The church father Jerome (ca 400 AD) preserved an ancient tradition of the extreme old age of the Apostle John. Apparently, the apostle's followers grew weary of his constant repetition of the words, "Little children, love one another," which was all he said when he was often carried into their assembly. They asked him why he always said this. "Because," he replied, "it is the Lord's commandment, and if it only be fulfilled, it is enough,"
We have been viewing the various nuances of meaning surrounding this command of Jesus. Today we discover the impact that obeying this 11th commandment has on us. In a word, it is confidence.
1. Confidence of a clear heart before God, vv. 19-21.
2. Confidence of answered prayer from God, vv. 21-23.
3. Confidence of the abiding presence of God, vv. 23-24.
Scripture:
Revelation 12:10
Hebrews 7:5
1 Timothy 1:12-15
Romans 8:14-16
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
A God-centered confidence is the wonderful result of loving one another!
