Yesterday we talked about our new possessions when we accept what Christ has done for us. However we said that it is easy for a believer to have doubts. In fact our enemy Satan, makes sure that we do have them. That temptation can come to any believer, young or old. How can we overcome those doubts? Can we be absolutely sure that our sins are forgiven and that we are children of God, on our way to Heaven? Wouldn't it be better to say "I just hope my sins are forgiven. I hope I am a child of God"? Or "If I keep working for Christ, I hope I will get to heaven."? There are some groups that teach the truth in that way. But God has lovingly made provision for us in this matter in His Word. While it is taught plainly throughout the New Testament, one epistle seems to have been written to answer these questions. It is the first epistle of John from which our reading came today. Read again verse 13. It was written to those who believe, which means salvation. It was written so that you might know - that is assurance. Knowing is the result of believing. Assurance can be defined as confidence, certainty, a solemn promise or guarantee, a positive declaration that a thing is true. ABible teacher wrote, "It is a believer's immovable conviction that because he/she has received Christ, he/she is in possession now of a salvation which he/she will eternally keep." It is wonderful to be able to say, "I know I am a child of God. I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep me, my soul, and my life which I have committed to Him." Lack of assurance can mean our testimony for Christ will be spoiled. Our service for Christ could come to a half and our spiritual growth stunted. Remember: believing in Christ means salvation, believing God's word means assurance. |
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