Introduction: The Litmus Test
A litmus test is a test in which a single factor is decisive
in proving the presence or absence of something. “I
have eternal life,” many say, but passing the litmus
test determines whether someone has truly believed as the
Scriptures say. That’s why 1 John was written; its
sole purpose was that those who read it could know whether
they had actually received saving faith, for the Savior
and the apostles knew that people could believe in vain.
The litmus test of the book of 1 John reveals the presence
or absence of the love of God. Paul wrote in Romans 5:5
that “the love of God has been poured out in our
hearts by the Holy Spirit.” The book of 1 John lets
anyone know (who wants to know) whether this has actually
happened in their life, or whether they have only the concept
of love without the power to love. For the apostle Paul
said that in the last days that there would be many who
would have a form of godliness, yet deny the power.
That’s why this little paper may be one of the most
important we will ever read. For it brings out and explains
the Scriptures that help us to know how we can test ourselves
in the light of the Word of God, so we can know for certain
whether we have truly passed out of death and into life.
We all want to know in our hearts and be assured that we
are participating in the same life that the Apostle John
and the other early believers shared?
We didn’t give up hope when we took the test ourselves.
But now we have the assurance of 1 John 3:14,16,23 and
24 because the Spirit bears witness that we are truly loving
one another as He commanded us.
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one
another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one
another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples,
if you have love for one another.” John 13:34,35
Oh, that we could all be in verse 35…
John 7:38
1 Corinthians 15:2
2 Timothy 3:5
2 Corinthians
13:5
Acts 2:44,45; 5:20; 1 John 5:12 (NASB)
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