![Belem, Lisbon, Portugal DESCRIPTION The Jerónimos Monastery or Hieronymites Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Portuguese pronunciation: [muʃˈtɐjɾu ðuʃ ʒɨˈɾɔnimuʃ]), is a former monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome near the Tagus river in the parish of Belém, in the Lisbon Municipality, Portugal.](https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/sancta-91eb1.firebasestorage.app/o/blog-images%2Fscripture%2F90610364.webp?alt=media&token=2a64174b-dc18-448b-92f4-cce1f042c9a7)
In 1 John 2, we are reminded of our connection to Jesus as our advocate and the significance of living righteously. This chapter invites us to reflect on our actions and relationships with others.
The Reading: 1 John 2
World English Bible1 My little children, I write these things to you so that you may not sin. If anyone sins, we have a Counselor with the Father, Jesus Christ, the righteous.
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2 And he is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the whole world.
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3 This is how we know that we know him: if we keep his commandments.
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4 One who says, “I know him,” and doesn’t keep his commandments, is a liar, and the truth isn’t in him.
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5 But whoever keeps his word, God’s love has most certainly been perfected in him. This is how we know that we are in him:
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6 he who says he remains in him ought himself also to walk just like he walked.
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7 Brothers, I write no new commandment to you, but an old commandment which you had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which you heard from the beginning.
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8 Again, I write a new commandment to you, which is true in him and in you; because the darkness is passing away, and the true light already shines.
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9 He who says he is in the light and hates his brother, is in the darkness even until now.
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10 He who loves his brother remains in the light, and there is no occasion for stumbling in him.
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11 But he who hates his brother is in the darkness, and walks in the darkness, and doesn’t know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.
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12 I write to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name’s sake.
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13 I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I write to you, little children, because you know the Father.
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14 I have written to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God remains in you, and you have overcome the evil one.
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15 Don’t love the world or the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, the Father’s love isn’t in him.
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16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, isn’t the Father’s, but is the world’s.
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17 The world is passing away with its lusts, but he who does God’s will remains forever.
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18 Little children, these are the end times, and as you heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have arisen. By this we know that it is the final hour.
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19 They went out from us, but they didn’t belong to us; for if they had belonged to us, they would have continued with us. But they left, that they might be revealed that none of them belong to us.
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20 You have an anointing from the Holy One, and you all have knowledge.
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21 I have not written to you because you don’t know the truth, but because you know it, and because no lie is of the truth.
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22 Who is the liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the Antichrist, he who denies the Father and the Son.
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23 Whoever denies the Son, the same doesn’t have the Father. He who confesses the Son has the Father also.
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24 Therefore, as for you, let that remain in you which you heard from the beginning. If that which you heard from the beginning remains in you, you also will remain in the Son, and in the Father.
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25 This is the promise which he promised us, the eternal life.
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26 These things I have written to you concerning those who would lead you astray.
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27 As for you, the anointing which you received from him remains in you, and you don’t need for anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is no lie, and even as it taught you, you will remain in him.
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28 Now, little children, remain in him, that when he appears, we may have boldness, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.
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29 If you know that he is righteous, you know that everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him.
What This Chapter Is Really Saying
An Advocate for Us
The chapter opens with a comforting assurance: Jesus Christ is our advocate when we stumble. He isn't just a lawyer in a courtroom; He's the one who takes the fall for us. His sacrifice means that our sins can be forgiven, not just for a select few but for the entire world.
Knowing Him Through Actions
John emphasizes that truly knowing Jesus isn't just about saying it; it's about living it. If someone claims to know Him but doesn't follow His teachings, they're deceiving themselves. Real love for God is shown through obedience to His commandments, and those who walk in the light of His love will naturally share that light with others.
The Old and New Commandments
There's a twist in the message as John presents both an old commandment and a new one. The old commandment is simple: love one another. The new part? Loving isn't just a nice idea; it's a way to step out of darkness and into the light.
Warning Against Hatred
John warns that if someone claims to live in the light but harbors hatred in their heart, they're lost in darkness. Love isn't just a feeling; it's a choice that drives us to treat others with kindness and respect.
The End Times and Staying True
As he addresses the community, John reminds them of the challenging times they face, referring to the presence of 'antichrists' - those who twist the truth about Jesus. He reassures them that they possess the Holy Spirit's anointing, which empowers them to discern truth from falsehood.
Remaining in Him
Finally, John encourages them to remain steadfast in the teachings they received from the beginning. This connection promises eternal life and a boldness to stand before Christ when He returns.
Why It Matters
The Call to Love
1 John 2 plants the idea that love isn't optional; it's the foundation of our faith. Loving others is essential to living in the light. When we engage with our community - whether through a simple hello or more meaningful relationships - we reflect Christ's love.
Navigating Darkness
John's caution against hatred serves as a reminder for us to examine our hearts. It's easy to get wrapped up in our frustrations, but choosing love can break the cycle of negativity. In a world that can feel dark at times, being a light can help illuminate paths for ourselves and others.
Finding Strength in Community
In these challenging times, the assurance that we guide each other through faith is powerful. Whether you're exploring faith or looking to deepen your connection, finding a supportive community can make all the difference. Check out find a church near you to connect with others on this journey.
Living with Purpose
Ultimately, this chapter challenges us to reflect on how we live our lives. Doing God's will isn't just about rituals; it's about living righteously and making choices that reflect His love and truth. Our faith is lived out through our actions, and that's what truly matters.
Coming Up Next: 1 John 3
In the next part of our journey through 1 John, we'll explore how love shapes our identity as children of God. Get ready to uncover profound truths about belonging and righteousness!