1 John Chapter 2:15-29 ?"Do Not Love the World" and "The Promise of Eternal Life"

1 John Chapter 2:15-29 from the Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC). This passage addresses the themes of "Do Not Love the World" and "The Promise of Eternal Life"

Now Let’s Eat Some Meat!

“Do not love or cherish the world or the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh [craving for sensual gratification] and the lust of the eyes [greedy longings of the mind] and the pride of life [assurance in one’s own resources or in the stability of earthly things]—these do not come from the Father but are from the world [itself]. And the world passes away and disappears, and with it the forbidden cravings (the passionate desires, the lust) of it; but he who does the will of God and carries out His purposes in his life abides (remains) forever. Boys (lads), it is the last time (hour, the end of this age). And as you have heard that the antichrist [he who will oppose Christ in the guise of Christ] is coming, even now many antichrists have arisen, which confirms our belief that it is the final (the end) time. They went out from our number, but they did not [really] belong to us; for if they had been of us, they would have remained with us. But [they withdrew] that it might be plain that they all are not of us. But you have been anointed by [you hold a sacred appointment from, you have been given an unction from] the Holy One, and you all know [the Truth] or you know all things. I write to you not because you are ignorant and do not perceive and know the Truth, but because you do perceive and know it, and [know positively] that nothing false (no deception, no lie) is of the Truth. Who is [such a] liar as he who denies that Jesus is the Christ (the Messiah)? He is the antichrist (the antagonist of Christ), who [habitually] denies and refuses to acknowledge the Father and the Son. No one who [habitually] denies (disowns) the Son even has the Father. Whoever confesses (acknowledges and has) the Son has the Father also. As for you, keep in your hearts what you have heard from the beginning. If what you heard from the first dwells and remains in you, then you will dwell in the Son and in the Father [always]. And this is what He Himself has promised us—the life, the eternal [life]. I write this to you with reference to those who would deceive you [seduce and lead you astray]. But as for you, the anointing (the sacred appointment, the unction) which you received from Him abides [permanently] in you; [so] then you have no need that anyone should instruct you. But just as His anointing teaches you concerning everything and is true and is no falsehood, so you must abide in (live in, never depart from) Him [being rooted in Him, knit to Him], just as [His anointing] has taught you [to do]. And now, little children, abide (live, remain permanently) in Him, so that when He is made visible, we may have and enjoy perfect confidence (boldness, assurance) and not be ashamed and shrink from Him at His coming. If you know (perceive and are sure) that He [Christ] is [absolutely] righteous [conforming to the Father’s will in purpose, thought, and action], you may also know (be sure) that everyone who does righteously [and is therefore in like manner conformed to the divine will] is born (begotten) of Him [God].”

Do Not Love the World:? (Verses 15-17)

In these verses, the Apostle John issues a profound spiritual admonition to believers: "Do not love or cherish the world or the things that are in the world." The "world" here represents the secular, godless values and desires that stand in contrast to the divine. John identifies three key aspects of this worldly allure: "the lust of the flesh," which encompasses our physical desires and appetites; "the lust of the eyes," signifying our longing for material possessions and sensory pleasures; and "the pride of life," which reflects our inclination to rely on our own abilities and achievements, rather than on God.

John emphasizes that these worldly desires do not originate from God but are rooted in the fallen human condition. Furthermore, he underscores the temporal nature of the world, stating that it "passes away and disappears." In contrast, those who align themselves with God's will and purpose will experience eternal life. The relevance of this message for contemporary believers is evident in a world characterized by consumerism, materialism, and the relentless pursuit of personal pleasure. In this context, John's message serves as a timeless reminder to prioritize our relationship with God and to understand that the world's attractions are fleeting, while the promise of eternal life in Christ endures.

Antichrists and Apostasy: (Verses 18-19)

John shifts his focus to address a specific challenge faced by the early Christian community: the emergence of antichrists. He declares, "It is the last time," signifying the eschatological aspect of their faith, suggesting that the return of Christ is imminent. Antichrists, who claim to follow Christ but actually oppose Him, have arisen. John explains that these false teachers were once part of the Christian community but departed to reveal that they were never truly of the faith.

The relevance of this message for contemporary believers lies in the ongoing presence of false teachings and those who distort the essence of Christianity. In a world marked by religious diversity and various belief systems, believers are encouraged to discern genuine faith from counterfeit versions. This serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of genuine faith and discernment in the face of deceptive teachings.

Confessing Christ and Knowing the Truth: (Verses 20-23)

John reminds believers that they have received an anointing from the Holy One, which empowers them to discern and know the truth. He emphasizes that anyone who denies Jesus as the Christ (Messiah) is antichrist, as such denial rejects both the Son and the Father. In essence, true knowledge of God and Christ is connected with a faithful confession of Jesus as the Savior and Messiah.

The relevance for today's believers is in acknowledging the centrality of Jesus Christ in the Christian faith. In a world with various religious and philosophical beliefs, the clear confession of Jesus as Lord and Savior remains fundamental to Christianity. This passage reminds believers that their faith is anchored in the acknowledgment of Jesus as the Son of God, who reveals the Father.

Abiding in Christ and the Role of the Holy Spirit: (Verses 24-27)

John underscores the importance of believers keeping the truths they have heard from the beginning. He asserts that this steadfast adherence to God's Word enables believers to abide in both the Son and the Father. John further highlights the role of the anointing (the Holy Spirit) received from God, which teaches believers, guides them, and helps them distinguish between truth and falsehood. As such, believers are encouraged to abide in Christ and rely on the Holy Spirit's guidance.

The relevance for contemporary believers is in maintaining a strong, unwavering commitment to God's Word and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. In an era marked by skepticism and relativism, believers must cling to the unchanging truth of God's Word and depend on the Holy Spirit for guidance in navigating complex moral and spiritual issues.

Confidence in Christ's Return and Righteous Living: (Verses 28-29)

John concludes his discourse by urging believers to abide in Christ so that they may have perfect confidence and not be ashamed when He returns. He emphasizes that Christ is righteous, and those who practice righteousness are born of God.

The relevance for today's believers lies in the assurance of Christ's return and the call to live righteous lives. In a world filled with uncertainty and moral ambiguity, believers can find hope and confidence in the promise of Christ's return. They are called to demonstrate their faith through righteous living, which aligns with God's will and purpose.

In conclusion, 1 John 2:15-29 offers a comprehensive and timeless message for today's believers, addressing the need to resist worldly temptations, discern false teachings, confess Christ as Lord, rely on the Holy Spirit, and live righteously while anticipating Christ's return. These teachings continue to guide and inspire believers in navigating the challenges of the modern world and remaining steadfast in their faith.

If You Have Ears To Hear, Then Hear It!