Verse
Context
Rejoicing in Trials
11For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its flower falls and its beauty is lost. So too, the rich man will fade away in the midst of his pursuits.12Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation - This is a mere Jewish sentiment, and on it the Jews speak some excellent things. In Shemoth Rabba, sec. 31, fol. 129, and in Rab. Tanchum, fol. 29, 4, we have these words: "Blessed is the man שהיה עומד בנסיונו shehayah omed benisyono who stands in his temptation; for there is no man whom God does not try. He tries the rich, to see if they will open their hands to the poor. He tries the poor, to see if they will receive affliction and not murmur. If, therefore, the rich stand in his temptation, and give alms to the poor, he shall enjoy his riches in this world, and his horn shall be exalted in the world to come, and the holy blessed God shall deliver him from the punishment of hell. If the poor stand in his temptation, and do not repine, (kick back), he shall have double in the world to come." This is exactly the sentiment of James. Every man is in this life in a state of temptation or trial, and in this state he is a candidate for another and a better world; he that stands in his trial shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. It is only love to God that can enable a man to endure the trials of life. Love feels no loads; all practicable things are possible to him who loveth. There may be an allusion here to the contests in the Grecian games. He is crowned who conquers; and none else.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Blessed--Compare the beatitudes in the Sermon on the Mount (Mat 5:4, Mat 5:10-11). endureth temptation--not the "falling into divers temptations" (Jam 1:2) is the matter for "joy," but the enduring of temptation "unto the end." Compare Job 5:17. when he is tried--literally, "when he has become tested" or "approved," when he has passed through the "trying" (Jam 1:3), his "faith" having finally gained the victory. the crown--not in allusion to the crown or garland given to winners in the games; for this, though a natural allusion for Paul in writing to the heathen, among whom such games existed, would be less appropriate for James in addressing the Jewish Christians, who regarded Gentile usages with aversion. of life--"life" constitutes the crown, literally, the life, the only true life, the highest and eternal life. The crown implies a kingdom (Psa 21:3). the Lord--not found in the best manuscripts and versions. The believer's heart fills up the omission, without the name needing to be mentioned. The "faithful One who promised" (Heb 10:23). to them that love him--In Ti2 4:8, "the crown of righteousness to them that love His appearing." Love produces patient endurance: none attest their love more than they who suffer for Him.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation,.... Or affliction, which is designed by temptation, as in Jam 1:2 and the man that endures it is he that so bears it, and bears up under it, as not to be offended at it, and stumble in the ways of Christ, and fall away from the truth, and a profession of it, as temporary believers in a time of temptation do; but manfully and bravely stands up under it, and does not sink under the weight of it, or faint on account of it; and endures afflictions in such manner as not to murmur and repine at them, but is quiet and still, and bears them patiently and constantly, and so endures to the end. Such expect afflictions, and when they come, they are not moved by them, but, notwithstanding them, continue in the ways and work of the Lord; and such are happy persons; they are happy now, and shall be hereafter. Saints are happy under afflictions, and even on account of them, for they are tokens of God's love to them, and evidences of their sonship; and especially they are happy under them, when they enjoy the presence of God in them, when they are instructive to them, and are saner, lifted, when they learn from them the useful lessons of faith, patience, humility, and resignation to the will of God, and are made more partakers of his holiness; and they will be happy hereafter, as follows. The Jews have a saying (h) much like this, ""blessed" is the man, , "who stands in his temptation", for there is no creature whom the holy blessed God does not tempt.'' For when he is tried; by the fire of afflictions, as gold is tried in the fire; when God hereby has tried what is in his heart, and the truth of grace in him, as faith, love, patience, &c. and has purged away his dross and tin, and has refined and purified him, as gold and silver are refined and purified in the furnace, or refining pot: and when being thus tried and proved, and found genuine, and comes forth as gold, after this state of temptation and affliction is over, he shall receive the crown of life, eternal happiness, called a "crown", because of the glory of it, which will be both upon the bodies and souls of believers to all eternity; and as suitable to their character, they being kings, and having a kingdom and thrones prepared for them; and in allusion to the crown that was given to the conquerors in the Olympic games: and it is called a "crown of life", because it is for life, which an earthly crown is not always; and because it lies in eternal life, and is an everlasting crown; it is a crown of glory that fadeth not away, an incorruptible one; and differs from the corruptible crown given to the victors in the above mentioned games, which were made of fading herbs, and leaves of trees: and now the man that bears up under afflictions, and holds out unto the end, shall have this crown put upon him, and he shall "receive it"; not as merited by him, by his works or sufferings, for neither of them are worthy to be compared or mentioned with this crown of life and glory; but as the free gift of God, as it will be given him by the righteous Judge, as a reward of grace, and not of debt: which the Lord hath promised to them that love him; either the Lord Jesus Christ, as in Mat 5:10 or else God the Father; the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Ethiopic versions, read, "God"; and the Alexandrian copy leaves out the word "Lord", which may be supplied by the word God; see Jam 2:5 and this promise he made before the world was, who cannot lie, nor deceive, and who is able to perform, and is faithful, and will never suffer his faithfulness to fail; so that this happiness is certain, and may be depended upon: besides, the promise of this crown of life is in Christ, where all the promises are yea and amen; yea, the crown itself is in his hands, where it lies safe and secure for "them that love him"; either the Lord Jesus Christ, his person, his people, his truths, and ordinances, and his glorious appearing, Ti2 4:8 or God the Father; not that their love is the cause of this crown of life, or eternal life, for then it would not be the free gift of God, as it is said to be; nor of the promise of it, for that was made before the world was, and when they had no love unto him; but this phrase is descriptive of the persons to whom God manifests his love now, admits to near communion and fellowship with himself, makes all things, even their afflictions, to work for their good, and whom he will cause to inherit substance, and will fill their treasures. (h) Shemot. Rabba, sect. 34. fol. 133. 3.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:12-27 James addresses the same three topics as in 1:2-11, adding a new dimension to each topic. External testing (1:2-4) becomes internal temptation (1:11-18); the need for wisdom (1:5-8) is related to controlling angry speech (1:19-21); and poverty/wealth relate to the need to act upon God’s word (1:22-25). The section then summarizes these themes (1:26-27). 1:12 Those who love him are faithful and obedient (cp. 1:22-25; 2:5; Deut 7:9; 1 Jn 5:2).
Rejoicing in Trials
11For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its flower falls and its beauty is lost. So too, the rich man will fade away in the midst of his pursuits.12Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Jesus Christ Is Our Great High Priest
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(So Great a Salvation) Overcoming the World
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Judgement Seat - Part 2
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(Men Who Met God): Elijah - "The Lord Leviticus Before Whom I Stand"
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Christ a Stranger (1984 Conference)
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The Judgement Seat of Christ - Part 2 (Alternate)
By Leonard Ravenhill5.3K34:57Eternal RewardsDevotion to GodJudgment Seat Of ChristMAL 3:16MAT 6:19ROM 14:101CO 3:122CO 5:10PHP 3:142TI 4:7JAS 1:121PE 1:7REV 22:12Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the significance of the Judgment Seat of Christ, where every believer's life and service will be evaluated. He contrasts the eternal rewards for faithful service with the loss of those whose lives are built on superficiality, represented by wood, hay, and stubble. Ravenhill passionately calls for a life of devotion and intercession, urging believers to live with eternity in mind and to prepare for the moment when their works will be tested by fire. He highlights the importance of genuine worship and the need for a deep, personal relationship with God, warning against complacency in the Christian life. Ultimately, he challenges the church to rise above worldly distractions and to focus on the eternal impact of their lives.
(Genesis) Genesis 39:21-23
By J. Vernon McGee4.5K03:50GenesisGEN 39:21MAT 6:33ROM 8:28HEB 12:11JAS 1:12In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Joseph from the Bible. He highlights how despite the challenging circumstances Joseph faced, the Lord was with him and showed him mercy. Joseph found favor with the Keeper of the Present and was given authority over the prisoners. The preacher emphasizes that Joseph's ability and attractiveness alone would not have brought him success, but it was God's presence and guidance in his life that led to his prosperity. The sermon also mentions that Satan tries to discourage and disappoint believers, but Joseph's example shows how he lived on top of his circumstances and recognized the hand of God in his life.
Clothed With Power From on High
By Les Wheeldon3.5K54:16Baptism Of Holy SpiritJOS 3:17LUK 24:45ACT 20:281CO 10:13HEB 10:32JAS 1:121PE 4:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses the disciples' experience after Jesus' resurrection. He emphasizes that the disciples were still struggling to understand and were not yet filled with the Holy Spirit. The speaker highlights the disciples' doubts and discouragements, including their desire for Jesus to restore the kingdom of Israel and their fear of persecution. However, the speaker encourages the audience to persevere and walk with Jesus through tough times. The sermon concludes with a reference to Luke 24:49, where Jesus promises to send the power of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples.
Corrie Ten Boom, on Tribulation and Persecution
By Corrie Ten Boom3.3K10:55JHN 16:33ACT 1:8JAS 1:121PE 4:14REV 21:7This sermon by Corrie ten Boom emphasizes the role of Christians as overcomers and ambassadors for Christ in a world filled with tribulation and persecution. It highlights the importance of being prepared for the coming tribulation by feeding on the Word of God, developing a personal relationship with Jesus, and being filled with the Holy Spirit. Despite the fear and challenges, the message encourages believers to find strength in God's promises and the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit.
Marks of True and False Religion
By Aaron Hurst1.9K1:15:37False ReligionJAS 1:2JAS 1:12JAS 1:17JAS 1:19JAS 1:22JAS 1:27In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the book of James, specifically the first chapter. He begins by discussing the three different mentions of James in the Scriptures. The speaker then highlights the importance of true religion, which is founded upon the promises of God and obedience towards Him. He contrasts this with false religion, which is vain and lacks a solid foundation. The speaker expresses gratitude for how the Lord has led in the service and feels that it aligns with the message he wants to share from the book of James.
Cmml Missionary Conference 1995-07 Daniel 3
By William MacDonald1.2K42:56ConferencePRO 22:1MAT 6:33ROM 12:2JAS 1:121PE 3:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses the presence and power of Jesus in the trials of life. He emphasizes that we come to know Jesus more intimately through difficult circumstances rather than in times of ease. The speaker uses the example of Daniel and his friends in the fiery furnace to illustrate the importance of standing for God in a hostile society. He highlights the supernatural wisdom and knowledge that God bestowed upon Daniel as a result of his faithfulness. The sermon concludes with the reminder that God's grace is available to believers in times of trial, providing them with the strength to endure.
Godly People Will Be Persecuted
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Npg Radio 1980 #4 - Radio Interview
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Christians in the Great Tribulation - Part 2
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New Year Message 3 of 4 : The Proof That We Love God
By Zac Poonen94658:192SA 24:24JAS 1:121JN 2:151JN 4:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of proving our love for God through practical actions in our daily lives. It challenges listeners to be faithful in times of temptation, to avoid being enslaved by worldly values, to be generous and rich towards God, and to demonstrate love towards difficult individuals, including those within the church. The ultimate test of love for God is seen in how we treat others, especially those whom we may find challenging or disagreeable.
Crowns - Part 2
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Will You Finish Well
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Comfort for the Sick and Suffering
By Basilea Schlink68404:35Radio ShowMAT 5:5ROM 8:182CO 4:17HEB 12:11JAS 1:12In this sermon transcript, Basilia Schlink discusses the comfort that God offers to those who are sick and suffering. She acknowledges the anguish and hopelessness that can come with prolonged suffering, but reminds listeners that God promises to meet their deepest needs and offers a special comfort. Schlink shares a personal experience of receiving a card with the word "later" written on it, which comes from Hebrews 12:11. This verse reminds her that although suffering may be painful in the moment, it ultimately yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness. She encourages listeners to look forward to the transformation that comes through suffering, as it allows God to form His image of love, mercy, gentleness, and humility in their hearts and spirits.
Missionary Norris Groves Biographical Sketch
By James Malachi Jennings59655:06PSA 91:10MAT 28:192CO 4:8PHP 4:13JAS 1:12This sermon is a biographical sketch of Anthony Norris Groves, a missionary who faced immense trials and suffering in Baghdad, including the plague, floods, and personal losses. Despite the hardships, Groves displayed unwavering faith and trust in God, leading to conversions and impactful work. His story highlights the challenges and sacrifices of missions, the need for emotional strength, and the importance of persevering in the face of adversity.
Persecution, Purity and Power
By Shane Idleman52949:49ROM 2:29ROM 8:372CO 11:13JAS 1:12REV 2:8REV 2:10This sermon delves into the themes of persecution, purity, and power as seen through the lens of the message to the church in Smyrna in Revelation 2. It emphasizes the importance of being open and teachable to hear what the Spirit is saying to the churches, highlighting the need for Christians to be ready to face trials and tribulations. The sermon also touches on the significance of poverty not equating to spiritual poverty, the impact of false believers in the church, and the necessity of overcoming in Christ to avoid the second death and judgment.
Studies in James - Part 2
By W.F. Anderson40400:00GEN 3:3ACT 26:1PHP 2:3JAS 1:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of choosing which set of facts to focus on in our minds. He uses the example of the apostle Paul, who chose to focus on the positive facts and have joy, even in difficult circumstances. The speaker also highlights the deliberate act of counting it all joy when facing trials and challenges. He discusses the testing of our faith and the opportunity it provides to demonstrate our commitment to Jesus Christ. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the need to have a genuine, wholehearted faith that is evident in our daily lives.
Heavenly Crowns: Victory, Honor, and Authority
By Mike Bickle281:14:58Faithfulness in ServiceEternal RewardsEXO 28:21CO 9:241CO 15:41PHP 3:142TI 4:12TI 4:7JAS 1:121PE 5:4REV 2:10REV 3:11Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of eternal rewards in his sermon 'Heavenly Crowns: Victory, Honor, and Authority.' He explains that eternal rewards, including crowns, are expressions of God's grace and reflect how we have loved Him during our lives. Bickle highlights that these rewards are not earned but are gifts from God, and they vary in glory and significance, much like the crowns given in ancient athletic competitions. He warns that while crowns are a blessing, they can also be lost if one does not remain dedicated to their faith. Ultimately, Bickle encourages believers to pursue a life of faithfulness and service, aiming for the eternal rewards that await them.
Running to Win the Crown of Life (Jas 1:12; 1 Cor. 9:24-27)
By Mike Bickle2849:43Crown of LifeEnduranceMAT 5:48JHN 12:48ROM 12:11CO 9:242CO 5:10PHP 3:142TI 4:7HEB 12:1JAS 1:12REV 3:11Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of enduring temptation in the Christian life, explaining that the crown of life is awarded to those who remain steadfast in their faith. He clarifies that this crown is not synonymous with salvation but is a reward for living a life of comprehensive obedience to God's commands. Bickle highlights the importance of running the race of faith with purpose and discipline, as believers will be evaluated at the judgment seat of Christ based on their faithfulness. He warns against the perversion of grace that leads to complacency and encourages believers to strive for complete obedience in all areas of life. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to endure and resist temptation to receive the promised crown of life.
The Blueprint Prophecy and the Black Horse
By Mike Bickle2755:04ProphecySpiritual WarfareISA 40:31MAT 5:14ROM 12:11CO 12:4EPH 6:12PHP 3:142TI 4:7HEB 10:23JAS 1:12REV 3:21Mike Bickle discusses the 'Blueprint Prophecy' received from Bob Jones, emphasizing the vision of a young adult movement that transcends traditional church structures. He recounts the significance of a prophecy that foretold the establishment of a 24-hour house of prayer and the rise of a community connected by shared values and vision. Bickle reflects on the challenges and spiritual warfare represented by the black horse, symbolizing demonic opposition, and the assurance of divine intervention through Michael the archangel. The sermon highlights the importance of perseverance in faith amidst trials and the call to engage in justice and prayer as part of the movement's mission.
Overcoming Temptation: Understanding Its Deceptive Process
By Mike Bickle271:05:29Spiritual WarfareTemptationJAS 1:12Mike Bickle emphasizes the necessity of understanding and overcoming temptation, highlighting the internal and external battles Christians face. He explains that while God provides grace, believers must actively participate in their spiritual growth by making quality decisions and seeking divine help. Bickle stresses the importance of prayer, particularly in asking God to lead us away from temptation and deliver us from evil, as well as the need to confront the lusts that war within us. He outlines the deceptive process of temptation, illustrating how it escalates from desire to sin, and ultimately to death if left unchecked. The sermon calls for a proactive approach to spiritual warfare, urging believers to engage in prayer and resist temptation to experience true freedom in Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation - This is a mere Jewish sentiment, and on it the Jews speak some excellent things. In Shemoth Rabba, sec. 31, fol. 129, and in Rab. Tanchum, fol. 29, 4, we have these words: "Blessed is the man שהיה עומד בנסיונו shehayah omed benisyono who stands in his temptation; for there is no man whom God does not try. He tries the rich, to see if they will open their hands to the poor. He tries the poor, to see if they will receive affliction and not murmur. If, therefore, the rich stand in his temptation, and give alms to the poor, he shall enjoy his riches in this world, and his horn shall be exalted in the world to come, and the holy blessed God shall deliver him from the punishment of hell. If the poor stand in his temptation, and do not repine, (kick back), he shall have double in the world to come." This is exactly the sentiment of James. Every man is in this life in a state of temptation or trial, and in this state he is a candidate for another and a better world; he that stands in his trial shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. It is only love to God that can enable a man to endure the trials of life. Love feels no loads; all practicable things are possible to him who loveth. There may be an allusion here to the contests in the Grecian games. He is crowned who conquers; and none else.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Blessed--Compare the beatitudes in the Sermon on the Mount (Mat 5:4, Mat 5:10-11). endureth temptation--not the "falling into divers temptations" (Jam 1:2) is the matter for "joy," but the enduring of temptation "unto the end." Compare Job 5:17. when he is tried--literally, "when he has become tested" or "approved," when he has passed through the "trying" (Jam 1:3), his "faith" having finally gained the victory. the crown--not in allusion to the crown or garland given to winners in the games; for this, though a natural allusion for Paul in writing to the heathen, among whom such games existed, would be less appropriate for James in addressing the Jewish Christians, who regarded Gentile usages with aversion. of life--"life" constitutes the crown, literally, the life, the only true life, the highest and eternal life. The crown implies a kingdom (Psa 21:3). the Lord--not found in the best manuscripts and versions. The believer's heart fills up the omission, without the name needing to be mentioned. The "faithful One who promised" (Heb 10:23). to them that love him--In Ti2 4:8, "the crown of righteousness to them that love His appearing." Love produces patient endurance: none attest their love more than they who suffer for Him.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation,.... Or affliction, which is designed by temptation, as in Jam 1:2 and the man that endures it is he that so bears it, and bears up under it, as not to be offended at it, and stumble in the ways of Christ, and fall away from the truth, and a profession of it, as temporary believers in a time of temptation do; but manfully and bravely stands up under it, and does not sink under the weight of it, or faint on account of it; and endures afflictions in such manner as not to murmur and repine at them, but is quiet and still, and bears them patiently and constantly, and so endures to the end. Such expect afflictions, and when they come, they are not moved by them, but, notwithstanding them, continue in the ways and work of the Lord; and such are happy persons; they are happy now, and shall be hereafter. Saints are happy under afflictions, and even on account of them, for they are tokens of God's love to them, and evidences of their sonship; and especially they are happy under them, when they enjoy the presence of God in them, when they are instructive to them, and are saner, lifted, when they learn from them the useful lessons of faith, patience, humility, and resignation to the will of God, and are made more partakers of his holiness; and they will be happy hereafter, as follows. The Jews have a saying (h) much like this, ""blessed" is the man, , "who stands in his temptation", for there is no creature whom the holy blessed God does not tempt.'' For when he is tried; by the fire of afflictions, as gold is tried in the fire; when God hereby has tried what is in his heart, and the truth of grace in him, as faith, love, patience, &c. and has purged away his dross and tin, and has refined and purified him, as gold and silver are refined and purified in the furnace, or refining pot: and when being thus tried and proved, and found genuine, and comes forth as gold, after this state of temptation and affliction is over, he shall receive the crown of life, eternal happiness, called a "crown", because of the glory of it, which will be both upon the bodies and souls of believers to all eternity; and as suitable to their character, they being kings, and having a kingdom and thrones prepared for them; and in allusion to the crown that was given to the conquerors in the Olympic games: and it is called a "crown of life", because it is for life, which an earthly crown is not always; and because it lies in eternal life, and is an everlasting crown; it is a crown of glory that fadeth not away, an incorruptible one; and differs from the corruptible crown given to the victors in the above mentioned games, which were made of fading herbs, and leaves of trees: and now the man that bears up under afflictions, and holds out unto the end, shall have this crown put upon him, and he shall "receive it"; not as merited by him, by his works or sufferings, for neither of them are worthy to be compared or mentioned with this crown of life and glory; but as the free gift of God, as it will be given him by the righteous Judge, as a reward of grace, and not of debt: which the Lord hath promised to them that love him; either the Lord Jesus Christ, as in Mat 5:10 or else God the Father; the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Ethiopic versions, read, "God"; and the Alexandrian copy leaves out the word "Lord", which may be supplied by the word God; see Jam 2:5 and this promise he made before the world was, who cannot lie, nor deceive, and who is able to perform, and is faithful, and will never suffer his faithfulness to fail; so that this happiness is certain, and may be depended upon: besides, the promise of this crown of life is in Christ, where all the promises are yea and amen; yea, the crown itself is in his hands, where it lies safe and secure for "them that love him"; either the Lord Jesus Christ, his person, his people, his truths, and ordinances, and his glorious appearing, Ti2 4:8 or God the Father; not that their love is the cause of this crown of life, or eternal life, for then it would not be the free gift of God, as it is said to be; nor of the promise of it, for that was made before the world was, and when they had no love unto him; but this phrase is descriptive of the persons to whom God manifests his love now, admits to near communion and fellowship with himself, makes all things, even their afflictions, to work for their good, and whom he will cause to inherit substance, and will fill their treasures. (h) Shemot. Rabba, sect. 34. fol. 133. 3.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:12-27 James addresses the same three topics as in 1:2-11, adding a new dimension to each topic. External testing (1:2-4) becomes internal temptation (1:11-18); the need for wisdom (1:5-8) is related to controlling angry speech (1:19-21); and poverty/wealth relate to the need to act upon God’s word (1:22-25). The section then summarizes these themes (1:26-27). 1:12 Those who love him are faithful and obedient (cp. 1:22-25; 2:5; Deut 7:9; 1 Jn 5:2).