Today, we’re diving into the rich wisdom of 1 John once more, specifically exploring 1 John 2:1-6. In this passage, we encounter profound insights about the advocacy of Jesus and the importance of obedience in our walk with Him. Nothing is more encouraging to me than knowing Jesus is pleading my case. He is sitting at the right hand of the judge and is the judge’s son. That’s better than Morgan and Morgan! Jesus has never lost a case, even mine! Let’s unpack these truths together and glean practical wisdom for our spiritual journey.
Verse 1: Jesus, Our Advocate
Scripture (1 John 2:1): “My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.”
Reflection Questions:
- What comfort do you find in knowing that Jesus is our advocate?
- How does the concept of Jesus advocating for us impact your understanding of grace and forgiveness?
Old Testament Connection: Reflect on Isaiah 53:12 where the prophet speaks of the Messiah bearing the sin of many and making intercession for transgressors. How does this connect with Jesus as our advocate in 1 John?
Verses 2-3: Obedience as Evidence of Love
Scripture (1 John 2:2-3): “He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments.”
Reflection Questions:
- How does obedience serve as evidence of our relationship with Jesus?
- In what ways do you actively seek to keep Jesus’ commandments in your daily life?
Old Testament Connection: Consider Deuteronomy 6:5 where God commands His people to love Him with all their heart, soul, and might. How does this relate to the call for obedience in 1 John?
Verses 4-6: Walking in the Light
Scripture (1 John 2:4-6): “Whoever says ‘I know him’ but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.”
Reflection Questions:
- What does it mean to “walk in the same way in which he walked”?
- How does the call to imitate Jesus’ walk impact your daily decisions and interactions?
Old Testament Connection: Reflect on Micah 6:8 where the prophet exhorts God’s people to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with their God. How does this align with the call to walk as Jesus walked in 1 John?
Practical Application: Advocacy, Obedience, and Imitation
Reflection Questions:
- How can you lean into Jesus’ advocacy in times of struggle and temptation?
- What steps can you take to cultivate a lifestyle of obedience to Jesus’ commandments?
- In what areas of your life can you strive to imitate Jesus’ example more closely?
Reflection and Discussion: Let’s Talk!
- Share a personal experience where you felt the impact of Jesus’ advocacy in your life.
- How does obedience to Jesus’ commandments contribute to your spiritual growth and maturity?
- What challenges do you face in imitating Jesus’ walk, and how can we support one another in this journey?
The Gospel Appeal to the Lost
To those who may be wrestling with sin, uncertainty, or a desire for spiritual direction, remember that Jesus stands ready to advocate for you before the Father. His grace is available to all who turn to Him in repentance and faith. If you’re searching for hope and forgiveness, know that Jesus offers a path of redemption and reconciliation. Embrace His advocacy and walk in the light of His love.
Conclusion: Advocacy, Obedience, and Imitation
That concludes our exploration of 1 John 2:1-6. May we take comfort in Jesus’ advocacy, strive for obedience to His commandments, and earnestly seek to walk in the footsteps of our Savior. Stay tuned for more insights as we journey through the book of 1 John together!
Call to Action: Embrace Jesus’ Advocacy and Walk in His Light
Share the hope! Share this post with someone who might be encouraged by the assurance of Jesus’ advocacy and the call to obedience and imitation. Let’s walk together in the light of His love, supporting and uplifting one another along the way. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights into the amazing journey of faith! Never forget that Jesus took your case!