18th June 2024

18th June 2024


Pray (ACts)


Read (1 John 4v13-17)


Message (Scott Woodburn)


Although it is true that only God knows the heart, there are marks by which we can recognise a true child of God. As we discussed last week, a Christian is someone who knows God's love (v16) and responds to it by loving fellow Christians. Such a person abides in God and God in him (v16b).


Furthermore, a Christian is someone who has received the gift of the Holy Spirit from the Lord (v13). It is impossible to be a Christian without the Holy Spirit. When a sinner repents and comes to trust Jesus, they are blessed with God the Holy Spirit dwelling within them. It is the Spirit who calls sinners to Jesus and it is the Spirit who gifts Christians and sanctifies them. By this we can know that we are saved - we have the Holy Spirit.


Equally, the Christian is not ashamed of the Gospel. We know that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of His people (v14). We understand the facts and truth of the Gospel and are more than happy to testify to the same. Indeed, whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, abides in God and God in him (v15).


Brothers and sisters, it is a comfort to know that although our weaknesses are many, the Lord knows who belongs to Him and He has done and is doing a remarkable work in us. He has called us from darkness to light, He has blessed us with the Spirit, He has lead us to believe all truth and proclaim it fearlessly. God is love, He loves us and we love Him. Thanks be to God!


Pray (acTS)


Sing


WSC


Q68 What is required in the sixth commandment? The sixth commandment requireth all lawful endeavours to preserve our own life, and the life of others.
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