The Life That Comes Through the Son 1 John 5:12
Introduction:
Today, we gather to explore a profound truth found in the Word of God, a truth that speaks directly to the very core of our existence. Our focus is on 1 John 5:12 (NLT), which states, “Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have God’s Son does not have life.”
This verse encapsulates the essence of the Christian faith—eternal life is found in Jesus Christ alone. In a world filled with various philosophies, beliefs, and ways of life, this declaration is both exclusive and inclusive. It is exclusive in that life is only found in the Son, and inclusive in that it is offered to all who will receive Him.
Today, we will delve into three key points: the significance of "having the Son," the nature of the life that the Son gives, and the consequences of not having the Son. As we explore these truths, let’s open our hearts to what God wants to teach us and how He wants to transform us.
I. The Significance of "Having the Son"
The phrase “Whoever has the Son” carries profound meaning. To "have the Son" is more than just acknowledging Jesus as a historical figure or a good teacher. It’s about having a personal, living relationship with Him as your Lord and Saviour.
In John 1:12 (NLT), we read, “But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.”
This verse emphasizes that having the Son is synonymous with believing in Him and accepting Him into your life. It’s a relationship that transforms you from being spiritually dead to being spiritually alive.
The Greek word used for "has" in 1 John 5:12 is echo, which means to hold, possess, or keep. This isn’t about a temporary connection but an ongoing possession. To have the Son is to hold onto Him, to possess Him as the most important part of your life.
Imagine holding onto a lifeline during a storm at sea. That lifeline is your only hope for survival. In the same way, having Jesus as your lifeline is the only way to truly live, both now and for eternity.
Do you "have" the Son? Is your relationship with Jesus something you hold onto with all your heart, soul, and mind? If you have Him, you have everything you need for life and godliness. If you do not have Him, today is the day to reach out and take hold of the lifeline He offers.
II. The Nature of the Life That the Son Gives
What kind of life does Jesus give? It’s not just about living; it’s about truly living—experiencing the fullness of life that God intends for us.
In John 10:10 (NLT), Jesus says, “The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.”
Jesus contrasts the destructive purposes of the enemy with His own purpose, which is to give us life in abundance. This abundant life is characterized by peace, joy, and a deep sense of purpose that transcends our circumstances.
The Greek word for life in both 1 John 5:12 and John 10:10 is zoe, which refers to life in its fullest sense. It’s not just biological life (bios), but a life that is full, vibrant, and eternal. This is the life that Jesus gives—a life that begins now and continues forever in His presence.
Think of a tree planted by a stream, its roots reaching deep into the water. The tree flourishes, its leaves are green, and it bears fruit in its season. This is a picture of the life we have in Christ—rooted, nourished, and fruitful.
Are you experiencing the abundant life that Jesus offers? If not, it’s time to deepen your connection with Him. Draw near to Him in prayer, in the Word, and in fellowship with other believers. Let the life He gives flow through you, filling you with His joy, peace, and purpose.
III. The Consequences of Not Having the Son
The second part of 1 John 5:12 is equally important: “Whoever does not have God’s Son does not have life.” This is a stark and sobering truth. Without the Son, there is no true life—only existence.
In John 3:36 (NLT), Jesus says, “And anyone who believes in God’s Son has eternal life. Anyone who doesn’t obey the Son will never experience eternal life but remains under God’s angry judgment.”
This verse underscores the seriousness of rejecting Jesus. Without Him, there is no hope, no eternal life, only judgment.
The phrase "remains under God’s angry judgment" uses the Greek word orge, meaning wrath or anger. This is not a capricious or arbitrary anger, but a righteous response to sin. Those who reject the Son remain under this judgment, separated from the life God offers.
Imagine a lamp that’s not plugged into a power source. It’s designed to shine, but without power, it remains dark and useless. In the same way, without Jesus, we are disconnected from the true source of life and unable to fulfill the purpose for which we were created.
If you do not have the Son, the consequences are eternal and devastating. But the good news is that Jesus offers Himself to you today. He invites you to come to Him, to receive the life that only He can give. Don’t wait—today is the day of salvation.
Conclusion:
As we conclude, let’s reflect on the profound truth of 1 John 5:12: “Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have God’s Son does not have life.” This verse presents us with a choice—a choice that carries eternal significance. To have the Son is to have life, abundant and eternal. To reject the Son is to forfeit that life and remain under judgment.
Call to Action:
I urge you today to examine your heart. Do you have the Son? Is Jesus truly the Lord of your life? If you’ve been distant from Him, or if you’ve never made the decision to follow Him, now is the time. Open your heart to Him, surrender your life to Him, and receive the life He offers.
For those who already have the Son, rejoice in the life you’ve been given! Live in the fullness of that life, bearing fruit for His glory and sharing His love with others. Let your life be a testimony to the world that in Jesus, and in Jesus alone, is found true and everlasting life.
