How does this verse encourage us to live as God's children now? The Verse at the Center “Beloved, we are now children of God, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that when Christ appears, we will be like Him, for we will see Him as He is.” — 1 John 3:2 Living in the Security of Present Sonship • “We are now children of God”—not someday, but right now. • Romans 8:16: “The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” • This settled identity frees us from striving for God’s acceptance; we serve from acceptance. Letting Future Glory Shape Today’s Choices • “What we will be has not yet been revealed.” Our destiny is greater than all present struggles. • Philippians 3:20-21: our citizenship is in heaven, and Christ “will transform our lowly bodies to be like His glorious body.” • Knowing that destiny, we align our priorities with eternity rather than temporary allurements (Colossians 3:4-5). Growing Toward Christlikeness Now • “We will be like Him”—that goal drives daily transformation. • 2 Corinthians 3:18: we are “being transformed into the same image from glory to glory.” • Daily practices that cooperate with this work: – Regular time in the Word (Psalm 1:2). – Confession and repentance when we fall (1 John 1:9). – Fellowship that sharpens and encourages (Hebrews 10:24-25). Motivated to Purify Ourselves • The next verse, 1 John 3:3, connects hope with holiness: “Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” • Holiness flows from confident expectation, not insecurity. • 1 Peter 1:14-16 urges obedient children to “be holy” because the Father is holy. Walking in Love Imitating the Father • Children resemble their Father’s character. • Ephesians 5:1-2: “Be imitators of God, therefore, as beloved children, and walk in love, just as Christ loved us.” • Practical expressions: forgiving offenses, sacrificial service, truthful speech. Serving with Expectant Hope • “When Christ appears” keeps us alert and active, not passive. • Titus 2:13-14: grace teaches us to live self-controlled lives “while we wait for the blessed hope,” zealously doing good works. Summary Snapshot 1. Rest in the reality that you are God’s child today. 2. Let the promise of becoming like Christ steer daily decisions. 3. Pursue purity eagerly, reflecting your Father’s holiness. 4. Walk in practical love that mirrors Christ’s sacrifice. 5. Serve energetically, fueled by certain, coming glory. Our present identity and future likeness to Christ unite to shape a life of confident, holy, loving obedience—right now, as God’s children. |
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