1 John 3:11-21: The Message of Love and Eternal Life
In the third chapter of 1 John, verses 11-21, the apostle John continues to emphasize the importance of love and eternal life. This passage serves as a reminder to believers to live a life characterized by love, forgiveness, and obedience to God's commandments.
The Message of Love
"For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another." (1 John 3:11)
The apostle John begins by reminding his audience of the fundamental message of Christianity: to love one another. This love is not limited to our brothers and sisters in Christ, but extends to all people, regardless of their background or social status. Jesus Christ demonstrated this unconditional love when He laid down His life for humanity.
The Evil One
"We should not be like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his works were evil and his brother's righteous." (1 John 3:12)
John contrasts the love of God with the hatred of the evil one, exemplified by Cain, who murdered his brother Abel. Cain's actions were motivated by jealousy and a desire for superiority, whereas Abel's righteous deeds earned him God's favor. This passage serves as a warning to believers to reject the evil one's influence and instead emulate God's love.
Assurance of Eternal Life
"We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death." (1 John 3:14)
In this passage, John assures believers of their eternal life in Christ. The love of God and love for one another are evidence of this new life. Conversely, those who do not demonstrate this love remain in spiritual death.
The Assurance of Prayer
"And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight." (1 John 3:22)
Finally, John encourages believers to pray confidently, knowing that their prayers will be answered because they are obedient to God's commandments. This assurance of prayer is rooted in a life of love, obedience, and devotion to God.
In conclusion, 1 John 3:11-21 emphasizes the importance of loving one another, rejecting the evil one's influence, and living a life characterized by obedience to God's commandments. As believers, we can have assurance of eternal life and confidence in our prayers when we prioritize love and obedience in our daily lives.
