2-18-2018 The Ability to Abide 1 John 2:24-28
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Introduction:
A preacher once told this story:
A Rabbi was at odds with his congregation. Nothing was going right and there was chaos and turmoil every day. The president of the synagogue went to the rabbi and said that they had to have a conference of the twelve leaders of the synagogue to discuss the issue that was causing the entire problem and get it corrected once and for all. Little did the rabbi know that everybody else had already talked and his viewpoint had no chance of success. The charade was carried out though with a lot of discussion on the subject. The president of the conference stood and announced that it was time to vote. He proposed that the majority would rule in this matter and all agreed. Everyone recorded their vote on a piece of paper and when the votes were counted, the president told the rabbi that he had been outvoted eleven to one. The majority has spoken.
The rabbi rose to his feet, "So you think you are right and I am wrong because of a vote. Well, think again, for I will call on the Holy One of Israel to give us a sign that I am right and you are wrong." Immediately, a deafening clap of thunder sounded, accompanied by a brilliant flash. The mahogany table they were gathered around was cracked in two. The room was filled with smoke and the president and the elders were thrown to the floor, but the rabbi remained standing -- untouched and triumphant.
The president of the synagogue slowly rose from underneath the table. His hair was singed, his glasses where hanging from one ear and his clothes were in great disarray. Finally, after some time, he responded saying, "Alright, alright, so it is eleven to two. But we still have the majority!"
Sometimes, we have trouble figuring out what to do in the midst of chaos and turmoil. But there is a simple answer! Remaining in Christ, in His Word, and in obedience will guide us through the toughest times!
Transition:
I know that this has to be the answer in part because this is exactly what John is telling us in our passage this morning:
Scripture Reading:
24 Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you too will abide in the Son and in the Father. 25 And this is the promise that he made to us—eternal life. 26 I write these things to you about those who are trying to deceive you. 27 But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in him. 28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming.
Our passage today mentions abiding six times in just 4 verses. According to our author, abiding in Christ is equated to abiding in His Word, in His way. As we abide in His Word & His way, the Holy Spirit teaches us & is in the process of molding us into the image of God’s Son. Abiding in Christ is the practice of righteous, which is the way of Christ-likeness.
The word “abide” is a very important word in John’s writings, particular his gospel. Abide is the word that Jesus uses in the promises He makes to His disciples the night before His crucifixion:
Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.
Transition:
To abide [Greek: μένω] means “to remain, stay, reside, dwell in, or to rest in.” This word is practical, it’s inviting, and warmly personal. It is a calling to us to join in on a genuine relationship and enjoy the fellowship with our Creator that lasts well beyond a lifetime. So, this morning let’s see what this μένωinvitation includes:
I. μένω in the Word (vv. 24-26)
I. μένω in the Word (vv. 24-26)
As we are discipled by John’s words here, we must guarantee that the Word which they and we have heard from the beginning remains us as it remained in them.
24 Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you too will abide in the Son and in the Father. 25 And this is the promise that he made to us—eternal life. 26 I write these things to you about those who are trying to deceive you.
Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you too will abide in the Son and in the Father.
These early Christians had heard the gospel, accepted the Gospel, very possible from John, himself. They knew that Christ was God's Son, that He died for their sins and was raised from the dead to give them new life, and that He would return and establish His kingdom in its fullness. This teaching living in them is what would keep them safe from false teachers and from satan’s lies. So their fellowship was eroding by teachers who denied these basic doctrines of the Christian faith, and some of these believers were in danger of buying into lies and false arguments. John encouraged them to hold on to the honest truth, the Word of God, what they had already known and heard at the start of their new life with Christ.
Verse 24
Verse 24, “Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you too will abide in the Son and in the Father. ”
These early Christians had heard the gospel, very likely from John himself. They knew that Christ was God's Son, that He died for their sins and was raised from the dead to give them new life, and that He would return and establish His kingdom in its fullness. The host of hell is diametrically opposed to this teaching. So their fellowship was being infiltrated by teachers who denied these basic doctrines of the Christian faith, and some of the believers were in danger of succumbing to false arguments. John encouraged them to hold on to the Christian truth, the Word of God, they heard at the beginning of their walk with Christ.
It is important to grow in our knowledge of the Lord, to deepen our understanding through careful study, and to teach these truths to others. But no matter how much we learn, and however hard it gets, we must never abandon the basic truths about Christ. Jesus will always be God's Son, and His sacrifice for our sins is permanent. No truth will ever contradict these teachings in the Bible.
Here, the word “abide” indicates that we are to endure in these truths, or persevere in obedience the Word and, therefore, abide or live in both the Son and Father. Abide or let His Word in.
How? how do we abide in the Scripture? Know it, memorize it, meditate on it and your relationship with God continually affect your life. If you do you will have some good proof that you are truly saved.
Here, the word “abide” indicates that we are to live in these truths, or in the Word and therefore abide or live in both the Son and Father. Abide in or let His Word and your relationship with God continually affect your life. If you do you will have your proof that you are truly God’s adopted Son.
Some of the best meditation comes from memorizing scripture!
Dr. Dennis Davidson says that to remain in “expresses a continuing of relationship. It is not enough merely to have heard and assented to the Gospel in the past. The "Good News” must continue to be present and active in the lives of those who have heard it. They must continually call it to mind and let it affect their lives. This is why continual study of the Word and participation in Christian instruction is so important for perseverance in the faith.” If they would “abide” or “be at home” in the Word, they would continue to “abide” in the fellowship of God the Father and God the Son.
For those who let the Word remain in them there is a spectacular reward given in the next verse, verse 25
And this is the promise that he made to us—eternal life.
YHWH promises eternal life to those who abide or persevere in the Father and Son. This eternity in the presence of YHWH is experienced not only in heaven, but right here, right now, on earth by those who abide in Jesus Christ, by those who remain in His Word and His Way. Eternal life is not simply the length of time after death, but the quality of life which is now ours and will eternally be ours throughout the ages. Those who abide in the Son experience this life here and now. What a precious promise God has made to those who abide in Him!
25
“And this is the promise which He Himself made to us: eternal life.”
God has promised those in whom the Father and Son abide eternal life [or life of the ages (αἰώνιον)]. This life is experienced not only in heaven but here on earth by those who abide in Jesus Christ, by those who remain in His Word and Way. Eternal life is not simply the length of time after death, but the quality of life which is now ours and will eternally be ours throughout the ages. Those who abide in the Son experience this life here and now. What a precious promise God has made to those who abide in Him!
We too would benefit by discovering and believing God's promises. As we read God's Word, let's search for the promises that apply to us. Then as we act on them, they will become precious promises proven.
In his Bible study, he has found many promises, though he realizes not all apply to him (such as those given specifically to Israel). But promises that reveal God's unchanging love for all believers are precious to him. The PPP verses contain promises that he has trusted God to keep, and God has proven that He is true to His Word.
We too would benefit by discovering and believing God's promises. As we read God's Word, let's search for the promises that apply to us. Then as we act on them, they will become precious promises proven.
Apparently there were those who sought to undermine the readers’ conviction that Jesus is the Christ and that they had eternal life through Him. In verse 26 John reminds them that he has warned those genuinely know God and know His truth (2:12-14, 21) of those who wanted to deceive them concerning Jesus and His teachings.
I write these things to you about those who are trying to deceive you.
Apparently there were those who sought to undermine the readers’ conviction that Jesus is the Christ and that they had eternal life through Him. In verse 26 John reminds them that he has warned those genuinely know God and know His truth (2:12-14, 21) of those who wanted to deceive them concerning Jesus and His teachings. “These things I have written to you concerning those who are trying to deceive you.”
Anti-christs attempt to deceive true believers through manipulative talk and made up doctrines. Jesus Himself warn us of them in . That is the reason we must anchor our faith deep in the written Word of God. Our thoughts, our life experiences, or even our favorite teachers can lead us astray unwittingly. This is why we must always abide in the scriptures to be sure that we are following in His way.
Cults seem to focus much of their concentration on believers in other churches. Anti-christs are always attempting to deceive or lead astray true believers through false pursuits and doctrines. Jesus Himself warn us of them (). That is the reason we must base our faith solidly on the written revelation of God. Our thoughts or life experience or teachers can cause us to be led astray. Therefore we must always return to the written Word of God to be assured that we are following in His way. False religion spends most of its time trying to seduce Christians or near Christians to their way of thinking. [They seem to leave the wicked lost alone.]
Transition:
By the way, just because someone can quote scripture and even uses the Bible to prove his/her points does not mean we should automatically trust them. Be aware for many antichrists will use the Bible just as the cults do, but they will not have the same Spirit you do and if you will listen to the Holy Spirit, He will reveal that deception to you. Which brings us to our second point:
II. μένω in the HOLY SPIRIT (v.27)
II. μένω in the HOLY SPIRIT (v.27)
Next in verse 27 we are called to abide in the anointing by following the Holy Spirit’s leading.
But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in him.
John again returns (from v. 20) to the believer’s anointing. You received [lambanō, past experience] Jesus and the Holy Spirit took up His permanent residence in your life. True believers have received the Holy Spirit and He lives within them. This means that believers can place their total trust in Him, rely on Him for guidance and strength, and live as He directs. It implies a personal, life-giving relationship. The same idea is in , in Jesus’ words about Him being the vine and his followers the branches. A mark of surrendering to the Spirit is abiding in the Spirit. If you abide in or live in the Spirit, He will lead you and teach you.
What does he mean by “you have no need that anyone should teach you?” Is John saying that there is no need for anyone to teach on spiritual things? NO, he is saying that with the Holy Spirit’s teaching, we wouldn’t need the extra teachings that these false teachers offer
What does he mean by “you have no need that anyone should teach you?” Is John saying that there is no need for anyone to teach on spiritual things? NO, he is saying that with the Holy Spirit’s teaching, we wouldn’t need the extra teachings that these false teachers offer
How does the Holy Spirit teach today? (Good question! I’m glad you’ve asked!) He teaches through His Word that ought to be already in you, and through His Word manifested in preaching, and even through our tough life situations. The Spirit will teach all that we need to know, but we must do our part and apply what He teaches.
The Spirit will teach all that we need to know, but we must do our part and apply what He teaches. God’s grace must be met with our action.
One commentator said it this way:
You don’t need anyone to teach you means that Christians can tell the lying antichrists, “We do not need another teacher because the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of truth, teaches us, so we will continue in what he has taught us, and continue to live in Christ.” This does not mean that Christians should turn away from the counsel of faithful ministers and attempt to make it on their own—in fact, that often will lead them astray. Instead, it means that Christians can discern truth and reject falsehood. The better believers know the truth, the more easily they will be able to identify a lie.
The fact that the Spirit teaches all things refers to the basic gospel truths essential for salvation. This does not mean that all believers will know and understand everything, nor does it mean that the Spirit will add new revelation to what has already been taught. Instead, through the Spirit, believers know enough to keep them from throwing away their faith in Christ and believing the lies of the false teachers.
Transition:
We need the Holy Spirit and we also need Christ which is the next point and the next verse
III. μένω in the CHRIST, (vv. 28)
III. μένω in the CHRIST, (vv. 28)
If we abide in Christ, John tells us that we will have bold confidence before Christ when we stand before at His second coming.
And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming.
28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming. 29 If you know that he is righteous, you may be sure that everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him.
1jn 2
Once again John invites us, to abide in the relationship with the Christ. The reason for the necessity of our abiding specifically in Christ is that we would be spotless, pure, not ashamed. This is definitely a reference to Jesus’ return. It is interesting to the pronoun referents to each member of the trinity! Coming is translated from παριυσία, which is a presence, or "being alongside." In extra-biblical literature, παριυσία referred to a ruler's visit to a city in his realm. In the New Testament, and especially in Paul, it is a technical term meaning the second advent of Christ. Interestingly, “παριυσία” appears only in John's writings.
, presence, or "being alongside." In extra-biblical literature, parousia referred to a ruler's visit to a city in his realm. In the New Testament, and especially in Paul, it is a technical term meaning the second advent of Christ. Interestingly, “παριυσία” appears only in John's writings.
The fact of the Lord's appearing is certain, the time is not. Therefore we are commanded to constantly abide in Him.
Appear can also be translated "to be made manifest or visible." The invisible Lord Jesus will some day be made visible as He comes to rapture His Bride, the Church! That’s good news!!! What hope is for us here and now as we anticipate the coming of our invisible GOD to a visible relationship with Jesus before all on Earth.
Abiding in Christ promises to produce in us a confidence in Him and in our relationship with Him. The bold confidence is the heart attitude of one who lives so close with our Lord that there is nothing between him/or her and his/her Lord when Jesus comes, nothing of known sin in his/her life when we are called in the rapture. The believer should be living in such close fellowship with his Lord that at the time of the rapture, the sudden appearance of our Savior is just an improved continuing of the fellowship that was progressing while on earth.
The saint at the time of the Rapture should be living in such close fellowship with his Lord that the sudden appearance of the Savior merely continues the fellowship that was in progress on earth, like Enoch who walked with God on earth and suddenly was not, for God took him.
Those who have made Jesus less than He is or should be to them will be ashamed at His coming. Literally, it reads in the Greek: "not be ashamed away from Him." The idea is that we should so live that when Jesus returns as the Judge we will not shrink away from Him with a sense of guilt, but will welcome Him in confidence and with a good conscience.
Dr. Dennis Davidson said of this verse:
All true Christians are accepted but there is a major difference between being accepted and being acceptable. Many Christians will be ashamed that they did not abide in God’s Word and way. Ashamed that they did not try to win others. Ashamed of the things they said. Ashamed of they did. Ashamed of the things they did not do. Ashamed that they were not transformed in to the image of God’s beloved Son.
The Beloved Disciple’s Memoirs and Letters: The Gospel of John, I, II, and III John Word and Phrase Study
Believers are to look for and rejoice in the return of Christ, but those who have lived in selfish, worldly ways will surely be surprised and embarrassed at His appearance! There will be a judgment of believers (cf. 2 Cor. 5:10).
Some months later when the man was scheduled for leave, a friend suggested, "Don't announce your coming. Slip in quietly." Arriving in London, the young man went directly to the hospital, but his wife was not there. He then went to their house, where he was told by the servants, "Oh, she will probably be at the tea dance at the Ritz." Going there, he found her in the company of another man. How shocked and ashamed she was at her husband's appearing!
Believers are to look for and rejoice in the return of Christ, but those who have lived in selfish, worldly ways will surely be surprised and embarrassed at His appearance! There will be a judgment of believers
For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.
When our Lord returns, we won't want to be found in sin and preoccupied with the world’s lures. Expecting Christ to come at any moment to receive us and reject the hypocrites can be one of the most powerful tools to flee from sin in our lives. Our hearts should be focused on Jesus, at all times to be truly the one we love.
What if He comes for you today? Would you be ready to meet Him face to face?
So What?
So What?
So what if Jesus comes for you today? Would you be ready to meet Him face to face? or would you say, “Not yet, I have some things in my life to clean up first.” If Jesus were to want to take a walk through your house, would there be things that you would want to hide in your closets first? Don’t live in darkness and guilt, but in love and in freedom!
We must grow in our knowledge of the Lord, to deepen our understanding through careful study, and to teach these truths to others. But no matter how much we learn, and however hard it gets, we must never abandon the basic truths about Christ. Jesus will always be God's Son, and His sacrifice for our sins is permanent. No truth will ever contradict these teachings in the Bible.
do you enjoy eternal life? Are you experiencing this life here and now? Do you have quality relationship with Jesus? Are you abiding in His Word and is His Word abiding in you? If you don’t have a quality relationship with Jesus it can be yours for the abiding.
Conclusion:
Because we are living in the last hour, the time between Christ's first and second coming, we need to be abiding in Christ. Our purpose is not to determine the exact time of the end but to fully please God with our words, actions, and attitudes in the present hour.
Because we are in the last hour we need to be prepared for the future. We will want to have confidence at His coming and not shrink away from Him in shame. Jesus said the end will come swiftly. There will be no time for preparation when He rolls open the eastern sky. We need to get ready right now for His return. We need to have the anointing of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
do you enjoy eternal life? Are you experiencing this life here and now? Do you have quality relationship with Jesus? Are you abiding in His Word and is His Word abiding in you? If you don’t have a quality relationship with Jesus it can be yours for the abiding.
Are you ready to meet Him? Are you walking in the anointing of the Holy Spirit? Are you abiding in the Son? If not, come and surrender yourself to the Holy Spirit’s leadership and be taught to live in righteousness.