(1) Main ideas:
2 advantages of loving in deed and truth v.18-19
(a) we know that we are of the truth;
(NET) By this refers to the righteous deeds mentioned at the end of 3:18, the expressions of love. It is by doing these deeds that believers assure themselves that they belong to the truth, because the outward action reflects the inward reality of their relationship with God. Put another way, ‘conduct is the clue to paternity.’
(b) we will convince our conscience if our conscience condemns us.
(BKC) if his heart condemns him, he can remind himself that God takes account of those things which at the moment his heart ignores. If he has been engaged in the kind of practical acts of love which John enjoined, his guilt-ridden heart can be persuaded by realizing that God is well aware of his fundamental commitment to the truth.
2 advantages if our hearts did not condemn us: v.21-22
(a) we have confidence in the presence of God; (b) whatever we ask we receive from Him because we keep His commandments and do the things that are pleasing to Him
Who can keep His commandments and get all these advantages: The person who resides in God and God in Him v.24a.
How do we know we have God resides in us? By the Spirit He has given in us v.24b
(2) Summary:
- When we practice truth and give love to others we are the one who benefits. It is because we know that there is really something in our heart, i.e. truth.
- We also know that even when we do not do enough our hearts can be at rest. We trust that God will not condemn us and we can ask God to help the brothers and sisters in need. We just follow His commandments to love one another and do the things that pleases God.
- The Holy Spirit in us will help us to continue to keep His commandments.
(3) Reflection:
- Note, the confidence from God does not come from just knowing the truth, but in practicing the truth. Of course, we all know that doing is much harder than knowing. However, if we do not practice the truth, we will never have the confirmation that comes out from it.
- Second, even when we practice the truth we may also have a guilty feeling in our hearts that we do not do enough. How wonderful it is to feel that we always feel at debt when we love one another (Romans 13:8a 13:8 Owe no one anything, except to love one another...).
- Finally, no one should be proud when we love one another: we do this just because God lives in us. We just cannot deal with the prompting of the Holy Spirit until we love one another.
Audrey
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