I John 3:10

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By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother.

THE STUDY:

John starts off this verse in reference to the previous verses, “By this it is evident.” John, again, makes a tender reference to his flock, “who are the children of God.” John makes it very clear throughout his writings that a believers actions, motives, and words will be that of righteousness (Christ). John insists that righteousness is relational. It is relational first toward God—“children of God.” This brings a positive relationship toward others. One rightly related to God will love his “brothers.”^[1]

In this entire letter John presents our existence in terms of two categories: you are either a child of God or you are a child of the devil. John sees only absolutes: light or darkness, truth or the lie, God or the devil, life or death. For him there is no middle ground. There are no alternatives.^[2]

WHAT WE CAN WALK AWAY WITH ….

• We walk away this morning with the understanding that we live in a world that is split: light or darkness, truth or lies, Good or evil, God or NOT! We will make a choice in which world to live in. If we choose Christ then we have hope, power, and a rich future (Listen to the Sermon from 11/20/11). Some may think they don’t have to choose! In that case you have made your choice, NOT GOD!

CONCLUSION:

           The mayor of Toronto launched a “Light the Night” campaign. The idea was for residents to leave their lights burning overnight in order to discourage crime. A similar campaign was carried out in the Oakland, California, area, and reports show that crime was greatly reduced—in fact, reduced fantastically.

          John encourages his readers to live in the light so that darkness is discouraged and dispersed. My encouragement for us today is the same, let the light shine in our hearts so we may cast that light into this dark world.

Blessings my friends

Pastor Rod

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^[1] Williamson, R. (2010). 1, 2, & 3 John: A Commentary in the Wesleyan Tradition. New Beacon Bible Commentary (119). Kansas City, MO: Beacon Hill Press.

^[2] Kistemaker, S. J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953-2001). Vol. 14: New Testament commentary : Exposition of James and the Epistles of John. New Testament Commentary (304). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.