How can we apply the truth of Jesus' testimony in our daily lives? The Witness of the Water and the Blood 1 John 5:6 declares, “This is the One who came by water and blood: Jesus Christ. He did not come by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth.” • “Water” points to His baptism (Matthew 3:16-17) where the Father publicly affirmed Him. • “Blood” points to His cross (1 Peter 2:24), the red, historical proof of His atoning work. • The Holy Spirit unites these events, bearing ongoing witness to their reality (Hebrews 9:14). Living with Historical Certainty • Jesus’ baptism and crucifixion happened in time and space. They anchor faith in fact, not myth (John 1:14). • Daily mindset: when doubts whisper, rehearse these two undeniable markers—He was washed in Jordan, He bled at Calvary. • Practical step: read Gospel accounts aloud; thank God for recording the details. Relying on the Spirit’s Present Testimony • Romans 8:16—“The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” • Ask the Spirit to freshly convince your heart each morning that Jesus truly came, died, and rose. • Notice His confirming peace when Scripture is opened, sermons heard, or hymns sung—then respond with gratitude. Cultivating Daily Assurance Because the testimony is true: • Rest—salvation is accomplished; no performance earns it. • Joy—guilt is silenced by “the blood of Jesus His Son” that “cleanses us from all sin” (1 John 1:7). • Confidence—future events unfold under a Savior who already overcame. Walking in Purifying Obedience • Water reminds us of cleansing and new life; live in line with your baptism (Matthew 28:19). • Blood reminds us sin is costly; refuse compromises that nailed Him to the tree. • When temptation rises, recall Calvary and say, “This was paid for—how can I indulge it?” Sharing a Confident Witness • Tell friends what God has done, not merely what you feel: “He came by water and blood.” • Hold to the simple facts—His public baptism, His public crucifixion, His empty tomb. • Revelation 12:11 promises victory “by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” Standing Firm against Counterfeits • False teachers often downplay Jesus’ incarnation or atonement; John wrote to expose them. • Measure every teaching by these twin pillars: Did Jesus truly enter flesh? Did He truly shed blood? • Guard family and church by keeping these non-negotiables front and center. Experiencing Ongoing Cleansing • Confess quickly; blood still avails (1 John 1:7). • Accept forgiveness immediately, rejecting shame that lingers after sin is forsaken. • Serve others from a clean conscience, “so that we may serve the living God” (Hebrews 9:14). Celebrating the Sacramental Reminders • Baptism—looks back to His water, announces new identity. • Lord’s Supper—tastes of His blood, renews covenant hope. • Approach both with excitement; they dramatize 1 John 5:6 every time the church gathers. Everyday Summary 1. Start the day convinced: Jesus’ baptism shows He’s God’s Son; His cross shows He’s my Savior. 2. Lean on the Spirit’s inner witness for assurance and strength. 3. Live clean, speak boldly, resist error, and celebrate the ordinances—because the water, the blood, and the Spirit all say the same thing: Jesus is true. |
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