How can you ensure God's presence remains in you, as stated in 1 John 4:15? Key verse “If anyone confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God remains in him, and he in God.” (1 John 4:15) Confession: The Gateway to Indwelling • “Confesses” (homologeō) means to agree with and openly declare. • Romans 10:9–10 echoes this: confession + faith = salvation. • Continuous, not one-off: an ongoing loyalty to Jesus’ divine sonship. Living the Confession 1. Heart agreement—believe Jesus is the eternal Son (John 20:31). 2. Verbal witness—identify with Him publicly (Matthew 10:32). 3. Lifestyle alignment—choices that honor His name (Colossians 3:17). Abiding Dynamics • John 15:4–5: “Remain in Me, and I will remain in you.” • John 14:23: love + obedience invite Father and Son to “make Our home” with us. • 1 John 2:24: guard the original gospel so you “remain in the Son and in the Father.” • 1 John 4:16: walking in love keeps you where God is. Daily Practices That Keep His Presence Evident • Immerse in Scripture (Psalm 119:11). • Maintain ongoing, conversational prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Act promptly on what He shows you (James 1:22). • Meet with believers for worship and accountability (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Confess sin quickly; He forgives and cleanses (1 John 1:9). • Express tangible love—serve, forgive, give (John 13:35). Watch-Outs That Hinder Fellowship • Unconfessed sin—grieves the Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). • False teaching—denies Christ’s deity (2 John 9). • Worldly entanglements—“friendship with the world” opposes God (James 4:4). Secure Promises to Rest On • 2 Corinthians 6:16: “I will dwell with them and walk among them.” • Ephesians 3:17: “that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.” • God’s indwelling rests on His word; our part is ongoing confession and faithful alignment. In a Moment of Doubt • Rehearse the gospel facts—Jesus is the Son of God, and you have confessed Him. • Examine alignment—repent of anything contrary to His will. • Reaffirm trust—step back into obedience and love, and enjoy the promised reality that “God remains in him, and he in God.” |
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