Love that Transforms: Walking in the Light of Christ's Love
Notes
Transcript
Good afternoon. I hope that everyone is having a fantastic weekend. We are going to continue in our series on 1 John and today we will be looking at 1 John chapter three verses eleven through twenty-four.
Before we get started though I want us to picture this passage and what we are going to discover together today. To do this I want you to imagine a majestic tree standing tall and strong, its branches reaching toward the sky, adorned with vibrant leaves that dance in the gentle breeze. As we gaze upon this awe-inspiring sight, we are reminded of the profound truths found in the letters of John. Within todays passage, John weaves together the threads of belief, love, and assurance, inviting us to understand what it truly means to live in God.
And so just as a tree draws life from its roots, we are called to be deeply rooted in our relationship with God. John presents a compelling case for the inseparable nature of both belief and love, shedding light on the transformative power of these foundational principles. Through vivid imagery and practical exhortations, John reveals the essence of living in God and offers assurance to believers.
In the following verses, we will find the significance of belief in the name of Jesus Christ and the imperative to love one another. We will uncover John's insights on the interplay between faith, action, and genuine love, all while considering the vital role of the Holy Spirit in providing assurance to believers.
To illuminate the idea of this passage, let us envision a majestic tree that not only draws life from its roots but also offers shelter, nourishment, and beauty to those around it. Each aspect of the tree serves as a metaphor for the concepts we will find today: our belief in the name of Jesus Christ, is represented by the tree's life giving roots; our love for one another, is symbolized by the tree's branches reaching out in compassion and care; and the assurance of God's presence, is found in the shade and shelter that the tree provides.
Today I hope to help us see the connection between belief, love, and assurance in our lives as followers of Jesus Christ.
John begins by reminding the readers of the message they have heard from the beginning and in verse eleven he writes.
For this is the message that you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.
This message refers to the teachings they received when they first encountered the gospel. It includes the command of the Lord Jesus Himself that those who believe in Him should love one another. This command to love one another is emphasized throughout the Letters of John, likely drawing from Jesus' instructions during the Last Supper in the Gospel of John.
Johns call to love one another contains both negative and positive aspects. We will see and discuss the negative when he warns us against being like Cain, who murdered his brother, and declares that anyone who hates his brother is a murderer. This highlights the seriousness of harboring hatred and animosity towards fellow believers. One the positive side of things, John elaborates on what it means to love one another in verses 16-18.
In this verse, John sets the stage for the exploration of genuine love as a defining characteristic of those who belong to the truth. It is a reminder of the foundational commandment to love one another, which should guide the attitudes and actions of believers in their relationships with fellow believers.
Then in verse twelve John writes,
We should not be like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother’s righteous.
In verse 12, John calls us not to be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. This reference to Cain alludes to the account in Genesis 4:1-25, which describes the story of Cain and Abel, the sons of Adam and Eve. Cain became angry when his offering was not accepted by the Lord, while Abel's offering was received favorably. In his anger, Cain plotted and carried out the tragic act of murdering his brother.
The rejection of Cain's offering in Genesis 4:6-7 suggests that his actions were deemed evil by the Lord. Prior to Cain's outburst of violence, the Lord addresses him, asking why he is angry and advising him that if he does what is right, he will be accepted. However, sin is portrayed as lurking at his door, seeking to control him. Cain is urged to master it.
John further explains why Cain murdered his brother, stating that it was because his own actions were evil, while his brother's actions were righteous. Although the Genesis account does not specify the exact nature of their actions, the Book of Hebrews sheds light on the matter. Hebrews 11:4 reflects on Genesis 4 and highlights that Abel offered a better sacrifice through faith and was commended by God. This suggests that Abel's faith distinguished him from Cain, implying that Cain lacked such faith.
By referencing the story of Cain and Abel, John emphasizes the importance of righteousness and warns against allowing evil to take root in one's heart. It serves as a cautionary example, reminding us not to follow in the footsteps of Cain, who succumbed to the influence of the evil one.
After discussing Cain’s act of murder, John shifts the focus to his readers and he warns them about the hatred that they will encounter, just like Abel encountered. And he writes.
Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you.
The phrase "do not be surprised" (mē thaumazete) is significant and is used in John 5:28 and 3:7 to introduce important statements. Here, it serves as a precursor to a solemn warning regarding the world's animosity towards believers.
In the Last Supper discourses of the Gospel of John, Jesus teaches his disciples about the necessity of loving one another (John 15:9–17), which is immediately followed by his teaching that they will face hostility and hatred from "the world" (John 15:18–25). Within the context of John 15, these teachings serve to prepare the disciples for the challenges they will encounter after Jesus' departure, including hostility from certain unbelieving Jews.
However, the overall context of 1 John differs from that of the Gospel of John. In 1 John, the conflict faced by the readers stems from those who were once part of the Christian community—this group who had left the church. So, why does John warn the readers about the world's hatred? Furthermore, who or what does the term "the world" (kosmos) refer to in the context of 1 John?
The word "world” appears 23 times in 1 John, and its meaning varies depending on the context. However, in several instances, including this verse, it signifies the unbelieving world—the people who oppose God and believers, and who are under the influence of the evil one (3:1; 4:5 [3×]; 5:19). Yet, emphasizing the world's hatred towards the readers seems incompatible with the main thrust of the letter.
To resolve this apparent dilemma, it is essential to recognize that John now associates the secessionists with the world. These individuals are referred to as the "antichrists" who departed from the Christian community because they did not truly belong to it (2:18–19). They are the "false prophets" who have gone out into the world, embodying the spirit of the antichrist, which already exists in the world (4:1–3). The secessionists are "from the world" and therefore speak from the world's perspective, and the world listens to them (4:5). However, John assures his readers that they are "from God" and have overcome the secessionists because the Spirit of truth within them is greater than the spirit of falsehood that is in the world (4:4–6).
John's warning about the world's hatred should be understood primarily in terms of the opposition of the secessionists toward the readers from whom they separated. The secessionists, as representatives of the world, direct their animosity towards the church. By acknowledging this context, John provides insight into the challenges his readers may face and seeks to prepare them for the opposition that they will encounter.
After a brief digression in verse 13, John returns to the main theme of mutual love as a characteristic of true children of God. And in verse 14 he writes.
We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers. Whoever does not love abides in death.
While the mark remains the same, which is the love of fellow believers, the status of those who love is described differently—they are now described as having "passed from death to life."
This expression, "we have passed from death to life", bears a close resemblance to a statement in the Gospel of John (John 5:24) where passing from death to life is synonymous with escaping condemnation and obtaining eternal life. In the Gospel of John, eternal life is defined as knowing God (John 17:3), who is both the source of life and the one who grants life to those who come to Him through Jesus Christ. Given the parallels between 1 John and the Fourth Gospel, it is justified to interpret the statement in 1 John 3:14 in light of its parallel in John 5:24. So, love for fellow believers serves as the identifying mark of those who have escaped condemnation and come to know God through Jesus Christ.
Now, the phrase "because we love our brothers" employs a present tense form of the verb "to love," I know that I keep making this point. But it is very important to understanding this letter. John is emphasizing the ongoing nature of love for fellow believers as the distinguishing characteristic of those who have passed from death to life. Against the backdrop of Johns Gospel and in response to the secessionists' claims, John now asserts that it is through their love for fellow believers that his readers can be confident in their knowledge of God and experience of eternal life. The true knowledge of God and experience of eternal life belong to those who have remained in the community of true believers, not to the secessionists. John implies that the ongoing lack of love exhibited by the secessionists towards the members of the christian community reveals that they have not genuinely passed from death to life. They remain in spiritual death, lacking knowledge of God, and failing to experience the eternal life that comes with knowing Him.
For John, the concept of "eternal life" is closely associated with Jesus Christ. He identifies eternal life as a promise to those who believe in Him (2:25). Furthermore, eternal life is found in Christ, the Son (5:11), who is described as the true God and eternal life (5:20). The life they possess in Christ was present with the Father from the beginning and was manifested in the person of Jesus Christ to eyewitnesses (1:2). Those who believe in Christ can have assurance of eternal life (5:13) because they have the Son, and possessing the Son is equal to possessing eternal life (5:12). According to John, eternal life is not merely an extension of our earthly existence; rather, it is intimately tied to having a relationship with the Son, Jesus Christ, as He is the very essence of eternal life.
Verse 15 builds upon the statement in verse 14, “Anyone who does not love remains in death,” by emphasizing the severe consequences of lacking love for fellow believers. John writes,
Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.
This appears to be an allusion to the story of Cain's murder of his brother Abel, which John has already referred to as a negative example in verse 11. Another possibility that some hold to is that John is drawing from the teachings of Jesus, when He proclaimed that those who harbor anger towards others are subject to judgment similar to that of murderers (Matthew 5:21, parallel). I believe the best understanding comes from the context of the passage, which would mean that this is a reference to Cain’s murder of his brother Abel.
Continuing, John asserts, "And you know that no murderer has eternal life in him." The purpose of this verse seems to be to intensify the message conveyed in verse 14: anyone who lacks love remains in a state of spiritual death. Such a person is compared to a murderer, and it is evident that individuals consumed by murderous intentions do not possess eternal life within them. Both in verse 14 and verse 15, John uses present tense forms of the verbs when describing those who do not love or those who hate, this highlights that the ongoing failure to love or the ongoing presence of hatred signifies those who remain in spiritual death and, consequently, do not possess eternal life.
John underscores the significance of love as a defining characteristic of true children of God. Those who lack love and harbor hatred exhibit traits that are incompatible with the life-giving nature of God and the eternal life that comes through Jesus Christ.
Verse 16 expands on the nature of love and emphasizes the obligation placed upon believers to practice love. John writes,
By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.
True believers are described here as individuals who understand the essence of love because they recognize that Jesus Christ sacrificed his own life for their sake. The love exemplified in Christ's death is a selfless love that extends itself for the benefit of others. When John refers to Christ laying down his life for us, he is drawing from the teachings of Jesus as presented in the Gospel of John. In that gospel, Jesus describes himself as the Good Shepherd who willingly lays down his life for his sheep (John 10:11, 15). Jesus emphasizes that he freely chooses to lay down his life and that no one can take it from him (John 10:17, 18).
The logical outcome of Christ laying down his life for believers is that believers ought to lay down their lives for one another. This connection is also made in the Last Supper discourses of the Gospel of John. Jesus instructs his disciples, "Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends. You are my friends..." (John 15:12–14). Just as Christ loved us and willingly sacrificed his life, believers are called to demonstrate the same kind of love for one another. John applies this concept in a practical and tangible manner in the subsequent verses.
Verse 16 highlights that the ultimate act of love is displayed in Jesus Christ laying down his life for believers. Understanding this sacrificial love, believers are called to emulate it by being willing to lay down their own lives for the sake of their brothers and sisters in the faith.
Now, in verses 17 and 18 John addresses the practical application of love in the lives of believers. John shifts the focus from extreme self-sacrifice to more tangible acts of love and he writes,
But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?
Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.
John poses a hypothetical situation: If someone has material possessions or worldly goods and sees a fellow believer in need but closes their heart and has no pity on them, how can they claim to have the love of God within them? In light of the selfless love displayed by Christ, John emphasizes that believers should not withhold compassion from those who are in need. In fact, if they fail to show love and mercy to their brothers and sisters, they cannot genuinely possess the love of God.
The phrase "the love of God" in this verse can be understood in two ways. It could refer to love for God, aligning with the author's later statement that if someone claims to love God but hates their brother, they are a liar (1 John 4:20). In this interpretation, love for God and love for fellow believers are inseparable. Alternatively, it could mean the love that originates from God. In this case, the verse would emphasize that the love that comes from God is not present in someone who lacks compassion for those in need. Both interpretations represent genuine aspects of John's understanding of the love of God. For John the love that comes from God both generates believers' love for one another (1 John 4:19) and is expressed through their love for each other (1 John 4:20).
To illustrate the concept of loving with words but not with actions and truth, John refers to James 2:15-16. In that passage, James questions the value of offering well-wishes to a brother or sister in need without providing actual assistance. Merely expressing good intentions without taking practical steps to meet physical needs is deemed ineffective.
Verses 17 and 18 highlight the practical application of love in the lives of believers. John emphasizes the importance of not closing one's heart to the needs of others, particularly fellow believers, and instead urges acts of compassion and generosity. True love is not limited to words but is demonstrated through concrete actions and sincere concern for others.
Verses 19 and 20 continue the theme of practical love and its impact on believers’ assurance and conscience. John writes,
By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him;
for whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything.
In verse 19, John explains that the practice of genuine love towards others is a means by which believers can have assurance and confidence that they belong to the truth. By actively demonstrating love in their actions, believers confirm their identity as children of God and align themselves with the truth of God's character.
John also highlights that practicing love allows believers to set their hearts at rest in the presence of God. When believers exhibit love towards others, it brings a sense of peace and assurance in their relationship with God. It is a manifestation of their faith and aligns them with God's will.
Verse 20 addresses the internal struggle of conscience that we will at times experience. John acknowledges that there may be times when believers' hearts condemn them, possibly due to feelings of guilt or inadequacy in their love for others. However, John reassures the readers that God is greater than their hearts. In other words, God's understanding and judgment surpasses their own self-condemnation. God is fully aware of the intentions, motivations, and efforts of believers, even when their hearts may accuse or doubt them.
The emphasis here is on God's omniscience and his ability to discern the sincerity of believers' hearts. Despite any self-doubt or self-condemnation that believers may face, God's complete knowledge and understanding provide reassurance and comfort.
Verses 21 and 22 conclude this section of the passage and emphasize the importance of confidence in prayer and obedience to God's commandments. John writes.
Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God;
and whatever we ask we receive from him, because we keep his commandments and do what pleases him.
In verse 21, the author addresses the readers as “beloved” or "dear friends" and highlights the significance of having a heart that does not condemn them. When believers have confidence in their actions and motives, free from self-condemnation or guilt, they will naturally approach God with boldness and assurance. This confidence is essential in maintaining a vibrant relationship with God and engaging in effective prayer.
Verse 22 builds upon this idea by connecting confidence in prayer with obedience to God's commandments. The author states that when believers keep God's commands and do what pleases Him, they are in alignment with His will and purposes. As a result, they can approach God in prayer and expect to receive what they ask for. This does not imply that believers will receive everything they desire, but rather that their prayers are more likely to be aligned with God's will and thus receive favorable answers.
The passage emphasizes the importance of obedience and pleasing God in the context of prayer. It suggests that an obedient and righteous lifestyle enhances the effectiveness of prayer and increases the likelihood of having ones prayers answered.
Verse 23 provides a clear and concise summary of God’s commandments as understood by John. He writes.
And this is his commandment, that we believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us.
John begins by stating that God's command is twofold:
First we are to believe in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ: This command encompasses more than mere intellectual assent. Believing in the name of Jesus Christ implies a wholehearted commitment to Him, acknowledging His identity, His work, and placing trust in Him as Savior and Lord. It involves a personal, transformative faith that leads to a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Second is to love one another as He commanded us: This command echoes the teachings of Jesus Himself, who emphasized the importance of loving one another (John 13:34-35). It extends beyond superficial affection and requires selfless, sacrificial love towards fellow believers. It involves actively caring for and meeting the needs of others, as exemplified by Christ's own love.
John emphasizes the connection between these two commands. True belief in Jesus Christ leads to obedience and manifests itself in love for one another. Genuine faith is not separated from loving actions but rather expresses itself through selfless acts of kindness and compassion towards fellow believers.
This passage reinforces the idea that love for one another is a crucial expression of faith and obedience to God's commands. It highlights the inseparable link between belief in Jesus Christ and the practice of love, underscoring that love for others is an essential aspect of the Christian life.
Verse 24 serves as a concluding statement for the passage, summarizing the main point and providing assurance to the readers. We read.
Whoever keeps his commandments abides in God, and God in him. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit whom he has given us.
There are five key points in this very short verse that I want to briefly touch on that are very important to understanding the whole of the book of 1 John.
The first point is in the idea found in the phrase, “abides in God, and God in him.” John reiterates the concept of believers living in God and God living in them, which has been a recurring theme in the letter. This mutual indwelling signifies a deep, spiritual relationship between believers and God.
The second point is in the call to obedience to God’s commands. John asserts that those who obey God's commands are the ones who live in Him and have Him living in them. It emphasizes the importance of both belief in Jesus Christ and love for one another as essential expressions of true faith.
The third point is the idea that living in God is a new spiritual existence. The concept of living in God goes beyond mere adherence to commandments. It refers to a new and vibrant spiritual existence that believers experience, brought about by the Holy Spirit. John states that this spiritual life is realized through the in-dwelling of the Spirit.
The fourth point is the idea that we receive assurance through the Spirit. John introduces the role of the Holy Spirit in providing assurance to believers. By experiencing the Spirit whom God has given them, believers can know and be confident that God lives in them. The Spirit testifies to the truth about Jesus Christ and plays a crucial role in affirming their relationship with God.
The final point is about the Spirit’s testimony regarding Jesus Christ. John emphasizes that the Spirit's testimony concerning Jesus Christ is central to the assurance believers have. The Spirit bears witness to the truth about Jesus, and through believing this testimony, believers can be assured of their relationship with God.
So What?
So What?
I have only one point to make today.
And that is that we need to cultivate a deep-rooted belief in the name of Jesus Christ.
Believe In The Name ‘Jesus’
Believe In The Name ‘Jesus’
Our passage emphasizes the significance of belief in Jesus as the Son of God. We are called to nurture and strengthen our faith, anchoring ourselves in the truth of who Jesus is and what He has accomplished for us. This involves seeking a deeper understanding of His teachings, studying His Word, and developing a personal relationship with Him through prayer and meditation.
To cultivate a deep-rooted belief in the name of Jesus Christ, we must immerse ourselves in His Word. Regularly spend time reading and studying the Bible, seeking to understand the life, teachings, and character of Jesus. Meditate on His words and allow them to shape your beliefs, thoughts, and actions.
Belief in Jesus goes beyond mere intellectual assent; it requires a personal and intimate relationship with Him. Make it a priority to spend time in prayer, communing with Him, and listening for His voice. Seek to know Him not just as a historical figure, but as a living and present Savior who desires to have a relationship with you.
Invest time in studying the attributes and titles of Jesus Christ. Explore passages that reveal His divinity, His role as the Messiah, and His work of redemption. Reflect on the significance of His name and what it means for your life. As you deepen your understanding of Jesus' identity, your belief in Him will grow stronger.
Cultivating a deep-rooted belief in Jesus involves sharing the good news of His name with others. Look for opportunities to share your testimony, the impact of Jesus in your life, and the hope found in Him. Engage in conversations about faith and invite others to explore the person of Jesus. As you share your faith, you reinforce and strengthen your own belief.
True belief in Jesus results in a transformed life. As you cultivate a deep-rooted belief in His name, that belief will begin to manifest in your actions and choices. Embrace a life of obedience to His teachings and commandments. Let your belief in Jesus inspire you to live a life that honors Him and reflects His love and grace to others.
Surround yourself with a community of believers who share your deep-rooted belief in the name of Jesus. Engage in meaningful fellowship, where you can encourage one another, study God's Word together, and hold each other accountable in living out your faith. Share your journey of belief, learn from others' experiences, and be a source of support and encouragement to fellow believers.
Cultivating a deep-rooted belief in the name of Jesus Christ is a lifelong journey. It requires intentional effort, a thirst for knowledge, and a surrendered heart. As you invest in strengthening your belief, you will experience a deeper connection with Jesus, a greater understanding of His love, and a transformed life that impacts those around you. I pray that your belief in Jesus is a steadfast foundation that shapes your entire existence and brings glory to His name.
Living authentically in God's love transforms our lives and empowers us to impact the world around us.
Just as a mighty tree draws strength from its deep roots, our faith finds its foundation in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Cultivating a deep-rooted belief in His name requires intentional effort and a commitment to studying His Word, developing a personal relationship with Him, and embracing a life of obedience.
Consider, again, the majestic tree that stands firm amidst the changing seasons. Its branches reach out, providing shade, shelter, and fruit to those around it. Likewise, as our belief in Jesus takes root in our hearts, His love flows through us, impacting our relationships, our communities, and beyond.
Imagine the beauty of a garden adorned with vibrant flowers, each one reflecting the unique splendor of its Creator. In the same way, as we authentically live in God's love, our lives become a reflection of His character and compassion. Our actions, guided by love and truth, speak louder than words, drawing others to the transforming power of Jesus.
We should never be content with superficial faith or empty rituals. Instead, let us dig deeper, nourishing our belief in Jesus and allowing His love to permeate every aspect of our lives. Let us be known as a people who love genuinely, serve selflessly, and extend grace abundantly.
I pray that we might leave this place with a renewed commitment to cultivate a deep-rooted belief in the name of Jesus Christ. And that our lives would be a testament to His love, bearing fruit that brings hope, healing, and reconciliation to a broken world.
You are called to be like the tree planted by the water, firmly rooted in the truth of Jesus Christ, and flourishing in His love.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit empower us as we journey on, cultivating a deep-rooted belief and living authentically in God's love. Amen.
Let us pray.
Dear Heavenly Father,
As we come to the end of our time together, we bow before You in gratitude and humility. We thank You for the powerful message of belief in the name of Jesus Christ and living authentically in Your love. We are in awe of Your grace that has brought us to this place of understanding and revelation.
Lord, we confess that at times our faith wavers and our love falls short. Yet, we are encouraged by Your Word that assures us of Your faithfulness and Your desire to deepen our belief in You. Help us, O God, to nurture and strengthen our faith, to anchor ourselves in the truth of who Jesus is, and to live out our faith in tangible ways.
We pray for a deeper hunger for Your Word, that it may be a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. May we diligently study and meditate on Your teachings, that our minds may be renewed and our understanding deepened. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, who is the great Teacher, guiding us into all truth and illuminating the mysteries of Your kingdom.
Lord, we also recognize our need for a personal relationship with Jesus. Draw us closer to Him, that we may experience His love, grace, and mercy in a profound way. Help us to surrender our lives fully to Him, submitting to His lordship and following His example of selfless love.
Father, we long to be instruments of grace in the hands of our redeemer. May our lives reflect the transformational power of Your love, that we may be agents of healing, reconciliation, and hope. Empower us to love genuinely, serve selflessly, and extend grace abundantly, so that others may encounter Your love through us.
And As we go from this place, may Your presence go with us. May the truths we have heard today take root in our hearts and bear fruit that glorifies Your name. Strengthen us to live out our faith boldly, shining as beacons of light in a world filled with darkness.
In the name of Jesus Christ, who laid down His life for us, we pray.
May the love of God, which surpasses all understanding, fill your hearts and guide your steps. May you go forth as ambassadors of His love, shining His light in a world in need. May His grace sustain you, His peace be upon you, and His presence go with you always. Amen.