1 JOHN 1:1 – 2:6

On the night He was betrayed, Jesus taught the parable of the True Vine and the Branches “so that My joy may be in you and your joy may be complete”. Now John says he is writing this letter to Christians for the very same reason. It doesn’t initially sound too exciting to claim that there is joy in reading…and, that joy actually belongs to John. Hmmm.

What John is saying cannot be separated from Jesus’ teaching on the True Vine, since Jesus said we must abide in His word and His love. The “joy” both Jesus and John proclaim flows from an obedient sinner turning to a graceful God. The result is perfect joy.

So, what could John write that would give rise to this joy?

Jesus, the Word of life is the eternal life

John heard the Word of God. John saw the Word of God. John touched the Word of God. John understood that the Word became flesh and manifested on earth in the midst of mankind. In Jesus there is fellowship with the Divine Nature, and in this fellowship is pure joy.

Jesus, the Word of God is the light of life

Our choices to do wrong lead us into dark places. Sin leads us away from the true light and into darkness. Whether lost at night or simply in a dark place, there is joy when light can be seen and we can rejoice. Finding Jesus, the light of life, is joy beyond compare. Don’t be content living in a dim glow in low light conditions. Walk in the light. Experience the fellowship for all it is worth. Cast down the sin that weighs us down, speak honestly with God about your struggles and find perfect joy in the forgiveness of God.

Jesus, the Word of Truth is the way of life

He is the sacrifice that atones for my sins and your sins, and He mediates and advocates for us with the Father. God wants to know us and He wants us to know Him. The only way this is possible on this side of eternity is by revealing Himself to us. Enter Jesus. He lived a life of compassion and truth sinlessly. Having revealed Himself, He says live like this – walk as Jesus walked – and come to know Me. Do this, and I’ll take care of the sin.

Love is made complete.

 Joy is made complete.

 Divine fellowship is made complete.

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