What does claiming to know God without obeying His commands reveal about us? Setting the verse in front of us “Whoever says, ‘I know Him,’ but does not keep His commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” (1 John 2:4) The claim: “I know Him” • Saying we “know” God is more than admitting He exists; it is a declaration of personal relationship, fellowship, and allegiance. • In biblical language, to “know” involves intimate, experiential knowledge—much like a covenant bond (cf. Jeremiah 31:34). The contradiction exposed • John draws a sharp line: profession without obedience = falsehood. • “He is a liar” is not hyperbole; it is a literal assessment of spiritual reality. • The phrase “the truth is not in him” echoes John 14:6—if Christ is the Truth and Christ is absent from that person’s conduct, the life contradicts the lips. What disobedience reveals about us • Lack of genuine conversion—Titus 1:16: “They profess to know God, but by their actions they deny Him.” • Absence of love—John 14:15: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • Self-deception—James 1:22: hearing without doing “deceives yourselves.” • Separation from light—1 John 1:6: walking in darkness while claiming fellowship shows the truth is not being practiced. • Impending judgment—Matthew 7:21-23: many will say, “Lord, Lord,” yet be dismissed because obedience was missing. • Alignment with the devil’s character—John 8:44: Satan “has no truth in him.” Why obedience matters • Proof of regeneration—1 John 2:3: “By this we can be sure that we have come to know Him: if we keep His commandments.” • Assurance of salvation—consistent obedience builds confidence before God, while disobedience breeds doubt (1 John 3:19-21). • Witness to the world—Matthew 5:16: good works cause others to glorify God. • Protection from sin’s bondage—Psalm 119:9-11: storing God’s word guards the life. • Participation in God’s joy—John 15:10-11: obedience keeps us in Christ’s love and fullness of joy. Living out the truth • Examine our words and walk—2 Corinthians 13:5 tells us to test ourselves. • Confess known sin—1 John 1:9 assures cleansing. • Seek daily empowerment—Galatians 5:16: walk by the Spirit to avoid gratifying the flesh. • Immerse in Scripture—Psalm 119:105: God’s word lights the path of obedience. • Practice immediate, wholehearted response—Psalm 119:60: “I hurried and did not delay to keep Your commandments.” Encouragement to walk in obedience • God’s commands are not burdensome (1 John 5:3). • He provides both the desire and the power to obey (Philippians 2:13). • As we keep His word, “the love of God is truly perfected in us” (1 John 2:5). |
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