Apparently, we can know quite a bit according to John

He wanted his readers (you and me included) to know that Jesus is reality. Speaking of the witnesses, he said they saw him with their own eyes, they touched him and they declare Jesus to us as the eternal life who was from the beginning (1st John 1:1-2).

John was inspired to use two words that we aptly translate with the English word “know”. He used these two words at least 38 times in the brief letter we call “1st John”. Following are a few things the Holy Spirit wanted us to know that we could know.

· We can know that we have come to know Jesus if we keep his commandments (1st John 2:3). Are Jesus’ teachings our standard of judgment? Do we hold up the light of his word against our behavior so we can see ourselves clearly? Jesus told Nicodemus that those who practice truth come to the light so their deeds could be seen for what they were (John’s gospel 3:21).

· We can know that we have passed from death to life because we love the brethren (1st John 3:14). What a simple, yet profoundly wonderful test to measure ourselves against the 2nd greatest commandment! Am I known to love my brothers & sisters, or am I more of a judge and a critic?

· We can understand the reality of God’s love for us (1st John 4:15-17) and knowing this love casts out all fear of judgment. So, stop condemning yourself. If all God has done for you does not prove his love, then what will?

· (My favorite) We can know that we have eternal life (1st John 5:13). He does not say we will “get” eternal life, but that we “have” eternal life right now. Walking in the light as he is in the light (1st John 1:7) makes us alive!

No wonder the apostle says that our faith is our victory. It is not guesswork. It is not luck or chance. We are standing on the firm foundation of what God has revealed to us through his beloved son.