Why is it important to "remain in what you have heard" from the beginning? The Call to Remain “Let what you have heard from the beginning remain in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father.” (1 John 2:24) What “From the Beginning” Means - The original, apostolic gospel proclaimed by Jesus and His eyewitnesses - Sound doctrine handed down without alteration (Jude 1:3) - The unchanging word that “lives and abides forever” (1 Peter 1:23) Why Staying Anchored Matters • Connection to Christ – Remaining in the message keeps us “in the Son and in the Father” (1 John 2:24). – Jesus: “If you continue in My word, you are truly My disciples.” (John 8:31) • Protection from deception – “Many deceivers have gone out into the world.” (2 John 7) – “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit.” (Colossians 2:8) • Assurance of eternal life – “The promise He Himself gave us is eternal life.” (1 John 2:25) – Those who “hold firmly to the word” are presented holy and blameless (Colossians 1:23). • Guarding the gospel for the next generation – “Continue in what you have learned and firmly believed.” (2 Timothy 3:14) – The pattern of sound teaching must be entrusted “to faithful men.” (2 Timothy 2:2) How to Remain in the Word - Daily reading and meditation (Psalm 1:2) - Obedient application—“be doers of the word” (James 1:22) - Fellowship with doctrine-sound believers (Acts 2:42) - Regular hearing of faithful preaching (Romans 10:17) - Testing everything by Scripture (Acts 17:11) Promises for Those Who Remain • Ongoing fellowship with the Triune God (1 John 2:24) • Growing assurance and joy (1 John 1:4) • Fruitful living—“whoever abides in Me…bears much fruit” (John 15:5) • Victory over the evil one (1 John 2:14) • A secure crown—“Hold fast what you have, so that no one will take your crown.” (Revelation 3:11) Warnings Against Departure - “We must pay closer attention… so that we do not drift away.” (Hebrews 2:1) - “If we or an angel from heaven preach a gospel contrary… let him be accursed.” (Galatians 1:8) - “Everyone who goes on ahead and does not remain in the teaching of Christ does not have God.” (2 John 9) Encouragement for Today Stay rooted in the truth you first embraced. The same gospel that saved you sustains you, secures you, and equips you to stand firm in a shifting world. Let it dwell richly in your heart, and you will enjoy unbroken fellowship with the Father and the Son—now and forever. |
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