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Antichrist
Brian Mashburn
May 2, 2010
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Antichrist
As we continue reading this letter that John was writing to his community, we find out in Chapter 2 that trouble is afoot. John is feeling a great angst in his heart over a split within his church family.
So what we read today is part emotional outburst and part coaching on how to get through it. One gets the sense that John is writing as much for himself as for them.
He reminds them that this kind of thing is to be expected given the timing (2:18). He consoles the feeling of family betrayal by saying that those that left them must have never been one of us, since they left (2:19). He reminds them of the authority they have, based on Christ, to be sure of the truth for which they stand, to feel confident that they can tell when something (or someone) is anti-Christ, and to not be shy to call these falsehood, lies, and anyone who promotes them, liars (2:20-23). Finally, he reminds them that their best possible life, God’s life, will remain theirs only by remaining with Jesus Christ.
So, what do you think? Does the way we regard Jesus Christ matter as much as John thinks? Does having an accurate view of Jesus really alter our experience of God? Could it jeopardize whether or not we “get” the abundant life that Jesus came to give?
There is no question that John thinks so. He says that if you don’t have the real Christ, then you don’t have the Father.
The Greek word for “antichrist” can mean “opposing” Christ, or “countering” Christ. That is, there are things (or people, or doctrines) that are black and white against the salvation that Jesus offers. Most of us can see these things pretty clearly.
But the things that counter Christ…things that try to substitute themselves as our Messiah, our Savior…we must guard against most diligently. How easy is it to hold on to the name of Jesus Christ in word, but depend on something other than Christ for our security, means of life and blessings, and even our salvation.
John says, “remain in the Son and in the Father.” Good advice.