1 John 2:4
Verse
Context
Jesus Our Advocate
3By this we can be sure that we have come to know Him: if we keep His commandments.4If anyone says, “I know Him,” but does not keep His commandments, he is a liar, and the truth is not in him.5But if anyone keeps His word, the love of God has been truly perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him:
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
He that saith, I know him - This is a severe blow against those false teachers, and against all pretenders to religious knowledge, who live under the power of their sins; and against all Antinomians, and false boasters in the righteousness of Christ as a covering for their personal unholiness. They are all liars, and no truth of God is in them.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I know--Greek, "I have knowledge of (perfect) Him." Compare with this verse Jo1 1:8.
John Gill Bible Commentary
He that saith I know him,.... God or Christ, as the Gnostics did, who pretended to great, even perfect, knowledge of divine things: and keepeth not his commandments; which the above persons had no regard to, and as many who profess great light and knowledge in our days show no concern for: is a liar; he contradicts what he says, and gives the lie to it; for though in words he professes to know God, in works he denies him, and which betrays his ignorance of him: and the truth is not in him; there is no true knowledge of God and Christ in him; nor is the truth of the Gospel in his heart, however it may be in his head; nor is the truth of grace in him, for each of these lead persons to obedience. The Ethiopic version renders it, "the truth of God is not with him"; See Gill on Jo1 1:8.
1 John 2:4
Jesus Our Advocate
3By this we can be sure that we have come to know Him: if we keep His commandments.4If anyone says, “I know Him,” but does not keep His commandments, he is a liar, and the truth is not in him.5But if anyone keeps His word, the love of God has been truly perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him:
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Biblical Assurance (Part 2)
By Paul Washer4.4K39:27AssurancePSA 51:17ISA 66:2MAT 6:332CO 5:21HEB 3:71JN 1:81JN 2:4In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the topic of being truly born again and how to know if one is a genuine believer. He emphasizes the importance of aligning one's lifestyle with God's will and the written word of God. The preacher warns against professing to be a Christian while living in contradiction to God's teachings, stating that such individuals are liars and even accuse God of being a liar. He highlights the incomparable love of God and encourages believers to have a sensitive heart towards sin and to seek salvation and a transformed life through Jesus Christ.
(Through the Bible) 1 John 1-2:11
By Chuck Smith3.0K1:09:09Through The BibleROM 3:111JN 1:71JN 2:41JN 2:61JN 3:21JN 3:7In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a man who had been living a miserable and mean life for over 16 years. One day, his little daughter came running to him, but he pushed her away and she got seriously burned. Feeling remorseful, the man approached the preacher and asked if God could forgive him for his past actions. The preacher assured him that the blood of Jesus Christ can cleanse a person from all sin, no matter how dark or bleak their past may be. The sermon emphasizes the transformative power of the gospel and the hope it offers to all who confess their sins and seek forgiveness.
Come, Buy, and Eat (Compilation)
By Compilations2.1K19:57CompilationISA 55:2MAL 3:3MAT 9:2MAT 25:35LUK 4:18JHN 12:48ROM 12:2GAL 2:20GAL 5:161JN 2:41JN 2:15REV 3:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for believers to forsake their wicked ways and unrighteous thoughts. He urges them not to conform to the ways of the world but to be transformed by renewing their minds through the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. The preacher also highlights the importance of obedience to God's teachings and the free gift of grace that believers have received. He encourages believers to demonstrate their faith through acts of love and service, both physically and spiritually, by feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and ministering to those in prison. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the power of Jesus Christ to deliver and set free those who are oppressed and captive, offering forgiveness and new life.
Holy Spirit and the Crisis of Pentecost - Part 2
By T. Austin-Sparks2.1K45:54PentecostMAT 6:33ROM 8:15ROM 8:17HEB 6:101JN 2:4REV 1:10REV 2:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the implications and significance of the statement that God's people should grasp the spiritual content rather than focusing on outward appearances. The speaker highlights the idea that the journey of spiritual growth and transformation may be difficult and painful, but it is necessary to eliminate vanity and artificiality. The sermon explores the concept of groaning, which represents the struggle and striving in the spiritual journey. The speaker also discusses God's original purpose for humanity and how the fall and change of human nature contribute to the challenges faced in fulfilling that purpose.
Gods Order in Christ - Part 7
By T. Austin-Sparks1.9K57:32Order In ChristJHN 8:441JN 2:4REV 21:27REV 22:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses the parable of casting something into the waters and the waters being healed. They explain that throughout history, every step forward has only produced new problems. The sermon also mentions the story of Samson and how the safety and duration of a building rest on its pillars. The speaker emphasizes the importance of reality and truth in religion, as pretense and make-believe can lead to disintegration and confusion. The sermon references Proverbs 9:1, which speaks about wisdom building her house with seven pillars.
Lord, My Heart Is Open. Help Me
By Carter Conlon1.9K50:33Christian LifePSA 119:105MAT 6:33JHN 8:32EPH 5:25EPH 6:142TI 3:161JN 2:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of going the distance and following where God leads. He emphasizes the need to embrace and live in the truth of God's word, allowing it to shape and guide our lives. The speaker also highlights the challenges and opposition we may face when pursuing God's calling, using the example of David facing doubts and criticism before facing Goliath. The sermon encourages believers to put on the whole armor of God, including the shield of faith, to stand against the enemy's attacks and fulfill God's purpose for their lives.
Having Assurance of Salvation
By Bob Jennings1.7K09:212CH 25:2PSA 1:2PSA 37:4MAT 7:21MRK 4:201JN 2:41JN 3:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of wholehearted devotion to God, highlighting the need to fully surrender and consecrate ourselves to Him without holding back. It discusses the issue of assurance and how it can be hindered by reservations in our hearts, stressing the significance of faith and walking closely with God. The sermon also shares powerful testimonies of individuals who faced challenges in their faith but found restoration and freedom through genuine repentance and trust in God's Word.
Living by Faith in Future Grace - Lesson 1
By John Piper1.2K1:15:43PSA 34:19JER 10:232TH 2:13JAS 2:17JAS 3:11JN 2:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of serving God by leaning on His provision and strength. He references 1 Peter 4:11 to explain that serving God is not like being a slave, but rather it involves depending on and living by the strength that God supplies. The speaker shares his passion for bringing glory to God and experiencing joy in the Christian life. He also mentions how he has seen people deeply moved and impacted by these teachings, particularly when he speaks outside of his church.
Living Sacrifice (Compilation)
By Compilations1.1K29:25CompilationMAT 10:38MRK 10:21LUK 14:27ROM 12:1HEB 3:151JN 2:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of laying down one's life for Christ based on the mercies of God. He refers to Romans chapter 12, where Paul urges believers to offer their lives as a living sacrifice to God. The motivation for this sacrifice is found in the first 11 chapters of Romans, where Paul explains all that God has done for us in Christ. The preacher highlights the significance of Christ's death, stating that it should move believers to worship and gratitude, as it is through His sacrifice that we are set free from bondage and brought back to God.
God
By Paris Reidhead1.1K45:08GodPSA 19:7EZK 36:26MAT 6:33ROM 1:201JN 2:4In this sermon, the speaker discusses the four steps into sin using the example of David. The first step is making an error or mistake, which can easily lead to a fault if not acknowledged and confessed. The second step is committing secret sins, where wrong actions are done in hidden places. The third step is presumptuous sins, where one knowingly and willfully disobeys God. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing these steps and turning to God for forgiveness and strength to live a righteous life. The sermon also highlights the power and significance of God's word in revealing His perfection, righteousness, and truth.
(Ephesians) Saved Through the Sovereign Work of the Father
By Jeff Noblit1.1K1:19:57ElectionMAT 5:48MAT 22:37ROM 8:29EPH 1:41JN 2:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the responsibility of believers to share the gospel and pray for the salvation of others. He warns against being out of balance by focusing solely on the glories of God's work in redemption without actively spreading the gospel. The preacher explains that God chose believers according to his will and for the praise of his grace. He also highlights the importance of having a love for God's law and truth as evidence of true conversion.
Desperate for More of God - Our Strength
By Shane Idleman94338:35ObedienceHolinessSeeking GodISA 55:11JER 23:21MAT 22:37ROM 12:21CO 10:31GAL 5:16EPH 6:102TI 2:22JAS 1:221JN 2:4Shane Idleman emphasizes the necessity of loving God with all our strength, urging the congregation to move beyond mere words to actionable obedience to God's Word. He addresses the struggles of hopelessness, depression, and family issues, encouraging individuals to seek God's transformative power in their lives. Idleman warns against the dangers of compromise and desensitization to sin, calling for a return to holiness and a genuine relationship with God. He stresses that true obedience stems from love for God, not legalism, and that the church must confront sin to restore spiritual health. Ultimately, he calls for a revival of faith and a commitment to live out God's truth in a world that often rejects it.
What Is a Faithful Servant?
By Shane Idleman54141:46HOS 4:1MAT 7:21MAT 24:42MAT 24:44MAT 25:10MAT 25:12ROM 10:9PHP 2:12JAS 2:171JN 2:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of being prepared and faithful for the return of Jesus, highlighting the distinction between the wise and foolish servants. It delves into the significance of true repentance, genuine faith, and the experiential knowledge of God. The message stresses the need for believers to be ready, obedient, and to have a personal relationship with Jesus as both Savior and Lord.
Profiting From the Word 6. the Scriptures and Obedience
By A.W. Pink0ObedienceTrue Faith1SA 15:22PSA 119:35PSA 119:155LUK 6:46JHN 15:14ROM 7:12COL 2:6JAS 1:221PE 1:151JN 2:4A.W. Pink emphasizes that true obedience to God is essential for honoring Christ, which goes beyond mere church attendance or financial contributions. He argues that many Christians are deceived into thinking they are saved while living unchanged lives, failing to recognize that obedience to God's commandments is a true expression of love for Him. Pink stresses that genuine obedience stems from a heart transformed by grace, leading to a sincere desire to follow God's will in all aspects of life. He warns against the dangers of mere knowledge without application, urging believers to seek a deeper relationship with God through active obedience to His Word.
The Word and Faith
By Glenn Meldrum0NUM 13:30DEU 28:1PSA 12:6MAT 24:35ROM 12:2HEB 4:121JN 2:4Glenn Meldrum emphasizes the importance of faith in the Living Word, Jesus, and belief in the truths of the Scriptures for salvation, holiness, and revival. He discusses how revival is sparked by a deep understanding and obedience to the Word of God, highlighting the need for doctrinal integrity and a restoration of the Scriptures in the Church. Drawing from the example of King Josiah's reform, he illustrates the transformative power of the Word when it is embraced and practiced wholeheartedly. Meldrum challenges believers to have a radical faith, rooted in Biblical truth, that leads to a revival marked by miracles, signs, and wonders.
Mistaking Word for Deed
By A.W. Tozer0True DiscipleshipFaith in ActionMAT 5:16MAT 7:21LUK 6:46JHN 14:15ROM 2:13GAL 5:6TIT 1:16JAS 1:221PE 1:221JN 2:4A.W. Tozer emphasizes the critical distinction between knowing the teachings of Christianity and truly living them out, drawing parallels with the philosopher Epictetus, who valued practical application over mere knowledge. Tozer warns that many professed Christians fall into the trap of mistaking intellectual understanding for genuine faith, highlighting that true wisdom is demonstrated through actions rather than words. He challenges believers to examine their lives and ensure that their faith is reflected in their deeds, rather than simply in their knowledge of scripture.
On Sinning
By Charles Finney0ObedienceMoral ResponsibilityMAT 5:16MAT 7:21LUK 6:46JHN 14:15ROM 2:13GAL 5:6EPH 2:10JAS 4:171PE 1:151JN 2:4Charles Finney emphasizes the grave nature of sin, particularly the sin of neglecting known duties as outlined in James 4:17. He argues that true faith must manifest in love and obedience, and that neglecting any known duty is a deliberate rejection of moral obligation to God. Finney clarifies that both Paul and James teach the necessity of works as a condition of salvation, and that failing to act on known duties is tantamount to sin. He warns that living in neglect of duty leads to spiritual deception and ultimately, separation from God. The sermon calls for a commitment to fulfill all known obligations to God and others as a true expression of faith.
1 John 2:4
By John Gill0ObedienceTrue Knowledge of GodMAT 7:21JHN 14:15JHN 15:10ROM 2:13GAL 5:13JAS 1:221JN 1:61JN 2:41JN 3:242JN 1:6John Gill emphasizes the importance of aligning one's actions with their professed knowledge of God, warning against the hypocrisy of claiming to know Him while disregarding His commandments. He critiques those who, like the Gnostics, boast of spiritual enlightenment yet fail to demonstrate obedience, revealing their true ignorance. Gill asserts that true knowledge of God is evidenced by a life of obedience, and without this, one is a liar and lacks the truth of the Gospel in their heart.
The Inseparability of Faith and Obedience
By A.W. Tozer0ObedienceFaithMAT 7:21JHN 14:21ACT 5:32ROM 1:5JAS 2:141PE 1:21JN 2:41JN 3:241JN 5:2A.W. Tozer emphasizes that faith and obedience are inseparable, akin to two sides of the same coin, and that separating them leads to spiritual weakness and moral decline. He argues that true understanding of spiritual truth requires a full commitment to obedience, as demonstrated in John 7:17, where willingness to do God's will precedes knowledge. Tozer warns against the trend of prioritizing faith over obedience, which undermines genuine Christianity. He cites various scriptures to support his assertion that saving faith cannot exist without a corresponding willingness to obey. Ultimately, he concludes that one cannot be a true Christian without embracing both faith and obedience.
Exodus 8:25
By Chuck Smith0Compromise in FaithFull SurrenderEXO 8:25MAL 3:8MAT 6:24MAT 13:22LUK 9:23ROM 12:12CO 9:71TI 6:10HEB 10:251JN 2:4Chuck Smith emphasizes the dangers of compromising one's faith while living in the world, illustrating how Pharaoh represents Satan's attempts to lead believers into half-hearted commitments. He argues that many Christians try to serve both God and worldly desires, which is impossible according to Christ's teachings. Smith warns against the temptation to keep one foot in the church while indulging in worldly pleasures, especially when it comes to raising children in faith. He stresses the importance of full surrender to God, including financial stewardship, and challenges the notion that tithing is outdated. Ultimately, he calls for a complete commitment to God, free from the distractions and compromises of the world.
The Eternal Question-What Must I Do to Be Saved?
By Glendon Fox0EZK 36:26MAT 7:21MAT 25:46JHN 14:6ACT 16:31ROM 10:13EPH 2:8JAS 2:191JN 2:4Glendon Fox preaches about the universal question of what must be done to be saved, emphasizing the inherent knowledge within humans of a missing piece in their hearts and the restlessness that drives them to seek deeper meaning in life. He delves into the need for salvation from sin, the power of Satan, and the eternal consequences of separation from God. Fox highlights the solution to this dire condition through belief in Jesus Christ, who took the punishment for our sins, offering reconciliation with God and a new life. He also addresses the importance of genuine repentance and a transformed heart, cautioning against false forms of salvation that rely on rituals or outward actions.
The Scriptures and Obedience
By A.W. Pink0ObedienceTrue Faith1SA 15:22PSA 119:97PSA 119:155MAT 22:37LUK 6:46JHN 15:14ROM 7:12COL 2:6JAS 1:221JN 2:4A.W. Pink emphasizes that true obedience to Christ is essential for honoring Him, which goes beyond mere church attendance or financial contributions. He argues that many Christians are deceived into thinking they are saved while their hearts remain unchanged, highlighting the necessity of living in accordance with God's commandments. Pink stresses that obedience is not just about external actions but involves a heartfelt submission to God's will, which is rooted in love for Him. He warns against the dangers of being mere hearers of the Word without incorporating it into daily life, urging believers to seek a genuine relationship with God through obedience. Ultimately, Pink concludes that true spiritual obedience is a reflection of a transformed heart that delights in God's law.
(Reformers and Their Stepchildren) Introduction
By Leonard Verduin0MAT 7:21ROM 3:281CO 1:101CO 3:1GAL 2:16EPH 2:8JAS 2:241PE 2:91JN 2:4Leonard Verduin discusses the emergence of deep-seated differences within the dissenters against the medieval order, leading to the Reformers facing opposition on a 'Second Front' from the Radicals. This Second Front significantly impacted the course of the Reformation, causing the Reformers to shift their focus and theology. The Radicals, also known as the Stepchildren of the Reformation, challenged Luther's emphasis on justification by faith alone and the role of good works in salvation, standing to the right of Luther on crucial theological points. The conflict at the Second Front centered around differing views of the Church of Christ, with the Stepchildren advocating for a Church based solely on personal faith, leading to their departure from the Reformers.
1 John 1:6
By John Gill0Fellowship With GodWalking in the LightJHN 3:21JHN 8:12ROM 13:122CO 6:14EPH 5:8COL 1:131TH 5:51PE 2:91JN 1:61JN 2:4John Gill emphasizes the contradiction of claiming fellowship with God while walking in darkness, which represents sin, ignorance, and unbelief. He explains that those who profess to have communion with God but continue in sinful ways are deceiving themselves and are hypocrites. True fellowship with God results in walking in the light, as God is light, and one cannot genuinely know Him while remaining in darkness. Gill warns that such individuals are liars, as their actions do not align with the truth of the Gospel. The sermon calls for self-examination and a sincere pursuit of the light of Christ.
Practicing the Truth
By A.W. Tozer0Commitment to ChristTruth in ActionMAT 7:21ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 5:22EPH 4:1PHP 2:12COL 3:17JAS 1:221JN 2:4REV 3:1A.W. Tozer emphasizes the disconnect between Christians' emotional appreciation for truth and their reluctance to apply it in practice. He critiques the church for tolerating unscriptural practices and highlights the need for a genuine commitment to Christ that aligns both emotions and actions. Tozer questions whether many believers have truly experienced inward renewal, as they often prefer the comfort of feeling right over the challenge of living right. He warns that merely having a reputation of being alive, as noted in Revelation 3:1, can mask a deeper spiritual deadness.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
He that saith, I know him - This is a severe blow against those false teachers, and against all pretenders to religious knowledge, who live under the power of their sins; and against all Antinomians, and false boasters in the righteousness of Christ as a covering for their personal unholiness. They are all liars, and no truth of God is in them.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I know--Greek, "I have knowledge of (perfect) Him." Compare with this verse Jo1 1:8.
John Gill Bible Commentary
He that saith I know him,.... God or Christ, as the Gnostics did, who pretended to great, even perfect, knowledge of divine things: and keepeth not his commandments; which the above persons had no regard to, and as many who profess great light and knowledge in our days show no concern for: is a liar; he contradicts what he says, and gives the lie to it; for though in words he professes to know God, in works he denies him, and which betrays his ignorance of him: and the truth is not in him; there is no true knowledge of God and Christ in him; nor is the truth of the Gospel in his heart, however it may be in his head; nor is the truth of grace in him, for each of these lead persons to obedience. The Ethiopic version renders it, "the truth of God is not with him"; See Gill on Jo1 1:8.