The Pretentious Free Life Series

As we entered the COVID-19 crisis I envisioned Christians would support those in leadership positions, I cannot fathom the stress they have endured. I never envisioned the conflict we have witnessed, among Christians and churches. As seen on Facebook, many Christians become antagonistic toward those that hold to different views about precautionary measures, to include decisions about whether to have in-person worship. Sadly, it has given me a clear picture of the conflict issues addressed in 1 John. I experienced this while serving as an interim pastor; the conflict ran deep in our church.

At these crossroads I believe it is less about the topic of the day and more about the situation allowing the conflict to surface. The problem was not direct issues requiring necessary decisions, it become a way for many to let their personal unrest to become projected on someone who is attempting to maintain fellowship and make responsible decisions. Everybody had an opinion about things out of our control; however, the real struggle was within. How to work together in harmony and become a shining witness to others and provide a pastoral voice to the discussion.

It is also an expression of our failure to acknowledge our sin in these test times of the church and our spiritual development. I was appalled by some of the immaturity that characterized many who profess to be Christian. Many fell victim to conspiracy theories and unsubstantiated mantras. I could only wonder, If Christians have so easily fallen victims to these, are they vulnerable to things of a spiritual nature. That is something each person will need to assess; however, John suggests seeking truth starts with personal assessment and acceptance of our sin.

We all, like sheep, have gone astray,

each of us has turned to our own way;

and the LORD has laid on him

the iniquity of us all. Isaiah 53:6 (NIV)

When a believer turns from God, what does that mean? 1 John is talking about sin of an eternal nature. What do you do when you sin? We are encouraged to confess it and turn from the sin that creates a roadblock for experiencing firsthand the life God intends.

John wants all believers to know they have eternal life because they are precious in the sight of Jesus. He holds before us the key by which certainty becomes a faith response to all of life: Jesus Christ. John's purpose in writing was to motivate his readers to cultivate greater intimacy with God. John uses the word “Know” perhaps forty times, in certain forms. It is best seen in 2 different verbs he uses:

• ????s?? (ginoskomen) occurs seven times—verb indicative present active 1st person plural:

o “we know” emphasizes inward conscious knowledge—English word conscience has been derived.

o Occurs in 1 John 2:3, 5, 18; 3:24; 4:6, 13; 5:2 (plus 18 times in 1 John in different forms).

• ??da (oidamen) occurs seven times—verb indicative perfect active 1st person plural:

o “we know”—“full knowledge” is meant, or with pro (“foreknowledge”), or ana (“reading”).

o occurs in 1 John 3:2, 14; 5:15 twice, 18, 19, 20 (plus 8 times in 1 John in different forms).

John’s use of the plural expresses the common position of all Christians before God, in contrast to an individual experience—he is writing the Church.

31 But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” John 20:31.

I

s placing our faith in Jesus Christ relevant to our lives? Does this make an impact on our daily live? Yes! Trust is one of the most powerful ingredients of life. Having an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ is the most important relationship available to mankind. Abiding in Him and He in us results in an adventurous life.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2

Life is lived by faith. We trust people every day–the doctor, the cook, motorist we do not know, etc. Without trust there would not be enough mental hospitals to contain us.

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.

2 In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.

3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” John 14:1-3