What is the meaning of 1 John 2:3? By this we can be sure - The verse opens with God’s invitation to real assurance. Scripture never leaves His children guessing about their standing (2 Corinthians 13:5; Romans 8:16). - “By this” points to a concrete standard, not shifting feelings. Just as Jesus said, “You will recognize them by their fruit” (Matthew 7:16), John identifies observable evidence. - The Spirit uses tangible markers so believers can rest in confidence rather than anxiety (Hebrews 6:11). That we have come to know Him - “Know” here is more than facts; it is relational intimacy, the very life Jesus described: “Now this is eternal life: that they may know You” (John 17:3). - John writes to people who may have professed faith but are tempted by counterfeit claims. True knowledge of God displays itself, echoing, “No one who abides in Him keeps on sinning” (1 John 3:6). - The phrase “have come to know” points to a past moment of conversion with ongoing results—similar to Paul’s confidence: “I know whom I have believed” (2 Timothy 1:12). If we keep His commandments - Obedience is the litmus test. Jesus said plainly, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15); John simply applies that teaching. - “Keep” means watch over, guard, treasure—an attitude that delights in God’s will (Psalm 40:8). - This is not salvation by works; rather, works reveal salvation already received (Ephesians 2:8-10; James 2:17). - The commandments are not burdensome (1 John 5:3); they are evidence that Christ’s life is active within. - Ongoing obedience distinguishes genuine disciples from pretenders who merely say “Lord, Lord” but do not do what He says (Luke 6:46). summary John offers a simple but searching test: real assurance comes through obedient living. When a believer guards and practices God’s commands, he can confidently know he belongs to Him. Knowing God is inseparable from loving submission to His Word—an outward fruit springing from an inward relationship. |
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