Assurance #3: An Awesome Presence (3:24)

Habitually obeying His precepts and principlescauses us to sense an awesome Presencein our lives.

John puts it like this: Those who obey his commands live in him, and he in them.

And this is how we know that he lives in us: We know it by the Spirit he gave us (3:24).

Every time we obey God’s commands, especially through acts of sacrificial love, we can sense God’s approval through what I like to call a “spiritual impression.”

It is beyond the power of words to describe. When we obey God’s commands in difficult circumstances, we can almost hear God’s Holy Spirit say to us, “Way to go!

You’re acting like a child of God.” This is one way we experience what truth found in Romans 8:16?

When we perform sacrificial acts of love and obey God’s preceptsand principles, we can sense an inward confirmation that we are God’s children.

A Foundational Element of Faith

Assurance is a critical element of the Christian faith.

It refers to the certainty and confidence a believer has in their salvation and relationship with God.

Scriptural Basis for Assurance

A key aspect of assurance in Christianity is its grounding in Scripture.

For instance, 1 John 5:13 states, "I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life."

This verse highlights that assurance is not merely wishful thinking but is rooted in the promises of God.

The Role of Faith

Assurance is closely linked to faith.

As your Pastor, encouraging believers to grow in their faith is essential.

Romans 10:17 underscores this by saying, "Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ."

By regularly teaching and preaching the Word of God, my role is to help strengthen the faith that undergirds assurance.

The Holy Spirit's Work

The Holy Spirit plays a pivotal role in the believer's assurance. According to Romans 8:16, "The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children."

Assurance and Christian Living

 As Christians we have the assurance from the Word of God that suffering is a part of His teaching curriculum for our lives, and that it is not an elective!

The miserable Christian is guilty of unbelief.

Assurance is not only about confidence in salvation but also impacts how believers live.

It motivates a life of holiness and obedience, as individuals assured of their salvation are more inclined to live in a manner that reflects their relationship with Christ.

Community and Accountability

Encouraging a sense of community and accountability within the church can also bolster assurance.

Fellowship with other believers provides support and encouragement, helping individuals remain steadfast in their faith journey.

Assurance is a vital aspect of the Christian experience, deeply rooted in Scripture, faith, and the work of the Holy Spirit.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

A clean heart is produced by the Holy Spirit dwelling within us.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

The person who believes in Jesus Christ and loves others dwells in God and God in Him.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

How do we know that God dwells in us? By the Holy Spirit.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

This is made abundantly clear: “we know that he abides in us by the Spirit which he has given us.”

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

⇒ Note that we dwell in God.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

This means that we take up residence in God, live and walk in Him, live and move and have our being in Him.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

It means that we make our home in Him.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

⇒ Note that God dwells in us.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

This means that He takes up residence in us; lives and moves and has His being within us.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

It means that God makes a home in our hearts.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

Again, how do we know this? By His Spirit which He has given us.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

The Holy Spirit of God seals and guarantees us, gives us absolute assurance.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

He lives within us, which means that He talks to us, shares with us, leads and guides us, disciplines us, convicts and convinces us.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

All that is involved in living, the Spirit of God does within us.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

He is our constant and permanent companion.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

He never leaves us nor forsakes us.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

He is always infusing us with the assurance and confidence of God and with His presence and power.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you” (

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

“The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together” (

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

“Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest [guarantee] of the Spirit in our hearts” (

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

“But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father” (

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

“In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest [guarantee] of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory” (

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

“And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption” (

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

“And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him.

1 Peter–Jude (King James Version) D. Test 4: Having a Clean Heart, 3:18–24

And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us” (

Embracing the Unseen: Living in the Confidence of God's Presence.

Living in the awareness of God's presence can provide a profound sense of assurance and peace.

It's about recognizing that, even when we cannot see, feel, or predict the future, we are still guided by a divine presence that leads us every step of the way.

Walking with God: Assurance in Every Step

Faith will make us walk, but assurance will make us run.

We should all be concerned about our assurance of salvation, because if we lack assurance we lack joy, and if we lack joy our life is probably of a poor quality.

Our assurance is only as strong as our faith.

Those who walk by sight walk alone.

Walking by sight is just this—“I believe in myself,” whereas walking by faith is, “I believe in God.”

The final proof any man can have of the fact that he is a Christian is that he keeps, and delights in keeping, and goes on keeping, the commandments of the Lord.

The best evidence of our having the truth is our walking in the truth.

John gives three basic “tests”:

obedience (walking in the light), love (walking in love), and truth (walking in the truth)

These three test helps us to deal with difficult people.

FOUR TYPES OF DIFFICULT PEOPLE

The Compainer- This person is constantly critical. They seem to seek validation more than solutions.

Understanding The Complainer

The complainer is the one who, with their words and attitudes, sows seeds of discord and discontent.

This persona can sneak into any community, undermining unity and fellowship.

Complaining isn't just voicing dissatisfaction; it's an attitude that can isolate us from one another and from God.

Illustration: Consider a sports team where one player constantly complains about the game plan, other players, or even the coach.

This attitude fosters distrust and division, ultimately undermining the team's performance.

Biblical Teachings on Unity

The Bible speaks clearly on fellowship and unity among believers.

In Ephesians 4:3, Paul urges us to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."

He emphasizes that unity is not accidental but something we actively strive for.

Philippians 2:14-15 advises us to "do everything without complaining or arguing," highlighting how these attitudes can prevent us from shining brightly in a world that desperately needs hope and inspiration.

Importance of Unity and Fellowship

Fellowship with Christians is for the sake of fellowship with God.

Unity and fellowship are vital components of any thriving community, organization, or society.

Their importance lies in their ability to foster cooperation, mutual respect, and shared purpose among individuals.

Unity brings people together, encouraging them to focus on common goals rather than individual differences.

It transcends personal interests and promotes collaboration, enabling groups to overcome challenges more effectively.

When people are united, they create a sense of strength and resilience that is hard to achieve in isolation.

Fellowship nurtures genuine connections, empathy, and a sense of belonging.

It involves not only working together but also caring for one another, celebrating successes, and supporting each other through hardships.

Fellowship helps build trust, which is essential for meaningful relationships and collective growth.

Together, unity and fellowship cultivate a spirit of community where people feel valued, respected, and empowered.

They reduce division and conflict, inspire positive action, and create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to contribute toward a better future.

Unity is essential because it reflects God's nature and witness to the world.

2) A Person with Controlling Character

Being a quiet person is a disposition of character. There is no need to be in control or controlling. Nor is there a need to be manipulative, competitive or demanding. A quiet person can be firm, express disappointment, ask for what he or she wants and advocate what is important. This freedom comes from the experience of quiet time with God. As we spend time with him, our souls and the cells of our bodies come to know that Jesus is Lord and that he is working in our circumstances, whatever they be, for his glory and our good.

The controller dominates discussions; often acting out of fear or insecurity.

Are you willing to wait? Are you willing to let God set the pace? Or are you such a controller you can’t live on God’s terms

God, you can have 95 percent of me; I’ll just hold on to this 5 percent,” we are actually saying that we are still the one who decides what to give and what not to give—we are the controller.

John 13:35 reminds us: "By this all men will know that you are my disciples if you love one another."

Our love and unity become a testimony to the living Christ among us.

An intriguing concept: the role of a Controller within the context of our faith community.

Controllers in video games direct every move on the screen, but in our spiritual lives, we need to surrender control to God and work together in unity.

This is essential for fostering fellowship within the body of believers.

Biblical Foundation for Unity

The Bible is rich with teachings on unity among believers.

In Ephesians 4:3, Paul urges us to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."

This reminds us that unity is not just a passive state but something we must actively pursue.

Furthermore, Jesus prays for our unity in John 17:21, "that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you."

Indirect resistance and silent disapproval.

A passive progressive person is someone who favors gradual reform and progressive ideals but tends to express or act on them in a reserved, indirect, or non-confrontational manner.

They might support social change, inclusivity, and innovation, yet often avoid overt activism, heated debates, or assertive leadership roles.

Their influence comes through thoughtful dialogue, quiet encouragement, and subtle actions rather than bold confrontation.

They value harmony and reflection, using patience, empathy, and diplomacy to promote progress in a steady, respectful way.

4) The Chronically Offended-

Repentance is the relinquishment of any practice from the conviction that it has offended God.

Quick to take offense, slow to forgive; usually spiritually immature.

Chronic is something persistance for a long time.

The chronically offended refers to individuals who seem to take frequent or excessive offense, often perceiving slight or harm in a wide range of comments, opinions, or societal norms.

They may interpret differing viewpoints as personal attacks and are quick to express indignation or demand redress.

This mindset can stem from a deep sense of identity attachment, heightened sensitivity to injustice, or a desire to uphold strict standards of inclusivity and fairness.

While often motivated by a genuine concern for respect and equality, their reactions can sometimes create tension, hinder open dialogue, or make others hesitant to engage in honest conversation.

Life's journey is easier when we feel the assurance of having a constant companion.

Walking with God allows us to step confidently into the unknown, knowing that each step is supported by His love and wisdom.

God's Everlasting Presence: A Beacon in Our Journey

God's presence serves as a guiding light amid life's uncertainties and challenges.

No matter where we find ourselves, this eternal presence can act as a beacon, providing guidance and hope.

Finding Peace in His Promise: The Comfort of Divine Presence

The promises of God's presence bring comfort and tranquility.

In moments of doubt or fear, leaning into these assurances can transform our perspective and bring peace to troubled hearts.

Beyond Sight: Trusting in the Assurance of God's Presence

Faith often requires trusting what we cannot see.

Believing in God's unseen presence can offer a sense of security and calm, reinforcing the idea that we are never truly alone.