The central message of this chapter is that we should love one another (v.11). Love is displayed in many ways and we as Christians are open to scrutiny not only by those who do not believe in Jesus but also by our brothers and sisters in Christ. Jesus is our example and we are to mirror him in all things. I have sometimes heard criticism of a follower of Christ because they have done or said something that would not be considered a Christian act. We always have to be mindful that our actions and our words bear witness to our true identity. John even goes as far as saying that we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters as Jesus laid down His life for us. Our love for one another, that’s love for all people not just our Christian brothers and sisters, even those we don’t like or approve of, should be the same love that Jesus displayed during his earthly ministry. Jesus always had time for the disadvantaged, the despised and the sinner and he displayed his amazing love to all humanity by laying down his life for us (v.16).
This chapter also continues to remind us of our inheritance as children of God through the grace and love displayed through the blood of Jesus. I never cease to be amazed and humbled that God would sacrifice his one and only Son for me and embrace me as his child in spite of my sinfulness. It is in acknowledging this wonderful gift of love that we are called to live as Christ lived not letting anyone or anything lead us astray. It is in how we live our lives, what we say, what we do that distinguishes us as followers of Christ in a sinful unbelieving world.
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Action:
Read and reread this passage and ask God to show you any area of your life that does not reflect the very character of Christ. Pray that God will help you to be like Him in every way bearing witness that you are indeed a child of God.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father thank you for rescuing me from myself and adopting me into your family. Help me to love my brothers and sisters just as you have shown your love for me through the blood of Jesus so that all I do and say will bring glory to your name. Amen.