Summary of my sermon, based on 1 John 5:13-21. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on May 21, 2023.
As a teenager, my love for reading often led to humorous situations, like walking into telephone poles or missing bus stops. One series that captivated me was the fictionalized portrayal of end-time prophecy in the “Left Behind” books. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of assurance in our faith, drawing inspiration from the book of 1 John. Like the believers in John’s time, we may struggle with doubts and insecurities. However, through the assurances provided by the Gospel, we can find confidence in our salvation and a deeper understanding of God’s truth.
Assurance of Eternal Life
In 1 John 5:13, the apostle writes to believers, assuring them of eternal life. While doubts about our salvation are natural, they do not diminish our relationship with God. We are reminded of Romans 5:6-11, where we learn that Christ’s love surpasses our weaknesses and doubts. The goal is to grow in faith, gradually diminishing our doubts and embracing the assurance of eternal life.
Assurance of Answered Prayer
Through 1 John 5:14-15, we gain assurance that God hears our prayers when aligned with His will. Prayer connects us with God, bringing peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:6-7). We are encouraged to pray for our brothers and sisters who may have fallen away, trusting that God can bring them back to obedience. However, there is a distinction between sins that lead to death and sins that do not, reminding us of the limitations of prayer for those who persistently reject the Gospel.
Assurance of Understanding
John affirms in 1 John 5:20-21 that the Son of God has given believers understanding. We have direct access to God through Jesus Christ, reinforcing the concept of the Priesthood of All Believers. Proverbs 30:5 and Psalm 119:9-11 emphasize the reliability of God’s Word and the importance of storing it in our hearts. The purpose of this understanding is to guide us in walking worthy of the Lord and growing in the knowledge of God (Colossians 1:9-10).
Just as doubts and insecurities may have plagued my teenage years, many believers experience moments of uncertainty in their faith. However, 1 John provides valuable assurances that can strengthen our confidence in the Gospel. By embracing the assurance of eternal life, trusting in the answered prayers according to God’s will, and seeking understanding through His Word, we can find peace and assurance in our journey of faith. Let us remember to keep ourselves from idols, staying focused on the truth of God’s promises.