Scripture Text: 1 John 3:19-24
for whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything; Whoever keeps his commandments abides in God, and God in him. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit whom he has given us.
1 John 3:20 & 24 (ESV)
Children who grow up in Christian homes sometimes pray the “sinner’s prayer” more than once “just to be sure.” That is, they respond to invitations to accept Christ into their heart multiple times because they are not sure if the previous times were “enough.”
The apostle John, however, wanted the recipients of his letter to “set [their]hearts at rest” to know for sure that they were saved (v. 19). He didn’t want the enemy to use anxiety about their salvation as a weapon against them. Ultimately, a believer’s assurance of salvation is a knowledge that is secure within God’s knowledge (vv. 20–21). Even though our own hearts might condemn us or make us question its reality, we can rest on the fact that “God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything.” God’s knowledge (unlike our own) is complete and entirely true. If He knows we’re part of His family, the matter is settled, case closed.
From our perspective, our knowledge can be confirmed as we obey (v. 22; see also vv. 9–10). If we were not saved, we’d still be dead in our sins and unable to behave righteously or please God. The fact that we can love and obey shows His new life at work within us (v. 23). Furthermore, He answers our prayers, which means they align with His will, which would be impossible if we were not “in Christ.”
We have assurance of salvation from the Holy Spirit (v. 24). This puts our hearts at rest in His presence, without fear or worry. As Paul put it: “The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children”. When Jesus promised His disciples the Holy Spirit, He intended for this to be an important part of the Spirit’s ministry to the church.
Reflect
1. Does your heart fear, worry and become restless about your assurance of salvation?
2. Are you not assured to know that you have received the Holy Spirit when you placed your trust in Christ as your Lord and Savior?
3. Do you see yourself obeying Christ in your life?
Remember
As an extra security that Christ abides in you, John is saying to you that God has also given you the Holy Spirit. Well, that underlines that you have new life. The Spirit Who is in you, convinces you that the Lord Jesus is the eternal life in you. Isn’t that a great confirmation from God?
Read
Psalm 139:1-4; John 14:15-31; Romans 8:9-17; Ephesians 1:13-14
Pray
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your Son my Lord Jesus; for He is in You and in Him, You are in us. As I love Him and therefore I love the You Father and You love us and reveal Yourself to us. We share in the mutual knowing and loving of the Godhead. Also thank You for sending the Holy Spirit to be with me and in Whom adds to my confidence of my unbreakable relationship with You. In Your Son Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
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