March 22, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Johannes Chapter 5
1 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.
2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments.
3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?
6 This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.
7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.
8 And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one.
9 If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son.
10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.
11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:
15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.
16 If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.
17 All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death.
18 We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not.
19 And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness.
20 And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.
21 Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
The First Epistle of John culminates in chapter 5 with a powerful summary of the Christian life: faith, love, obedience, victory, testimony, prayer, and assurance. John writes with fatherly warmth to strengthen believers. It’s about the victory of faith in a world that lies in wickedness—and the gift of eternal life in Jesus Christ.
Commentary
1. Faith as the Source of Victory (Verses 1–5)
Faith in Jesus as the Messiah shows that one is born of God. True love for God is shown by keeping His commandments—which are not burdensome when love and grace are active in the heart. Our faith is not merely a confession, but a power that overcomes the world.
2.God’s Triple Testimony (Verses 6–12)
Water (baptism), blood (the cross), and the Spirit testify that Jesus is the Son of God. God’s testimony is greater than that of men. Whoever believes in the Son has life—not only in the future but already now.
3.Prayer with Assurance (Verses 13–17)
John writes so that believers may have assurance of eternal life. He shows that those who ask according to God’s will are heard. There is power in intercessory prayer—though there are limits when people consciously and persistently reject God.
4.Preservation and Knowledge (Verses 18–21)
Those born of God do not live in sin, but are protected. The world lies in wickedness—but we belong to God. Jesus Christ is not just the messenger, but the true God and eternal life. John closes with a solemn warning: “Keep yourselves from idols.”
Summary
Faith in Jesus as the Son of God is the source of life, love, and victory. God’s own testimony affirms Jesus as the Savior of the world. Whoever trusts in Him has eternal life. Prayer is powerful, especially when aligned with God’s will. God protects His children, and in Christ we recognize the truth itself. The letter ends with a call to faithfulness: away from idols, close to God.
Message for Us Today
“Whoever has the Son has life”—this assurance should fill our hearts.
In a world full of doubt, distraction, and uncertainty, John calls us to stay focused: Jesus Christ is our life. The world may be loud, chaotic, and confusing—but the faith that rests on Jesus carries and conquers.
Let us remain in God’s love, trust in His commandments, and approach Him in prayer—boldly and confidently. For God hears—and God protects.
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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