1 John 2:6
This sermon emphasizes the importance of abiding in Christ and imitating His love in our daily lives.
John Gill emphasizes that those who claim to abide in Christ must also walk as He walked, reflecting a life of faith and obedience. He explains that being in Christ means being secure and united with Him, enjoying a relationship that provides peace and comfort. The call to imitate Christ is not about replicating His miraculous works but rather embodying His grace and love, particularly in our relationships with others. Gill highlights the importance of walking in love, as Christ did, and suggests that this love should be constant and sacrificial when necessary. Ultimately, believers are encouraged to make Christ's example the standard for their own lives.
Text
Ver. 6. He that saith he abideth in him,.... As all do that are in him; once in Christ, and always in Christ; they are set as a seal on his arm and heart, which can never be removed; they are in his arms, and can never be plucked from thence; and are members of him, and can never be disunited from him: or dwelleth in him, as in Joh 6:56; that is, by faith; who under a sense of sin and danger have fled to Christ, as to a strong tower and place of defence, where they dwell safely, peaceably, pleasantly, and comfortably, enjoying whatever is necessary for them.
The Syriac and Ethiopic versions read, "he that saith I am in him"; loved by him, chosen in him, united to him, a member of his, and have communion with him:
ought himself also to walk even as he walked; as Christ walked, lived, and acted, so ought he; that is, to imitate him and follow him, as he has him for an example; not in his miraculous works in raising the dead, healing the sick, and walking upon the waters, &c. which were wrought as proofs of his deity and of his Messiahship, and not intended for imitation; nor in his mediatorial performances, as in his propitiatory sacrifice and advocacy; but in the exercise of grace, and duties of religion as a man, and in a private way; and may chiefly regard walking in love, as he walked, see Eph 5:2; and is what is in the following verses insisted on, namely, the new commandment of love to the brethren; which should be to all as his was, and, like his, constant and lasting; and, when the case requires, should be shown by laying down life for them.
The "as" is not a note of equality, but of likeness; for it cannot be thought that saints should walk in that degree of perfection, in humility, patience, love, and in the exercise of every other grace, and in the discharge of duty, as Christ did; only that they should copy after him, and make his obedience and life the rule of theirs.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Understanding our identity in Christ - The permanence of our union with Him - The assurance of salvation
- II points: - The call to imitate Christ - Walking in love as a reflection of Christ's love - The importance of living out our faith
- III points: - The distinction between imitation and equality with Christ - The role of grace in our daily walk - The significance of community and love among believers
Key Quotes
“He that saith he abideth in him... ought himself also to walk even as he walked.” — John Gill
“They are set as a seal on his arm and heart, which can never be removed.” — John Gill
“The 'as' is not a note of equality, but of likeness.” — John Gill
Application Points
- Reflect on your relationship with Christ and ensure you are abiding in Him daily.
- Make a conscious effort to show love to others, following Christ's example.
- Engage with your community of believers, supporting one another in your walks of faith.