Page 79 - General Epistles (James through Jude) Textbook

Deut. 17:6; 19:15). The Holy Spirit testifies to the truth about Jesus Christ. In as much as those witnesses
were on point, however, on this one, one witness (and that of God) is the greatest because it is coming
from God Himself given about His Son, Jesus Christ. So, whoever believes in the testimony that God has
given concerning His Son will have eternal life. That eternal life is in Jesus Christ Himself. So, if one has
the Son of God, he/she has life.

In concluding his writing, John assured his audience that they have eternal life. This is also the purpose
statement for apostle John. As a result, they have confidence to ask for anything from God in the name
of Jesus. But then, they should do so in accordance with the will of God. Kruse notes that “To pray
effectively, believers’ prayer requests need to be in accordance with the teaching of Scripture
concerning what pleases God.” Even though that is generally true, however, elsewhere, we read that
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Christians do not always have what they ask for. Scriptures emphasize on the need for faith (Matt.
21:22; Jas. 1:6), patience (Luke 18:1-8), godly living (Ps. 66:18; 1 Pet. 3:12), and recognition that God
knows what is best (cf. Luke 22:42; Rom. 8:28; 1 Pet. 4:19). Based on John’s context, the observable sin
that leads to death is that one which portrays the following tenets. 1) Continued rejection of Jesus Christ
as coming in the flesh, 2) continued rejection of the significance of the atoning sacrifice for sins, 3) and
continued disobedience to God’s commands by means of not loving one another. The observable sin
that does not lead to death is that one a believer commits, to which when they confess their sins, God is
faithful and just to forgive them their sins and purify them from all unrighteousness. Those who are born
of God are being kept safe by God the Father Himself. Lastly, apostle John encouraged them to keep
themselves from idols.

14.4 Let’s Practice this Lesson…

1-4. List and briefly describe four confirmations that show that someone is in the fellowship
with God.

5. What indicator shows that the particular person is speaking by the Spirit of God?

6. What should precede our denial of anyone on whether or not he/she has spoken by God’s Spirit or
not?

7. What prove is there to be seen on whether or not someone knows God the Son?

8-12. List five ways that show that a Christian is responding to being in the fellowship with the triune
God.

13-15. Describe three tenets that show that someone is having sin that is leading to death eternally.

14.5 Let’s Personalize this Lesson…

Activity: Do you believe that you are in the fellowship with the triune God? Write down some
reasons why for why not…

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