1 John 2:21-22: The Importance of Knowing the Truth
In the book of 1 John, the apostle John writes to the early Christian community, emphasizing the importance of knowing the truth and rejecting falsehood. In 1 John 2:21-22, he pens a crucial message that highlights the significance of embracing the truth and avoiding deception.
The Context
In the preceding verses (1 John 2:18-20), John addresses the issue of antichrists, false prophets, and deceivers who have infiltrated the Christian community. He warns the believers to be vigilant and test the spirits, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.
The Message
In 1 John 2:21-22, John writes:
21 I do not write to you because you do not know the truth, but because you do know it, and because no lie is of the truth. 22 Who is the liar but the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, the one who denies the Father and the Son.
The Importance of Knowing the Truth
In verse 21, John affirms that the believers know the truth. He acknowledges their understanding of the gospel message and their recognition of Jesus Christ as the Son of God. This knowledge is not based on human wisdom or intellectual understanding but on the revelation of God through the Holy Spirit.
The Danger of Deception
In verse 22, John identifies the liar as one who denies that Jesus is the Christ. This denial is not limited to a mere rejection of Jesus' claim to be the Messiah; it is a rejection of the Father and the Son. The antichrist spirit is a spirit of deception that seeks to lead people away from the truth of God's love and redemption through Jesus Christ.
Conclusion
In 1 John 2:21-22, we are reminded of the importance of knowing the truth and rejecting falsehood. As believers, we must be grounded in the Word of God and be vigilant against the attacks of the enemy, who seeks to deceive and lead us astray. May we hold fast to the truth of God's love and redemption through Jesus Christ, and may we be lights in the darkness, shining forth the hope of salvation to a world in need.
