1 John 3:16 AMPC
[16] By this we come to know (progressively to recognize, to perceive, to understand) the [essential] love: that He laid down His [own] life for us; and we ought to lay [our] lives down for [those who are our] brothers [in Him].
The writer of this letter is called John the beloved, and he was one of Jesus’ closest disciples, known for his deep love, devotion, and intimate relationship with Christ. He was also the brother of James, both fisherman by background, and part of Jesus’ inner circle alongside Peter. Another interesting fact about John was that he described himself as the disciple whom Jesus loved, not as a sign of favoritism, but as a reflection of his deep understanding of God’s love towards him, and his acceptance of Christ’s love. It is not that much of a surprise that he demonstrated his loyalty by staying with Jesus even at the cross, where he was entrusted with the care of Jesus’ mother.
John had a deep understanding of love, truth, and the price that was paid to secure full and free salvation for all mankind. This is why the whole of 1 John is a revelation of the love of God, and what is expected of us who are the targets of this love. This is not a reality or an experience that can be kept personal; yes, it starts as something personal, but its value and effect cannot be kept personal. If I know I am loved, and that there is an eternal plan for me, it will impact everything I do, and how I do them. I will keep an eye on that eternal goal even as I also seek to make as many people as possible aware of who I have come to know and what I am in line to inherit.
All the benefits listed above were made possible and attainable simply because Jesus submitted to the cross. There would have been no crown to look forward to if there was no cross. There would have been no glory to aspire to if there was no pain. God's love may never be fully understood if we did not see a practical demonstration of that love. What He did was to pay the full price for past, present and future sin. Reflect on this: even the sins that I will commit in the future and truly repent of have already been atoned for. Even for children yet unborn, as long as this earth remains in place, their sin is already atoned for, if they come to the saving knowledge of Jesus, before He returns to take His own home.
This calls for deep reflection, leading to the right and appropriate response. I cannot afford to let all that Jesus has done go to waste. I have the right example to follow; One has laid down His life for me. He gave me His all so that there is nothing too big for me to lay down for Him. It may not necessarily mean dying, but it is about submission and humility in true service for other people. Do people see the mark of Jesus in and on me? Can men point to a remarkable difference in my attitude and response to, as well as my interaction with other people? Can I truly lay down my life for my brothers, comfortable in the knowledge and personal experience of the love I have already received? God's time of favour is here.
No comments:
Post a Comment