1 John 2:3-6 (NIV)
3 We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. 4 Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. 5 But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: 6 Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.
‘Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.’ This is a strong instruction. Perhaps on its own it sounds impossible, how can I live like him? What if I fail to, as I surely will? Perhaps a reminder of what Scripture teaches us elsewhere might be helpful. Firstly, we are saved not by our behaviour, living up to a certain standard, but by Christ and his grace. The Bible is clear, on our own we cannot live as Christ did, not all the time and in every way. It also tells us that we are not alone, we are in the family of the church so that we might encourage and carry each other. We also have the wonderful gift of the Spirit, transforming us so that we become more like him. Perhaps John is speaking of our attitude and general direction in life. If we love Jesus, we will seek to be like him and will indeed become more like him. If we don’t, then chances are we won’t.
Father, thank you for sending Jesus. Help me by your Spirit to strive in love to be more like him.
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