1 John 5:19

We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one.

(v19, NIV)

John's audience is a certain group of people. These people are true believers and followers of the Lord Jesus Christ. According to the tests and proofs shown in this letter, they may know that they have eternal life. His readers should know that they are in fact children of God. Further inspection of these proofs or tests also reveals the opposite of their intended purpose. Not only does it confirm believers of their salvation, but it would hopefully reveal to non-believers their true condition. The current state and condition of all these people who are without God speaks of how lost and hopeless we are without God. It also shows us of the control and hold the evil one has on this world. Yet, as children of God, do not be afraid. Know that you are children of God, if in fact you are. That seems redundant or somewhat odd, but examine yourself to find out.

1 John 5:16-18

If anyone sees his brother commit a sin that does not lead to death, he should pray and God will give him life. I refer to those whose sin does not lead to death. There is a sin that leads to death. I am not saying that he should pray about that. All wrongdoing is sin, and there is sin that does not lead to death.

(v16-17, NIV)

With regards to praying for others, John presents an instance in which we are to pray. In this situation, if we see a brother commit a sin that does not lead to death, we are to pray for them. Our prayer for them will result in God giving them life. John goes on to say that since there are sins that do not lead to death, there are also sins that do lead to death. For these kinds of sins, we are not to pray for them. One thing to note is that the sin not leading to death is with regards to a brother. So, if we see a brother or sister in Christ who is sinning that does not lead to death, we are to pray for them. However, for the sin that does lead to death, it does not say whether this is a brother or not.

We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the one who was born of God keeps him safe, and the evil one cannot harm him.

(v18, NIV)

Is it even possible for a child of God to sin unto death? Of course not! We can see from this verse that anyone born of God does not continue in sin. The mere fact that they are one of his means that they will not continue in sin. In addition, it is not like anyone can remove a child of God from under God's wing. They cannot be removed from the flock. Though it may seem to use sometimes that a person falls away from the faith, the truth is that God keeps those that are his. Therefore, wouldn't it imply that those who "fall away" were never truly God's in the first place?

So, a child of God cannot continue in sin. Can a child of God sin unto death? If God keeps those who are his, how can they sin unto death? Now of course, this isn't a mere physical death. Rather, this "death" is referring to an eternal death. We're all going to die, so it doesn't make sense to distinguish between sin leading to death and sin not leading to death. Therefore, the prayer for one who is sinning not unto death seems to be for those who are brothers in Christ. Thus, ones who are sinning unto death are not children of God.

Now this seems weird. Why would we be not allowed to pray for those who are not children of God? Maybe further inspection of this prayer will reveal what is really meant here. The prayer results in God giving that person life. Children of God are his and on the path leading to life. Children of God are also ones who are characterized by repentance and living by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. However, what does everyone else do? Well, there is no turning or repentance of their sins. If this prayer results in life, what are we asking for? Now this isn't to say that we aren't to ask for non-believers to be saved. We are to preach to gospel to them and desire their salvation. However, the way in which we pray for believers is different from the way in which we pray for non-believers. Praying for sin not leading to death is a pray for those who are God's children. We pray for a sin we see and God will grant life to these who are children of God. Since children of God are characterized by repentance and leaning on the grace of God, they will repent for their sins. However, will those who are not children of God repent for their sins? We are not to simply ask for life for unrepentant people. We are to ask for their salvation through repentance and turning from their sins.

1 John 5:14-15

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.

(v14-15, NIV)

Apparently, there's a formula to getting what you ask for from God. John begins this with the aspect of confidence. There is confidence that we should have when we approach God. God is a God whom we can approach in prayer, and there is a level of confidence we can have. It's not fear or uncertainty that we have when we approach him. There is the fear of the Lord, but that is a different kind of fear.

So what is this confidence? If we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. This does not simply mean that our voice was audible to him. Looking to the next verse, we can see that it means more than just that. If he hears us, we have what we asked of him. Simply put, we'll get what we asked for.

Don't stop there. It's easy to simply read through this and forget the assumption made at the beginning of this. The thing we ask is assumed to be according to his will. So, if you ask for something that isn't according to his will, this whole thing doesn't apply. This isn't to say that we should only ask things according to his will. Rather, we should be confident in knowing that he hears us and things happen if it is according to his will. His will may be hard to discern, but that's not the point. If our requests line up with him, then things will happen. When it lines up, we're in line with God, and that's a good place to be in. Live in accordance to his will. Our requests are granted if they are aligned with his will. God will hear us.

What's interesting is that it says "we have". It seems to imply that we have already received or are currently in possession of the thing we asked for. The verse doesn't say "we will get what we asked for". It's almost as if the thing we ask for has already been put into motion, since it is according to God's will. Don't take this the wrong way; this doesn't mean that our prayers are useless. Rather, wouldn't it be great to be a part of God's will? It is quite a pleasure to be in the middle of God and the workings of his will. Pretty cool stuff.

1 John 5:13

I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.

(v13, NIV)

John seems to be bringing this to a close now. Here he tells us of why he writes these things. First of all, he is writing to those who believe in the name of the Son of God. This is the assumption for those who are reading. This isn't to say that if you don't believe that you shouldn't read this or can't get anything out of it. Rather, the purpose for his writing of this hinges on this assumption. The purpose is so that these people who believe may know that they have eternal life. His writing is to help them know and be assured of eternal life. Reading through 1 John we read of many "tests" that John describes. These are certain ways in which believers will in fact act and there are also certain ways in which non-believers will act. This way, believers can read and see if their lives fit in accordance with how their life should look like if they are true believers of Jesus. This isn't to say that these actions are the way in which people are given or granted eternal life. Rather, their actions prove that they are in fact true believers. Actions are mere evidences to the true state of their soul.

If this purpose if what John intends for those who believe in Jesus, what is the result for those who do not believe? He doesn't say it in this verse, but I don't think his hope is for people to be misled or confused. I don't think he intended for non-believers to be assured of eternal life because non-believers are not granted eternal life. Salvation is only by grace through faith in Jesus Christ our Lord. So, even though he didn't say it, I think John intended for non-believers to realize the true state of their soul. This isn't some cruel devious plan only finding joy in the suffering of others. Realizing your true state is important. If someone is driving along some dirt road leading off a cliff, wouldn't it be kind of a person to warn him of that danger? Or would you rather him think he's on a safe path leading to wherever he wants to go even if he is in fact heading to his death? If he is made aware of where his path is leading him, he is then able to turn around and go in a different direction. Whether he chooses to change directions or not is up to him. Similarly, I think John wants to warn those who are not believers of the true state of their soul so that they may eventually possibly be saved. Believers, read and learn and be assured of your salvation. If you do not believe, learn the true state of your soul, so that you may possibly be saved.

Matthew 24 -- the last day

Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains. "Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. (V7-9)

The last day is already here, lots of signs are already happening. What's next? This is what's next: We will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and we will be hated by all nations because of Jesus Christ.

Be prepared so that we won't be deceived.

1 John 5:12

He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.

(v12, NIV)

The testimony of God is concerning his son. Specifically, the last verse focuses in on eternal life. This eternal life is through God's son, so the testimony is still referring to Jesus. This life or eternal life is in the Son. Therefore, if you want this life, you must have the Son. So in this verse, it is clearly stated that those who have the son have life, and those who do not have the son do not have life. What's interesting is that it doesn't say "eternal life", but it only says "life". God gives us eternal life and this life is in his son. Not only do these people who do not have the son not have eternal life, but they don't have life at all. This life is in his son, and to have Jesus is to have life. To not have Jesus is to not have life at all. It is only through Jesus that we may live.

we can’t possibly accomplish anything without God

‘Apart from me you can do nothing.’ John 15:5

Every day we do everyday things without looking for God’s help, and we seem to manage. But the point is, when we’re in a spiritual work with spiritual goals we can’t possibly accomplish anything without God.

"And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that you would bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that your hand might be with me, and that you would keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested." 1 Chronicles 4:10

1 John 5:11

And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.

(v11, NIV)

In this verse, we find out what the testimony is. We've known from what John has said already. We knew it was concerning his son. However, in this verse the testimony is focused in on eternal life. This life is in his Son, so the testimony is still about Jesus. However, the focus on this testimony about his son is on God who has given us eternal life. It is in Jesus Christ who we believe. It is Jesus who gave his life for us. But it was God who sent his son to die for us. God gives us eternal life through Jesus Christ his son and it only through him that we may live.

1 John 5:10

Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Anyone who does not believe God has made him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony God has given about his Son.

(v10, NIV)

If we are a man (or woman) then our testimony is that of a man. John was just talking about how God's testimony is greater than the testimony of men. However, if we believe in his son, then God's testimony is in our heart. Therefore, the testimony in us that we can speak is the testimony of God and not that of men. With God's testimony in us, we become those who testify of what God testifies. We become proclaimers of the truth of his son. No longer is our testimony that of men, but it is the testimony of God, which is greater than man's testimony.

If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.

(1 John 1:10, NIV)

Looking back at chapter 1, we see that claiming to be without sin makes him to be a liar. Another way in which we make God to be a liar is if we do not believe God. This is fairly simple and easy to see how it makes sense. If we don't believe what someone says, we believe that what they are saying is not true. Therefore, we believe what they are saying to be a lie. Someone who tells lies is a liar, so we are calling that person a liar. In the same way, if we disbelieve what God says, we are calling him a liar. If you do not believe in God's testimony then you are calling him a liar. God testifies of his son, and if you do not believe in his son, you are calling God a liar. If you want to call God a liar, go ahead. But I wouldn't advise it; it is not a wise decision.

1 John 5:9

We accept man's testimony, but God's testimony is greater because it is the testimony of God, which he has given about his Son.

(v9, NIV)

If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater, for this is the testimony of God that he has borne concerning his Son.

(v9, ESV)

What's interesting is that the NIV begins with the word "we", but the ESV begins with the word "if". So, in the NIV, the statement is that we accept man's testimony, but in the ESV, we don't necessarily accept man's testimony. In the ESV, it's a condition that could go either way. Regardless, the fact remains that God's testimony is greater than the testimony of men. The reason why God's testimony is greater is because it is the testimony of God. That statement seems a bit weird. The thing in question is proof enough of why it is greater. It's as if I were to say "Bananas are better because they are bananas". It's weird to use the very thing in question as enough reason to prove its own merit. However, just because it is the testimony of God should be reason enough to explain why it is greater. Simply put, God's testimony is greater than the testimony of man because it is God who's giving the testimony. I'm picturing a parent speaking to their child. I feel as if too often kids refuse and question the instructions of their parents. Have they ever given you a reason similar to what we find here in verse 9? In response to a child's questioning, perhaps a parent responds by saying "-because I said so". Should the parent's authority be enough of a reason for the child to listen? God's authority should be enough of a reason as to why it is greater than the testimony of men.

What is God's testimony about? In the ESV, the reasoning seems to focus more towards what the testimony is about. The ESV does not have a comma separating the "for" part (or "because") from the rest of the verse. Regardless, the testimony of God in question is the testimony God has given about his Son. God has given a testimony about his Son and this testimony trumps any and all of the testimonies given by men. God's testimony is greater.

1 John 5:7-8

For there are three that testify: the Spirit, the water and the blood; and the three are in agreement.

(v7-8, NIV)

The Spirit testifies, but there are in fact three that testify. The Spirit, the water and the blood together testify. Now there are many false prophets and many different people saying many different things. Fortunately, the water, the blood and the Spirit are all in agreement. What do they testify about? They testify about Jesus!

1 John 5:6c

This is the one who came by water and blood—Jesus Christ. He did not come by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth.

(v6, NIV)

At the end of verse 6, John focuses in on the Spirit. The Spirit testifies. The reason the Spirit testifies is because the Spirit is the truth. How does the testimony of the Spirit tie in with this passage? Well, if we look ahead, we'll realize that John begins to talk about testimonies in the next section. He talks about the testimony of God and the testimony of man.

So the Spirit testifies and the Spirit is the truth. There are actually many different things or spirits that testify about many different things. There are all sorts of teachings or sayings or proclamations. Looking back to chapter 4, John talks about testing the spirits. We need to test the spirits to see whether they are from God. The problem is that there are many false prophets. These false prophets are testifying about false things. However, the Spirit is the truth and we need to learn how to distinguish between the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood.

1 John 5:6b

This is the one who came by water and blood—Jesus Christ. He did not come by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth.

(v6, NIV)

What does the blood refer to? Well I think most of us if not all of us know what blood is. We cut ourselves sometimes and we bleed. Blood flows through our veins and it is what our heart pumps. I'm not an expert on the matter, nor do I know the detailed intricacies of how the body works, but I think I have a general understanding of what blood is. However, "blood" in this case is different.

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.

(1 John 1:7, NIV)

Staying within the bounds of 1 John, we find the word "blood" in the first chapter. What does the blood of Jesus do? It is his blood that purifies us from all sin. Jesus' blood was shed on that cross and it was for us. We have sin and we are so deathly sinful. We are so dirty that we cannot come before a holy, righteous, pure and spotless God. But it is Jesus' blood that purifies us from our sins. He took upon himself our sins and God's rightful wrath that was due to us was poured out upon Jesus. It is his blood that cleanses us from our sins.

Jesus came by water and blood. It wasn't just by water, to bring cleansing and the cleansing work of the Holy Spirit, but it was also by blood. He came to shed his blood as an atoning sacrifice for us. Both work hand in hand are both are required. Someone can't claim to have the Holy Spirit, but not acknowledge the work of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. In addition, people can't claim to be saved through Jesus' blood but not have the Holy Spirit. The water and the blood are both necessary parts for the child of God and they are both part of what Jesus came by.

1 John 5:6

This is the one who came by water and blood—Jesus Christ. He did not come by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth.

(v6, NIV)

Only the person who believes that Jesus is the son of God is the one who overcomes the world. So who is this Jesus Christ? He is the one who came by water and blood. What does it mean to come by water and blood? Well Jesus came in the flesh, so is that what it meant by blood? Our bodies are made up of about 60% water, so is that what it means by him coming by water and blood? It is true that Jesus came in the flesh, but that is not what the water and blood are referring to.

Water holds great significance in the bible. In particular, the gospels use water to signify cleansing through baptism. Jesus was baptized and he also baptized others. In addition, the water is related to the Spirit.

Jesus answered, "I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, 'You must be born again.' The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit."

(John 3:5-8, NIV)

The pharisee Nicodemus comes to Jesus by night to ask him a few questions. During their discussion, Jesus tells Nicodemus about being born of water and the Spirit. Water is related to the Spirit. This is the cleansing of the Holy Spirit. This is the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus came by water and blood. The water signifies cleansing. In particular, this cleansing is related to the cleansing work of the Holy Spirit. When Jesus left, he sent us the Holy Spirit. We need cleansing, for we are dirty.

Do you believe that Jesus came by water? Why would he need to come by the water if we aren't dirty? In order to accept Jesus' coming by the water, we need to realize that we are dirty. We need the cleansing work of the Holy Spirit. He came by water and blood.

Romans 8 - no one can separate us from God, no one

"…In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Rom. 8:37 b-39)

Even the number of Christian is decreasing. Even the morel standard of this society is getting lower and lower. Even no one believes and worship God any more, but money. Even no one sing praise to Him, the stone on the streets will, and eventually the whole world will bow down to our God.

God is love. When the world don't know how to love because they don't know the source of love.

1 John 5:5

Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.

(v5, NIV)

It is the one believes that Jesus is the son of God who overcomes the world. It is only this person. There is no other person who will overcome the world. It is only the one who believes that Jesus is the son of God; this is why it says "only". The person who overcomes the world is not the person who is a "good guy", nor is it the person who is physically strong. Instead, it is the person who believes that Jesus is the son of God. Do you believe that Jesus is the son of God? Do you truly believe that Jesus is the son of God? Well, you will overcome the world.

1 John 5:4

for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.

(v4, NIV)

This verse begins with the word "for", linking it with the last verse. Love for God is obeying his commands. With regards to his commands, they are not burdensome. When you're carrying a huge load, the weight is burdensome while you're carrying it. It weighs you down and it is a hindrance while you're carrying it. But when you finally reach the place where you can put it down, it's not burdensome. Even while you're carrying it, maybe you're confident that you can carry it all the way. Maybe you know you've done it before or maybe someone who is weaker than you has carried it the same distance yesterday and you know you can do it with reference to him. Maybe someone's helping you carry the load, so it isn't as lonely or all on you. His commands are not burdensome and we can look forward to this overcoming and this victory at the end.

I don't like it when people ruin the ending for me. I'm sure a lot of people are the same and don't like it when someone spoils the story for you. Well, here's a spoiler alert: those who are born of God win in the end through victory in Christ. Sorry to ruin the ending, but that's what happens; everyone born of God overcomes the world. Knowing the ending and seeing the finish line ahead of us, following his commands is that much less burdensome. Of course we are carrying them out through this loving relationship we have for God. However, this is just another aspect as to why it is not burdensome.

At the beginning of this chapter, John established that those who believe that Jesus is the Christ are born of God. Now he is saying that everyone who is born of God overcomes the world. Since those born of God are also those who believe that Jesus is the Christ, it is easy to relate the next statement, which is about faith. This victory is through our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

1 John 5:3

This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome,

(v3, NIV)

So we are called to love God and obey his commands. In addition, we are to love his child and the children of God. So, how do we love God? This is stated plainly that love for God is obeying his commands. Loving God and obeying his commands are tied together in verse 2. However, loving God actually means to obey his commands. This means you can't claim to love God without obeying his commands. If you love God, you'll obey his command.

Apparently, his commands are not burdensome. Some may be quick to object to this statement, but take a moment and think about it. For myself, my initial objection is not necessarily whether his commands are burdensome or not. My initial rejection is with regards to how difficult it is to keep his commands. By that I mean that I fail constantly at attempts made to obey God. Look at your own life and you'll realize that you're not perfect. There was at least once in your life where you can recognize that you've done something wrong. However, his commands are not burdensome. They may be difficult to keep, but keeping them does not become this overarching burden that is so overwhelming that it is unable to carry. His commands are not burdensome. They are in fact good for us. Eating our vegetables may be undesirable, but they are in fact good and beneficial for us to eat. Especially when I was younger I didn't like eating my vegetables. I'm sure I'm not the only one; there were others who did not like eating their vegetables. However, I'm growing to like vegetables more and better understanding their benefits. Some I even enjoy the taste as to before when I despised it. You may despise God's commands and think they're really stupid. But he tells us to do them and he tells us that they're good for you. Do you claim to love him? How can you love him and not even trust him when he tells us good things about obeying his commands.

Obeying his commands is what those who love him do. They obedience is from a relationship of love. This outpouring of love is why these commands are not burdensome. Don't you find something is burdensome when you're heart or desire is not in it? However, for those who love God, their heart and desires are for him. As a result, why would these commands be burdensome? Obey his commands, they are not burdensome

Which branch am I from?

Do you ever been ask which church and branch you belongs to? And how do we usually response to this question.

Today I met a stranger in the library and so happen on her desk, she holds a Christian book and it caught me the attention. After a brief conversation with her, I learn that she is also a believer.

Then we introduce each other by saying which church we go to and which branch we belongs to sort of thing.....Seems like a lot of Christians like to label themselves with a branch or brand of church. But when I think to myself, which branch I really belongs to?

As Jesus said "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5).

Seems like it doesn't matter to Jesus that which church or branch we go to. If we are in Him, we are the church and the branches of Jesus. We abide in Jesus through the guidance of the Holy Spirit as one body. And as I have known Jesus through the Holy Spirit, I would have known the Father also (John 14:5).

Remember that we are the child of God. We are the branches of the vine. We shares the same joy being with the Father, but also remember that when we clams to live in him, we must also walk as Jesus did (1 John 2:6)

Walk as Jesus did including surrender your whole life and everything to God in return to gain the fullness of life;

Walk as Jesus did including crucified by the one you love from carrying the cross, but in return you know that they will be benefited;

Walk as Jesus did including.....

The question is, do we really belongs to Jesus? or we just admire the idea of Christianity, and we only wants to response to Jesus as minimal because we are scare of the consequence of sin?

James 4 - Why do I want the Holy Spirit?

"When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures." (V3)

I don't receive the Holy Spirit maybe because I ask for the wrong reason? or because I am not sincere enough. Why do I want the Holy Spirit? To make myself seems more righteous amount with others? Or because I want to experience what God's wills on me or want to better serve the body?

The reason prayer doesn't answer because it was asked with a wrong motives.

1 John 5:2

This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands.

(v2, NIV)

Everyone who loves the father loves the child as well. If this is another test, how do we confirm we meet the conditions? So, how do we know that we love the children of God? We know by loving God. That seems a bit odd. We can know that everyone who loves the father loves his child as well, but we prove that we love the children of God by loving God himself. Well, the initial child which is singular is referring to Jesus. Not only do we believe in his son, but we also love the son. The proof is not only in our loving God, but it is also proved by carrying out his commands. Do you really love the children of God? Do you really love God? Well, then listen to what he says and do what he says. Obedience is part of what shows us to love our brothers.

The Holy Who?

In the last post, I was wondering how to find true fellowship. From an article the Holy Who also explains that without involving the Holy Spirit in our work, there is no way to experience revival.

"I hear a lot of pointless talk on the Web about revival and how to rouse the sleeping Western Church, yet almost nothing about the Holy Spirit. I promise this: if we start preaching on the necessity of the Spirit to empower our lives to holiness, evangelism, and true manifestations of the Spirit’s power to a generation unimpressed with talk without walk, we’ll see revival."

Interesting. I want to understand more about the Holy Spirit, otherwise I will be only doing a lot of pointless Christian activities.

1 John 5:1

Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves the father loves his child as well

(v1, NIV)

Back in chapter 4, John mentions that everyone who loves has been born of God. Love comes from God and our outpouring of love to others is proof that we really are from God. In addition, John relates being born of God with those who do not continue in sin. Those who are not born of God are increasing and continuing in their sin. However, those who are born of God are doing the opposite.

Here in chapter 5, another relation is being made with being born of God. This time, John is saying that those who believe that Jesus is the Christ are those who are born of God. Do you believe that Jesus is the Messiah? Do you believe that he is the fulfillment of all those awesome scriptures that talk of the Christ? These people who put their hope and trust in Jesus in this way are those who are born of God.

John makes another statement about loving the father and loving the child. This is similar to what was mentioned in chapter 4. We are called to love our brother. These brothers are also children of God. This is a command he has given us. It goes hand in hand and we cannot claim to love God and hate our brother. It just doesn't work that way. Love your brother; love those who are the children of God.

What's interesting is that "child" is singular. This is referring to Jesus, who is God's child. Not only are we to believe in his son, but we are also to love him. Along with our belief in him is our love for him. Do you love Jesus? Or do you just "believe" in him, whatever that means?

1 John 1:1-4 -- the true fellowship and false fellowship

"That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. We write this to make our joy complete"

What is fellowship?

This question come to me again and again because I know there must be more than a "fellowship" gathering with "believers", yet I think I still can't exactly grasp the true meaning. I tried different things, but still fail. I know human fails and we are sinful and we can only be completed by renewing with the Holy Spirit. But what is that mean I wonder?

According to 1 John 1:1-4, I can find at least two ways to determine the true Christian fellowship:

1. It is grounded in the testimony of the Word of God. Not testimony or word of God along, but both together.

2. It is mutual, depending on the unity of Believers, just like the unity of God the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit.

I know true fellowship is more that these two criteria, and as study more I think I will probably enfold more wisdom from God to determine the truth, but I think if this two more fulfilled, very like the fellowship I go to will be good start.

Q: How can we find the true fellowship because seems like the standard for true fellowship is so high that isn't it you find so hard to find one at church or even at your city?

A: Jesus was with the Father and revealed to us on this sinful world. I wonder Jesus probably would never find one perfect place or group of people to "fellowship", because He is the light and the world is in the darkness. The conclusion is that it is not the place or the people around determine whether you have true fellowship, but it is determined by our attitude and our heart. The Bible promises us that we will be found if we sincerely seek. This is how we get the true fellowship: when we sincerely seek God, we will also find sincere seekers in the group; and "so that you may have fellowship with us" (v3)

The answer is actually right there in verse 3, but you will only find the answer when you seek for it, otherwise the Bible, or the Word of God is just a word with no power in your life.

1 John 1:1 -- how do we know the truth and the false

"That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life."

Some facts about the background. When 1 John was written by John, Christianity had already been around for more than a generation. At that time Jerusalem had been destroyed and Christian was indeed persecuted.

The main reason of John to write 1 John is to remind us to keep back to the right track as he has personally seen or heard of Jesus' teaching, yet Christians were starting to fall to the world's standard with increasing error teachings.

It is interesting to know when false teachers were already plentiful at church even within a generation from Jesus Christ, and to imagine how many more false teachers now in this generation even within in our church. It could be possible that whatever I have learnt from the paster or my Christian friends in the past was all false.

Q: I wonder how can we know the truth and false?

Maybe I can find out more in this in depth study of 1 John....

1 John 4:20-21

If anyone says, "I love God," yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. 21And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother.

(v20-21, NIV)

It is from God that we receive love; he shows us what love is by sending his son that we might live through him. God is love and love is made complete through living in love. God loves us and we must love our brothers. It is not God who loves us because we love, but God loves us first and then we love.

There are those who claim to love God. However, John states clearly that if that same person hates his brother, he is a liar. You cannot both hate your brother and love God. It doesn't make sense. In fact, we are even given the command that whoever loves God must also love his brother. God loves us and thus we can love our brothers and love God. However, you cannot love God without loving your brother. It doesn't make sense; we are commanded to love our brothers. John presents it as such: if we cannot even love our brothers who we can actually see, how can we love God who we have not seen?

Back in verse 17, when love is made complete among us, John also mentions that in this world we are like him. In addition, these people abide in God and God abides in them. Therefore, if these people are like God and have God abiding in them. We see these brothers who are Christ followers and emulating his likeness through him and we are called to love them. If we are unable to love these who has God abiding in them, how can we love the very same God when we can't even see them? Love God and love your brothers.

1 John 4:19

We love because he first loved us.

(v19, NIV)

This is what John has been talking about. God is the originator and author of love. He loves us and shows us what love is by his example. When he loves us first, we complete love by loving others as a result of his love for us. We love because he first loved us.

We can't go about saying that we loved God first. It just doesn't happen. We by nature choose evil instead of what is good. It is only by his love for us that we are able to love. Sure, we can love money and love ourselves and love all sorts of things. However, that is not the same as the love resulting from God's love for us.

1 John 4:18

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.

(v18, NIV)

Upon reading this my first reaction is to object and bring up the fear of the Lord. We are to fear God. However, this is not the same thing. The fear John is talking about in this passage is fear of punishment. The day of judgment is referenced in the previous verse. As children of God who have fellowship with him, we abide in him and he abides in us. In this love that has been made complete, there is no fear. The perfection and completion of this love drives out fear. It's the picture of driving something out of the house that is unwanted. Love drives out the unwanted fear that resides in the house. This fear is fear of punishment. This fear that resides in some is fear of punishment on the judgment day. However, if love is made complete in us, we will have confidence and not fear on the day of judgment. Perfect love drives out fear.

1 John 4:17

In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like him.

(v17, NIV)

God is love. When we live in love, we live in God and God in us. We have fellowship with God through the completion of love. This completion of love has been described as a triangle. At the top is God and at the bottom two corners are you and your neighbor. God is the originator of love and he shows us what love is and loves us. Then, we follow his example and we live in love by loving our neighbor. The completion of this comes back to God and completes the triangle.

When we complete this triangle and love is made complete among us, we have fellowship with God. God will certainly not destroy those who have fellowship with him on the Day of Judgment. We abide in him and God abides in us. God is true to his promises and he is a just God. For those who have fellowship with God, our sins have already been paid for by Jesus Christ who bore them.

We are like him in this world. God loves and is the originator of love. We love others, reflecting God love to them. By doing this, we are like God in this world. We do not need to fear the judgment. We have confidence in the Lord that he will be true to his promises and save those who are his. As his beloved children we need not fear. However, we must not be deceived into thinking that we are his when we are not. It is very easy to be deceived into thinking you are saved when you in fact are not. Be careful and do not be deceived.

1 John Blueprint

The three major points from 1 John is to present that God is light, God is love, and God is life. With John's first hand experience with Jesus Christ, it gives us confidence to our faith , especially when false teacher enters to church and deny Jesus' work for whatever reason, maybe because of their lack of faith, or their love for the world.

"In our dark world, God is light. In our cold world, God brings the warmth of love. In our dying world, God brings life."

1 John 4:16b

God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.

(v16b, NIV)

John makes this statement that God is love. Have you ever heard that? I've heard it said before, God is love. I've heard it said that this makes sense to say it about God because God is three persons in one (the Trinity). Love requires two people or two different things. Well, you can love yourself, but for the purpose of the illustration I've heard, I think it was discounted. To love is to give love and for another to receive it. If God is really three persons in one, God can be love because he can give love and receive love in a separate person of his personhood. If God was only one person, then he could only be described as loving and not as love.

Regardless of whether that makes sense or not, the fact remains that God is love. As we read earlier, those who love have been born of God and know God. God is the one who shows us what love is. He is the originator and the initial giver of love. If God is love, an equation is established. Therefore, those who live in love also live in God. This abiding is established again by relating to those who live in love. These people live in God and God in him.

The book of genealogy of Jesus Christ

The first thing mentioned on Matthew, the first book on the New Testament is the genealogy of Jesus Christ.

Wondering if people also like me, very often when I read the genealogy, I would just skip through all the names to the end "...whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ."

But I had a different experience today on genealogy. I actually read through every single name and in my mind I was imagining there are stories in every single name. They might had a easy life, or a tough one. They might be Godly, might be sinful in God's eye. But no matter what kind of life they had, they probably wouldn't imagine how significant their life was: to be part of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, our Saviour.

Sometime we may not find meaning of life, there maybe a time of laughter, and time of tears; a time to born, a time to die...But no matter what it is, who we are, what we have done...no matter we believe or not, the creator God has a purpose for everyone's life to fulfill His wonderful wills, whether we serve like Judas or like John.

Lamentations 3 -- They are new every morning

The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases;

his mercies never come to an end;

they are new every morning;

great is your faithfulness.

"The LORD is my portion," says my soul,

"therefore I will hope in him."

(Lamentations 3)

We need to discover God every day, because He is the infinity God. God is love, and He love us and His love never fail, but always able. The more we seek, the more we discovery, and the more we are awe and in love.

1 John 4:16a

And so we know and rely on the love God has for us.

(v16a, NIV)

So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us.

(v16a, ESV)

I was so struck by the word "rely" when first reading this verse. However, I soon came to realize that other translations did not have this word. Instead, "believe" is used in the ESV translation. Apparently, looking it up on blue letter bible proves that both are acceptable according to the definition, if that is enough proof for you. There is no dispute on the word "know" from these two translations. We come to know the love that God has for us. He has revealed it to us and shown us his love. In addition to that, we are to believe or rely on this love. In what way do we believe this love? Well, in what way do we disbelieve this love? There are many opponents and disbelievers of God's love. They may not believe in God, disbelieving that he even exists. Some hear of this love he has for us but do not believe it to be true. Some disbelieve the possibility of God even sending his son to take the punishment for all our sins that we might live; they may think God isn't like that. Some disbelieve it using evidences in their life to show why God doesn't act that way; some think because there is suffering a loving God cannot exist. However, for these who John is talking to, they believe in the love of God. These people have his Spirit and have seen and testify to the son which the father sent. They believe it to be true and put their faith in him.

What is the deal with the word "rely"? It's somewhat similar to believe. It is only by this love that God showed to us that we might live. The only way that we might live is if we live through him. We were on a path leading to destruction apart from this love of his. It is only by his love, and it is on this love that we rely. We must put our full weight upon this love. I've heard it described as weighing so heavily upon this support that if it did not exist we would completely and utterly fall. Rely on him and his love.

1 John 4:14-15

And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world.

(v14, NIV)

If you recall from the beginning of 1 John, John is speaking to a group of believers who have actually seen and heard and testify to the physical living Christ as he walked this earth. We have received his Spirit and have seen and testified to the Son whom the Father sent to be the savior of the world. What more proof do you need? Yet, some will be presented with such proof and not be swayed. Regardless, these are people who have seen and testified and are assured by a number of different things.

If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him and he in God.

(v15, NIV)

John follows with an assurance of those who acknowledge that Jesus is the son of God. Not only do these people have his Spirit, but they have seen and testify to Jesus who is the savior of the world. These things are evidences of certain people. These certain people are those whom God lives in and who live in God as well. God in you and you in him. An outpouring of his Spirit and testifying to the Son is what these people do.

1 Corinthians 10 -- Everything is permissible?

"You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is good for you. You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is beneficial. Don’t be concerned for your own good but for the good of others."

Not every detail things is mentioned in the bible, and people like to argue if we can do this and that.

Yes, we are allowed to do anything, but think not everything is good and beneficial. Love centered life is key from the whole Bible teaching. Love your God and others as yourself.

1 John 4:13

We know that we live in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit.

(v13, NIV)

This idea of abiding is continued here in this verse. We live in him and he in us. How is this even possible? If you live in something or someone, how can that same thing or person live in you at the same time? The only way it is possible is because he has given us his Spirit. Thus he lives in us through his Spirit that he has given to use to live in us.

Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;

(1 Corinthians 6:19, NIV)

This is the Holy Spirit that he has given us and resides in us. By this and through the Holy Spirit he lives in us. Proof of our living in him and he living in us is the Spirit he has given us.

Those who obey his commands live in him, and he in them. And this is how we know that he lives in us: We know it by the Spirit he gave us.

(1 John 3:24, NIV)

This is verse which is similar. Back in chapter three, John makes the same kind of statement, but it was with reference to us obeying his commands. However, in chapter four, John is talking about love in this section. This abiding in him and he in us is shown by those who obey his commands as was mentioned in chapter three. This is our part as an outpouring and result of God's saving power in us and not of our own strength. Looking to chapter four, God's love is part of this equation as well. We are to obey his commands and this is part of the abiding, but God's love for us and our reacting love for others is also part of this abiding relationship we have with him.

Stepping back for a second, it's pretty cool how it works. In chapter three, John talks about obeying his command. Jesus obeys the Father and we are to obey this command which Jesus gave us. In addition, this command was to love one another, which is what Jesus did for us. In chapter four when John talks about this abiding again, he is talking about God's love for us. His sending of his son is how he showed us what love is and his love for us. We are to love one another as a result or reaction from his love for us. It connects and relates and is really quite amazing. God is pretty cool and he amazes me all the time with little things like this all the time. Hopefully not to overshadow or outweigh the one and only gospel which is truly awesome. But, it's cool how God reveals himself in different ways.

1 John 4:12

No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

(v12, NIV)

There is much talk about abiding and living in someone in 1 John. Another example is here where by loving one another, God lives in us. This love we show to others is an outpouring or result of God's love for us. In addition, it does not originate from us, but it originates from God. God is love and he shows us love through his son Jesus Christ. By loving one another, we prove that God lives in us. It also seems to be the idea of God among us when in reality we cannot physically see God. John points this out at the beginning of the verse: no one has ever seen God. However our act of loving one another proves and shows God living in us.

There is also this aspect of completeness. John ends this verse and paragraph by saying that his love is made complete in us. This completeness is being referred to loving one another. Love is not complete until we love one another. Love is only in part or partial if we are not giving love. If we only receive, it is not complete. Love is made complete when we love one another. It's like a cycle and the cycle is not complete if it stops with you. When you receive love, we birth a passion and desire to love others. By doing so love is made complete in us.

Don't Waste Your Life

"Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead" Philippians 3:13

My tips of life: If next moment was ur last breath, would you still do what you do? Don't Waste Your Life by John Pipper

Tips #2: Stay focused, and don't be cautious what others think of you, but be cautious of what your master think of you. A evil lazy serven or a responsible one. It’s always day one of your future. http://bit.ly/blFuRP

1 John 4:11

Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

(v11, NIV)

Love comes from God. In the sending of his son, he shows us his love for us. Since God loved us, we should love one another. This love is so amazing that it should burst in you a desire to do the same to others. To not love one another would be to prove that you never truly received it or were thankful for it. Furthermore, you displease him who gave you whatever you took for granted.

I am reminded of a parable Jesus told. In Matthew 18, Jesus tells a parable of a servant who has a great debt to the king, but is shown mercy by his debtor. However, there is a servant who owes him money, but he is not merciful. When the king finds out how the servant was unmerciful to his fellow servant, he is outraged and it ends poorly for that servant.

"Then the master called the servant in. 'You wicked servant,' he said, 'I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?' In anger his master turned him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.

(Matthew 18:32-34, NIV)

This passage is not talking about love. Instead it is talking about forgiveness and mercy. However, the servant was shown mercy and expected to show mercy. Similarly, God shows us love and we should show love to one another. Let us love one another.

1 John 2:28,29

"And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming. If you know that he is righteous, you know that everyone who does what is right has been born of him."

No matter what happens in life, always remain in Him. He is our center of life. If we are in Him, we should know what is righteous and be transform to move toward to righteous, even we fail.

This is a battle to fight, especially our emery is satan, a very real being whom to deceive us and try to get away us from the Father. Oh Lord, even the world is going to against you or misunderstand you, I pray that I can be the little light for you in the darkness. I am weak, but I desire you. Thanks for disciplining me.

1 John 4:10

This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.

(v10, NIV)

We are even given another example to tell us what love is. Love is that God loved us and sent his only son for us. Jesus is the atoning sacrifice for our sins. This is similar to the last verse, but it begins by saying that love is not that we loved God. When we love God, that isn't really love. Again we are reminded that God is the originator and author or love. We shouldn't pride ourselves in our ability to "love". Instead, God is the author or love who shows us what love is by loving us first. Our love for him pales in comparison to his love for us. His love for us is the real deal. Look to him and his love as the real love and the originator or love. Love comes from God.

I hate the value of the world. I hate to see brothers and sisters and even myself are being eaten up by the media. The darkness is growing. Oh Lord, give us the wisdom to determine right and wrong. I am tried carrying your cross, yet I am grateful. I am strong only because of you. Please come back soon.

1 John 4:9

This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.

(v9, NIV)

In the last chapter, John uses the example of Jesus to show that this is how we know what love is. Jesus' actions were an example to show us what love is. This time, focusing on God the Father, we see that this is how God showed his love among us. Using the same example, but it was God who is the focus this time. God is the one who sent his son into the world. The reason why he did this was so that we might live through him. It is only through him that we are able to live. Aside from this, there is no way that we could live. We are dead in our trespasses and sins. It is only by this love that God showed to use that we might be able to live through him.

Love comes from God. This is the example for which love comes from God. From God was this outpouring of love through his sending of his son for our sake. It is through this act of love that we might live through him.