Scripture –
1 John 3:23 – And this is his commandment, that we believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us.
Observation –
John is instructing the church how we are to abide in God. We are to believe in the name of Jesus as the Son of God, our risen Lord and savior. In response to the love of Christ, we are commanded to love Him and our neighbors.
Application –
I must believe in the name of Jesus as the only name in which there is salvation and reconciliation to God the Father. Faith first, then follow Jesus. Jesus did not tell the disciples to believe in me and go about your old ways. When we believe in Christ we are new creation in and through Him. The love of Jesus is the most powerful thing in the world and the only thing to change hearts and lives. We are called to love as Jesus loved us first. I can’t claim to love Jesus and have malice in my heart for those who don’t love me or support a Biblical worldview. There is Spiritual warfare going on all around us and prayer is our weapon. I can’t allow myself to be sucked into the world and deceived by the enemy. I must seek first the Kingdom in Word and prayer. My response to those who don’t love us and want to shut us down needs to be prayer. This is not a suggestion when convenient or within certain criteria, rather a commandment from God.
Prayer –
Father,
Thank you for loving me and sending Jesus to pay for my sins so I can repent, be reconciled and have a relationship with you. Let the Spirit give me strength, courage in my faith to love you and love others so they can see you.