“Dear children, don’t let anyone deceive you about this: When people do what is right, it shows that they are righteous, even as Christ is righteous. But when people keep on sinning, it shows that they belong to the devil, who has been sinning since the beginning. But the Son of God came to destroy the works of the devil. Those who have been born into God’s family do not make apractice of sinning, because God’s life is in them. So they can’t keep on sinning, because they are children of God. So now we can tell who are children of God and who are children of the devil. Anyone who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God.”- 1 John 3:7-10 New Living Translation
Based on what we’ve looked at so far it is apparent that John was very concerned his readers would fall into a trap laid by the false teachers (heretics) that were among them. His continued reference to living righteously, rather than sinfully is pronounced and somewhat repetitive. That’s okay, because the more something is said, the greater the chance the hearers will listen and apply what they are being told. Many times telling something once just isn’t enough.
The key phrase in this paragraph is found in red … “a practice of sinning”. As I mentioned the other day, Christian’s will sin from time to time, but if they are truly born again they will feel real guilt, ask God for forgiveness and vow to not do that thing again. That is not practicing sin. This is how we can spot an imposter, by taking note of their lifestyle. Do they strive, as we should, to please the Lord with our thoughts, words and deeds or live as they choose with no regard to the Lord and his word? They talk the talk, but do they walk the walk? Are they striving to be like Christ or are they in the practice of sinning? We shouldn’t judge, but we CAN be fruit inspectors.
Sadly, there are many believers in Christ who are bullish in their approach to exhibit their faith. This turns off fellow believers and those we are trying to reach with the gospel. Some of us are incredibly judgmental. If we live a righteous life we will display patience, love and mercy to the brethren and those outside the family. We are no better or worse than anyone else. Study how Jesus lived … what he prayed, what he said to others and how he acted and reacted to daily situations. Then do likewise … within reason. Ask God to guide you thoughts, words, actions and reactions allowing everything to pass thru the filter of the Holy Spirit. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing! rlkeller
Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.
No comments:
Post a Comment