“Know Christ Jesus By Obeying His Commands!”

“Know Christ Jesus By Obeying His Commands!”
John wrote so that those who read him “will not sin.” But he also knew that we do not come to Christ standing on the same pedestal of strength. Some people may be more resistant to the wiles of the devil than others. Therefore he continues with a “But…”
To the majority, getting to full conversion to Christ is not as dramatic as was the case of Paul. Unlike Paul, the full knowledge of Christ came to the Twelve progressively; it wasn’t eventual. So it is with the majority.
Full conversion is when “we know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands.” Until this happens, we continue in the process of turning to Christ. It is a process because knowing Christ does not just suddenly happen. Conversion is turning to Christ by turning away from the things of the world and becoming a new creation in Christ. It is a process because in our lives there are many turnings to do.
Even so, while turning, we often have lapses; for as long as we are imperfect beings, it is a long winding road to arrive at our full potentials in Christ. That is why John continues, “But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense – Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins…”
My friend, we have arrived at that point where I speak for myself, expecting you to do the same for yourself. The Scriptures convict me, such that I cannot say I know him when I have not fully obeyed his commands. I cannot add to my sins by being a liar that I know him. Everyday I work had to improve upon my life to become a better me as I trudge this road of faith. In those areas where I have improved by his set standards, I become convinced that “God’s love is truly made complete in me.”
Whenever I overcome, I know that I live in him because I tread the path that he trod (I Jn.2:1-6).
My friend, sin is real and it is a barrier that blocks us from fellowship with God. Jesus Christ is the only person who has removed that barrier. When we come to a deadend, he is the only Advocate for our defense. No other name but Christ Jesus saves! Walk with him where you have overcome, and lay your case before him when you have faltered.
Weekend prayer: Holy Spirit help me to know Jesus Christ by obeying his commands. Amen!
Have a blessed weekend! Peace be with you!