![]() In 2:15-17 (see notes), John wrote about the source, objects and results of the world's understanding, the world's viewpoint. From the world - 1 John 4:5-6 from the world… from God… listens. This is the work of the Spirit, who dwells in and among them, and who attests to Jesus truthfully (see note on 2:20). But, they have overcome the deceiver and his lying spirits, because they have held fast to the truth of the gospel. John's readers were not necessarily stronger or smarter than those who were deceived and departed from their fellowship. The one who is in the world- 1 John 4:4 the one who is in the world. On the other hand, spirits of antichrist (see note on 2:18) are active in the world, denying these truths, though the Antichrist himself has yet to be revealed (see notes on 2:15-17). To test the spirit behind a prophetic claim, John gives his readers a template: they must acknowledge that Jesus is the Messiah, and that he came from God into the world by taking on human flesh. Both here and in 4:6, John describes the role of the Spirit as attesting the truth of about Jesus' identity, life and mission. See the Introduction and notes on 2:19 for more on the events that motivated John's letter. This is similar to Paul's guidance for the Corinthian and Thessalonian churches to value, but test prophecies (see notes on 1 Cor. Thus, John stresses evaluation and discernment. Though John emphasized the anointing of God's Spirit on the community (see notes on 2:20, 27 3:24 4:1-3, 13), those who had gone out also claimed to be inspired by God's Spirit. Test the spirits - 1 John 4:1 test the spirits. John warns his readers that they must exercise discernment. The verses use the word "spirit" seven times, and the subject reverts back to the theme of loving one another in v. The Spirit's job is to bear witness to the truth about Jesus (4:1-6), which includes the truth about those who abide in his words, that is to say, those who keep his commands God's Children Overcome the Spirit of Antichrist.- 1 John 4:1-6Verses 1-6 are a self-contained unit about the importance of evaluating prophecies, because not all spirits who give utterance are holy. These characteristics of Christian life and fellowship, obedience to Christ and the gift of the Holy Spirit, provide assurance of an authentic knowledge of God. Remain in him - 1 John 3:24 remain in him… the Spirit. Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. ![]()
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