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FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST
LORD’S DAY, NOVEMBER 10
1 John 5:1-2
Matthew 16:13-16
 
“Thou art the Christ,
the Son of the living God.”
 
FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST
 
The statement of the doctrine about Jesus Christ comes up repeatedly in this epistle. John also said the same in his Gospel. Jesus was represented in the Old Testament in many pictures. However, one common thing made them effective: faith. The Apostle here said that whosoever believed that Jesus is the Christ is born of God. Faith in Jesus Christ gives one that privilege. In the Gospel, John came to the conclusion of eternal life as the final reward (John 3:16). He added that the love of the Father is also love for the Son. One who is born of God is a Christian in the true sense.
 
All believers have to hold the same faith. In the camp of Israel during the Exodus, every member of the congregation had to observe the same commandments. They had to offer the same sacrifices, in the same way. Strangers were also required to follow the same commands, especially in matters of worship. These principles also help in the composition of a Christian community. Churches have formulated their constitutions and statements of faith in line with the common faith.
 
The stated doctrine here cannot change. John added more on this saying: “By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments” (1 John 5:2). All through Bible history the children of God were always distinct. Those who rebelled during the Exodus were instantly punished. The leaders made sure that everyone was cooperating. The Apostles also held to the same faith and reproved any deviation. When they were compelled to act or teach against the truth, they chose rather to die than to deny their faith. The denial of Jesus as the Christ was common among the Jews in the time of John. John had to speak again and again in defence of this doctrine. This is the gospel.
 
THOUGHT: Believing in Jesus is keeping God’s commandment.
PRAYER: Lord, may I ever hold to one faith in Christ.
 
PRAYER: Lord, may I ever hold to one faith in Christ.

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