DAY 30—The twofold purpose of I John

 

The passage we take for today has compelling and clear statements for the faith of a believer. But in the latter part of verse 16 are some of the most difficult to understand words in all of Scripture. I must admit they almost elude my understanding. These words have to do with a brother in whom we may see sin as a sin unto death. John seems to tell us there is no need to pray for this one. In searching Scripture, however we find a passage in Hebrews that sheds light on John’s statement. We place it after the passage from I John.

I John 5:13-17—These things have I written unto you that believe on the Name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the Name of the Son of God. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: and if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him. If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it. All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death.

Hebrews 6:4-6—For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the good Word of God, and the powers of the world to come, if they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.

FATHER, I praise You for the confidence that is coming to me from I John. I must admit, however, I need understanding for much of it. Please help me lay hold on what I am ready to receive into my life. For what I cannot yet understand, I leave it with You, with the expectation that in time it will open to me.

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