II. (4) The third idea that arises from the great fact that God is Light has already been suggested (1 John 1:7), but now takes its distinct place in the series. It is the doctrine of Reconciliation and Redemption. St. John does not wish them to contemplate with complacency the probability of sinni... [ Continue Reading ]
The fourth inference from the doctrine that God is Light analyses more accurately the general expression of 1 John 1:7, _walking in the light._ If Christ is, as in 1 John 2:1, the Paraclete and Propitiation of the world, it becomes necessary to ascertain whether He is this to us; lest, when this sal... [ Continue Reading ]
Here (1 John 2:9) is the chief way in which the old commandment, the new commandment, the word from the beginning, the walk in light would be manifested: brotherly love towards those with whom we have fellowship in Jesus Christ, God’s Son. And as He, by being the propitiation for the sins of the who... [ Continue Reading ]
THE THINGS THEY MUST NOT LOVE IF THEY WALKED IN THE LIGHT (1 John 2:12). — The solemnity of the thoughts of 1 John 2:9; 1 John 2:11 is too much for the warm heart of the Apostle. He cannot bear even to seem to suggest that his “dear little children” are shrouded in the gloomy horrors of moral darkne... [ Continue Reading ]
(8) THE MANIFESTATIONS OF DARKNESS (1 John 2:18). (_a_) _Signs whereby they should know the forerunners of the last time_ (1 John 2:18). (_b_) _Exhortation to continue in the light_ (1 John 2:24). After cheering his readers by stating the grounds of his writing, and the opinion which he has of t... [ Continue Reading ]
(5) THE GLORIOUS RESULTS OF GOD’S LOVE REALISED THROUGH THE SONSHIP (1 John 2:19). (_a_) _The comfort of assurance_ (1 John 2:19). (_b_) _The grant of our requests_ (1 John 2:22). (_c_) _The presence of God_ (1 John 2:23). (_d_) _The gift of the Spirit_ (1 John 2:24). The style of St. John i... [ Continue Reading ]
[3. Second Half. God is Love (1 John 2:29 to 1 John 5:12.) (1) RIGHTEOUSNESS THE CRITERION OF DIVINE BIRTH (1 John 2:29). (2) THE DIVINE BIRTH THE OUTCOME OF GOD’S LOVE (1 John 3:1). (3) ITS CONSEQUENCE ON HUMAN CONDUCT (1 John 2:4). (4) BROTHERLY LOVE THE NECESSARY FLOWER OF THE DIVINE BIR... [ Continue Reading ]