powerful affirmation that Jesus Christ was truly present in the flesh on earth. He emphasizes that he has heard, seen, and touched Him. This statement is crucial because John counters the false teachings of his time that denied the incarnation of Christ.
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Eternal life is revealed in Christ (v. 2): Jesus has existed with God from eternity and has now been made visible to mankind.
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Proclamation leads to fellowship (v. 3): The purpose of this message is that believers may have fellowship with God and with one another.
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Joy as the goal of faith (v. 4): John desires that believers’ joy may be complete—a joy that comes from the assurance of communion with God.
Application:
Christian faith is not merely an intellectual confession but a personal, experiential relationship with Christ that leads to fellowship with other believers.
2.Life in the Light (Verses 5-10)
John emphasizes that God is light (v. 5). Light represents purity, truth, and holiness, while darkness symbolizes sin and separation from God.
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Truth vs. Lies (v. 6-7): Those who claim to have fellowship with God but live in sin deceive themselves. True fellowship with God is demonstrated by “walking in the light.”
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Cleansing through Christ (v. 7): The blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin—this is the central hope of the Christian faith.
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The necessity of confessing sin (v. 8-9): No one can claim to be without sin. The path to forgiveness lies in honest confession. God is faithful and just to forgive and cleanse us when we admit our guilt.
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The danger of self-deception (v. 10): Anyone who claims to be sinless makes God a liar, for His Word clearly states that all people need forgiveness.
Application:
A true Christian walks in the light, confesses sins, and experiences God’s grace. Denying one’s guilt leads to darkness, but honest confession brings forgiveness and healing.
Summary
This chapter presents three central truths:
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Jesus Christ is the revelation of God’s life – John testifies as an eyewitness and proclaims the Gospel to bring others joy and fellowship with God.
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God is light – Those who claim to know God but live in sin deceive themselves. True fellowship with God means walking in the light.
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Forgiveness is possible through the blood of Christ – We are all sinners, but when we confess our sins, God is faithful to forgive and cleanse us.
These teachings call us to authentic faith, honest living, and genuine fellowship with God and fellow believers.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 9—The Work and the Life
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 9 describes God’s selfless love as the source of all life, light, and blessing. This principle of selfless devotion is evident throughout creation, but most especially in the life of Jesus Christ. His existence was marked by sacrifice—he lived to save humanity and set an example of love and service. His followers should adopt the same attitude: a life that does not seek self-fulfillment but instead places the well-being of others at its center. This service is not only a calling but also the path to true happiness and spiritual growth.
Commentary
1.The Source of All Life and Blessing
God is the origin of life and blessing, and everything that exists receives light and joy from Him. Just as sunlight and flowing water nourish all living things, so too should humans receive and share God’s blessings. True fulfillment in life does not come from seeking personal gain but from sharing God’s love with others.
2.Christ as the Ultimate Example of Service
Jesus Christ lived a completely selfless life. His greatest concern was to save fallen humanity, even at the cost of suffering and sacrifice. Likewise, angels were not created for themselves but to serve others. The very essence of heaven is not selfishness but sacrifice and love. Those who reject this mindset separate themselves from God.
3.The Impact of God’s Love in a Person
When Christ’s love dwells in a person’s heart, it cannot remain hidden. It radiates outward and influences all who come into contact with them. A Christian’s life should be like a fresh spring in the desert—bringing refreshment and life to those in need.
4.The Joy of Serving Others
The deepest expression of love for Christ is the desire to help others. This was the principle by which Jesus lived. His life was not one of comfort and ease but of tireless service. Those who follow Him will not focus on their own desires but on the well-being of others.
5.The Importance of Sacrifice
A true disciple of Jesus is willing to make sacrifices so that others may experience the blessing of salvation. This sacrifice can take the form of time, resources, or personal dedication. Those who have received God’s grace cannot keep it to themselves—they will feel compelled to share it with others.
6.Communion with Christ Through Service
Serving others not only brings blessings to the recipients but also to the one who serves. God could have entrusted His work of salvation to angels, but He chose to involve people so that their faith could be strengthened. Anyone who dedicates themselves to God’s service will grow deeper in their experience of His love and truth.
7.The Necessity of Spiritual Growth Through Service
Christian growth does not happen through passive receiving but through active giving. Those who do not live out their faith will lose it. But those who carry out God’s mission and serve others will grow spiritually. This is a divine principle: spiritual strength comes through active engagement.
8.Every Christian is Called to Serve
The Church of Christ is called to bring the Good News to the world. This task is not only for missionaries or preachers but for every believer. Each person can be a witness for Christ through their work, behavior, and relationships. Even those who cannot travel to distant lands can still contribute through prayer, support, and serving in their immediate surroundings.
9.Imitating Christ in Everyday Life
Jesus spent most of His earthly life engaged in everyday work as a carpenter. He demonstrated that every job and every activity can be an opportunity to serve God. Even a simple worker can bear witness to Christ through faithfulness and integrity. Everyone can be a light to those around them and lead others to faith.
10.The Blessing of Selfless Service
Many people believe they are not qualified to work for God’s kingdom, but God does not only call the most talented—He calls every believer. Even the simplest tasks, when done with love, are valuable in God’s kingdom. Those who are faithful in small things will also be entrusted with greater things.
11.No Excuses – Everyone Can Serve
Many wait for a “special opportunity” to serve God, but this is a mistake. The best opportunity is the present moment—by living faithfully, showing love in daily life, and being open to the needs of others. Those who make themselves available to Christ will experience how He uses them and how their lives bear fruit.
12.The Hidden Influence of Service
Some people do not see the visible results of their efforts and feel useless. But God sees everything and will bring hidden deeds to light. Often, the effects of our actions will only be revealed in eternity. Those who remain faithful will ultimately see that no selfless act of service was in vain.
Summary
Chapter 9 teaches that true joy and fulfillment are found in selfless service. God is the source of all blessings, and He desires for us to pass these blessings on to others. Jesus is the highest example of a life of dedication and service. Those who follow Him will not live for themselves but for the good of others.
God has given us the privilege of participating in His work of salvation. This is not only a duty but also a blessing for us. Serving others strengthens our faith, brings us closer to Christ, and fills us with deep joy. Every Christian is called to be a light to others through their work, testimony, and love.
The greatest growth in faith does not come from passivity but from active participation in God’s work. Those who share God’s blessings with others will be blessed themselves. But those who remain spiritually inactive will lose their faith. Therefore, this chapter calls us not to wait but to act immediately and wholeheartedly for Christ—whether in our own homes, churches, or the world.
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