Whosoever Shall Confess that Jesus is the Son of God
In 1 John 4:15-16 (KJV), we find a powerful declaration of faith that is essential for every Christian. This passage reads:
"Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him."
The Importance of Confessing Jesus as the Son of God
The apostle John emphasizes the significance of confessing Jesus as the Son of God. This confession is not just a superficial acknowledgment of Jesus' existence, but a heartfelt declaration of faith in His divinity. It is a commitment to believe in Jesus' supernatural origin, His sinless life, His atoning death, and His resurrection from the dead.
God Dwells in Us
The Bible says that when we confess Jesus as the Son of God, God dwells in us. This is a magnificent promise that underscores the intimacy of our relationship with God. Through faith in Jesus, we become the temple of the Holy Spirit, and God's presence resides within us.
We Have Known and Believed the Love of God
In verse 16, John reiterates the notion that we have known and believed the love that God has to us. This love is not just a sentimental feeling but a profound understanding of God's character. The love of God is not just a feeling; it is a choice, a decision to love us despite our sinfulness.
God is Love
The passage culminates with the declaration that "God is love." This is not just an attribute of God, but His very essence. God's love is not just what He does, but who He is. God's love is not just an action, but a state of being. This love is the foundation of our Christian walk, and it is the motivation behind God's plan of salvation.
In conclusion, 1 John 4:15-16 reminds us of the crucial importance of confessing Jesus as the Son of God. This confession is not just a ritualistic practice, but a heartfelt declaration of faith that transforms our lives. May we always remember that God dwells in us, and that His love is the foundation of our Christian walk.
