DEC 27

2 John
Memorise 2 John 9
“Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God”

One of the distinctives of a Bible Presbyterian is that we hold to a strong biblical separation stand. One Bible teacher has described it as such: ‘Bible separation is the practice of separating from sin and error unto truth and righteousness. We are commanded to separate from sin in order to grow in holiness. We are commanded to separate from those whose teachings are contrary to that of the apostles. We are also commanded to separate from believers who are committed to disobedience.’

In the statement from 2 John 10, the apostle John commands believers not to receive false teachers into their houses because of their false doctrine. They were teaching that Jesus Christ is not come in the flesh and that was a fundamental error. This is what the Apostle Paul described as the doctrine of devils (1 Timothy 4:1). Therefore John instructed his readers not to allow these heretical teachers to come into their house. John is here forbidding an official welcome to the congregation, that we do not encourage them in their apostasy and endorse their false teachings.

It is said that we are defined by what we reject as much as by what we accept. If we do not reject social drinking, we are also saying we are open to it. In the area of biblical separation, we should not only be obedient to God’s commands, but also exercise wisdom. Can one keep an “open mind” about which poisons a person might try? We may say “yes” to all the right things; but we must also say “no” to what is false and evil.

Dear teen, how good are you at rejecting what should be rejected? In this evil world that we live in, it is important that we are discerning and disciplined concerning what should be rejected. Satan is like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. Have you said a firm no to smoking and drinking? Have you rejected pop and rock music, as well as worldly movies? How are you to attain unto holiness if you do not reject these? Let the bounds of biblical separation guide you constantly and continually. It is the way of blessing and fruitfulness (Psalm 1:1-3). There must be moral, doctrinal and practical separation in all areas of your life if you want to please God.

Thought: Separation is faithfulness to God and His truth.
Prayer: Our loving heavenly Father, strengthen me to obey You in matters of biblical separation for it is an expression of my love and obedience to You, trusting that is also the way of protection against the evils and wickedness of this world.