05/31/2026
In our passage this morning (1 John 5:13–17), John reminds us how we can grow in assurance and live with genuine confidence before God. Near the close of his letter, John tells us why he has written these things: “that you may know that you have eternal life” (v. 13). Our assurance is not rooted in perfect performance or our Church attendance, but in the finished work of Jesus Christ and the promises of God to all who believe in His Son. John also reminds us of the incredible privilege of prayer. Because we belong to Christ, we are invited to come before God with confidence, knowing that He hears us when we pray according to His will (vv. 14–15). Prayer is not merely a religious routine, but assurance of our fellowship with our heavenly Father. Even when we do not fully understand His timing or purposes, we can trust that He hears every sincere prayer offered through Christ. This passage also calls us to take sin seriously—not only in our own lives, but in the lives of fellow believers. John encourages us to pray for brothers and sisters who are struggling spiritually, reminding us that love for one another includes spiritual concern and intercession (vv. 16–17). At the same time, we are reminded that God’s grace is greater than our weakness, and that Christ continues to restore and sustain His people. And perhaps the great question this passage leaves before us is this: Are we living with the confidence that belongs to those who truly know Christ? John calls us to rest in God’s promises, draw near to Him boldly in prayer, pursue holiness seriously, and continually depend upon the grace found in Jesus Christ alone.