Remain in Him

 1 John 2:24-27

See that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father.  And this is what he promised us—even eternal life.
I am writing these things to you about those who are trying to lead you astray.  As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit—just as it has taught you, remain in him. 

Earlier studies in the beginning segments of this chapter taught us the primary message here is one of continuing to be steadfast and strong in the faith. We have seen John's teaching on this where he encourages us to love God and keep his commandments, which actually is testimony to the world that we belong to God. Further, loving each other brings testimony that we are walking in the light as opposed to spiritual darkness

Now, in the above verses,  we are encouraged again to remain faithful to the gospel which we have been taught, that divine truth which remains in us.  John wants us to know the gospel message  which we cling to is what connects us to the Son and the Father, and the promise of eternal life. 

That all sounds good and wonderful, but John says he is telling us these things because there are those in the world who are trying to lead us away from the Lord.  That probably isn't news to you. It may come in the form of an acquaintance, someone at work or school, or possibly someone you do not know. Satan is no dummy, and he is active in negating the personal testimony and influence of any who would wear the name of Jesus. 

John says the anointing you received from him remains in you.  The indwelling of God's Spirit brings to us another spiritual benefit here. He is the one who guides us in things that are true. Therefore the concluding verse assures us the reality of the Holy Spirit in teaching us and leading us in the right paths. 

The conclusion is centered around our beginning theme, "Continue in him."  And if you read the verse after the ones quoted above, it again drives home the same message, "And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming."  1 John 2:28

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