Faith without religion.
Anointing, Assurance, and Divine Adoption
In a recent teaching, we delved into the profound insights of 1 John 3:1-4, exploring the transformative power of the anointing received from Jesus. John emphasizes that this anointing, a deep internal endowment of the Holy Spirit, resides within believers, guiding them in truth and protecting them from deception. This divine presence negates the need for external instruction on what to believe, as the Spirit itself teaches all things.
John reassures his audience that this anointing is a safeguard against the seductive doctrines that deny the Messiah. He encourages believers to trust in the Spirit’s guidance, which leads to truth and not error. This internal assurance fosters a sense of confidence and boldness, especially in anticipation of Christ’s return.
The teaching also highlights the profound love bestowed upon believers, calling them the sons of God. This divine adoption sets them apart from the world, which does not understand their character or the love they embody. John reminds believers that while they are currently the children of God, their ultimate transformation will occur when they see Christ as He is, becoming like Him in glory.
This hope of transformation inspires believers to purify themselves, aligning their lives with the purity of Christ. The expectation of meeting Jesus and being changed into His likeness serves as a powerful motivator to live righteously and equitably, reflecting the love and truth of God in their daily lives.
