HOW DO WE KNOW THAT WE ARE SAVED?

PROCLAMATION

“We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren.  He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.”  1 John 3:14 (KJV)

 

EXPLANATION

The Apostle John wrote these words, under the inspiration of The Holy Spirit of God, to all believers.  John begins this third chapter of his first letter by talking about how good it is that they are called the children of God. (1 John 3:1-3)  He goes on to say that anyone who lives in Christ cannot continue living in sin. (1 John 3:4-6)  He repeats his earlier admonition to not let anyone lead them astray. (1 John 3:7-10)  Then he repeats his message that they should love one another and that they should not be surprised if the world hates them. (1 John 3:11-13)  He tells them that they know that they are saved, “… have passed from death to life …” because they love the brothers. (1 John 3:14)  John tells them that love is being willing to lay down ones’ life for his brother.  Christ laid down His life for them and they ought to be willing to lay down their life for each other. (1 John 3:16-18)  He says that if their hearts condemn them, God is greater than their hearts. (1 John 3:19-22)

 

APPLICATION

A large number of people say that they love The Lord but most of them do not live a life that shows it.  The proof that we really do love The Lord is in how we demonstrate our love for each other.  When we know and show that we love other Christians, then we know that we are truly children of God.  Love is an action word.  Saying it is meaningless if there is no action to follow it.  It does not matter how many times, or how passionately someone says it, if there is no behavior or action that shows or demonstrates it, then the words are hollow and meaningless.