1 John 5:19
This sermon explores the identity of believers as children of God and the contrast between the righteous and the wicked in the world.
John Gill emphasizes the distinction between those who are born of God and the rest of the world, which lies in wickedness. He explains that true believers are recognized as children of God through the witness of the Holy Spirit and the evidence of their love for one another. In contrast, the majority of humanity remains unregenerate, ensnared by sin and under the influence of Satan, unable to grasp the promises of righteousness. This stark contrast serves as a reminder of the spiritual battle between good and evil that defines the human experience.
Text
Ver. 19. [And] we know that we are of God,.... The sons of God, and regenerated by him; this is known by the Spirit of God, which witnesses to the spirits of the saints that they are the children of God; and by the fruits and effects of regenerating grace, as love to the brethren, and the like:
and the whole world lies in wickedness; that is, the men of the world, the greater part of the inhabitants of it, who are as they were when they came into it, not being born of God; these are addicted to sin and, wickedness; the bias of their minds is to it, they are set upon it, and give themselves up to it, are immersed in it, and are under the power of it: or "in the wicked one"; Satan, the god of this world; they are under his influence, and led according to his will, and they are governed by him, and are at his beck and command; and this is known, by sad experience, it is easy of observation;
"And cannot comprehend the things that are promised to the righteous in time to come: for this world is full of unrighteousness and infirmities.'' (2 Esdras 4:27)
Sermon Outline
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I
- Understanding our identity as children of God
- The role of the Holy Spirit in affirming our sonship
- The evidence of regeneration through love and good works
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II
- The state of the world in wickedness
- The nature of sin and its influence on humanity
- The distinction between the children of God and the world
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III
- The power of Satan over those not born of God
- The consequences of living under the influence of wickedness
- The hope for the righteous and the promises of God
Key Quotes
“we know that we are of God,.... The sons of God, and regenerated by him” — John Gill
“the whole world lies in wickedness; that is, the men of the world, the greater part of the inhabitants of it” — John Gill
“they are under the power of it: or 'in the wicked one'; Satan, the god of this world” — John Gill
Application Points
- Reflect on how the Holy Spirit affirms your identity as a child of God.
- Recognize the influence of sin and seek to live in accordance with God's grace.
- Hold onto the promises of God as a source of hope amidst the world's wickedness.