1 John 2:12-14 (NIV)
12 I am writing to you, dear children,
because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name.
13 I am writing to you, fathers,
because you know him who is from the beginning.
I am writing to you, young men,
because you have overcome the evil one.
14 I write to you, dear children,
because you know the Father.
I write to you, fathers,
because you know him who is from the beginning.
I write to you, young men,
because you are strong,
and the word of God lives in you,
and you have overcome the evil one.
‘I am writing to you fathers’. If we continue taking these titles as referring to peoples’ different levels of maturity, then by fathers John must mean those who have developed a deep spiritual maturity. These Christians have developed peace in the turmoil of life, doubts and temptations, and questions of faith through knowing God. Because of their longstanding, real relationship with him, they know security in these challenges because that relationship is certain. It is like my relationship with my wife – only more so because it is God – I may not know everything about her, but because I know her and her character, and have enjoyed a long relationship with her, those gaps don’t threaten me.
Eternal Father, I want to know you like these fathers! Thank you that through your Spirit and through what Jesus has done, we have the opportunity of such a relationship. Give me the patience and faithfulness in my part to build it.
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