Why is it important for believers to understand the testimony of "water and blood"? Setting the Scene: 1 John 5:6 in Context • “This is the One who came by water and blood—Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth.” (1 John 5:6) • John is combating teachers who downplayed or denied the real, flesh-and-blood coming of Christ. • By pairing “water and blood,” the apostle underscores that Jesus’ entire earthly ministry—from baptism to crucifixion—was genuine, physical, and necessary for our redemption. What the Water Represents • Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan (Matthew 3:13-17). – Heaven’s voice: “This is My beloved Son” (v. 17). – Public inauguration of His ministry, affirming His sinless humanity and divine approval. • A picture of cleansing and identification with sinners (Matthew 3:15). • A prophetic sign pointing to our own union with Christ (Romans 6:3-4). What the Blood Represents • The literal, atoning death of Jesus on the cross (John 19:30). • “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22). • His blood continues to cleanse: “The blood of Jesus His Son purifies us from all sin” (1 John 1:7). The Spirit’s Ongoing Witness • “The Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three are in agreement” (1 John 5:8). • The Holy Spirit keeps pointing believers back to the historic events—baptism and crucifixion—so our faith rests on God’s objective work, not shifting feelings. • He assures hearts that the same Jesus who was baptized and bled is now risen and present (Romans 8:16). Why Grasping This Matters for Believers • Confirms Jesus’ full identity—truly God and truly man. • Guards against false teachings that detach the “spiritual” Christ from real history. • Grounds assurance of salvation in finished, physical events, not abstract ideas. • Strengthens confidence when sharing the gospel: our message is rooted in verifiable acts of God. • Encourages grateful obedience; the One who stood in the Jordan also hung on the cross for us. Practical Takeaways for Daily Faith • When you remember your baptism, recall that Jesus first stepped into the water identifying with you. • When you partake of Communion, let the cup remind you that His blood truly flowed, securing eternal forgiveness. • Lean on the Spirit’s testimony in Scripture; He keeps water and blood before your eyes so your hope stays anchored in Christ alone. |
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