Walking in the Light: A Reflection on 1 John 1:5-2:2
Apr/23/2023
In 1 John 1:5-2:2, the apostle John emphasizes the importance of walking in the light of God's truth and the reality of sin in our lives. He begins by affirming that God is light, and in him there is no darkness at all (1 John 1:5, ESV). This means that God is perfectly holy, righteous, and pure, and that as his followers, we are called to live in the light of his truth and to walk in a way that is pleasing to him.
However, John also recognizes that we all fall short of God's standard of perfection and that we all struggle with sin. He says, "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us" (1 John 1:8, ESV). This means that we must acknowledge our sinfulness and our need for forgiveness and restoration.
Thankfully, John also provides hope and assurance for those who confess their sins and turn to Jesus Christ. He says, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9, ESV). This promise of forgiveness is based on the advocacy of Jesus Christ, who is the propitiation for our sins (1 John 2:1-2, ESV).
In light of this, John calls his readers to live a holy life in Christ, to turn away from sin and to walk in obedience to God's commands. He says, "Whoever says 'I know him' but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected" (1 John 2:4-5, ESV).
1 John 1:5-2:2 reminds us of the importance of walking in the light of God's truth, confessing our sins, and living a holy life in Christ. As we do so, we can have confidence in the forgiveness and advocacy of Jesus Christ, and we can experience the fullness of God's love and grace in our lives.
