Affirmed

1 John 2:12-14

The book of 1 John is a powerful declaration of what it means to be a Christian.  Its statements are incisive, dividing people into those who have God the Father in them and those that do not.  Its black and white statements cut to the thoughts and intentions of the heart.  They challenge the reader by providing a clarity that is striking.  However, in the middle of Chapter 2, the letter changes style.  Logical prose gives way to poetry; John begins to affirm his Christian readers, and in doing so, reveals the foundation of their identity. 
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The foundational truth of the believer in Jesus is the forgiveness of sins.  Because of what Jesus has done, through faith, the sins of all who believe have been completely washed away by the blood of Jesus.  This has been accomplished not through our own effort, but for Jesus’ name.  Through the forgiveness that has made us holy, the name of Jesus is exalted above every other name.  From our reconciled relationship with God, we now know the Father, we recognize and hear His voice speaking to us.  Through the passion of Jesus Christ, who died on the cross, we are born again to new life, and have overcome all the works of the devil.  As we wait upon the Lord, the Holy Spirit empowers us and grants us new strength to face the day.  The Holy Spirit is present to remind us of God’s word, and hides it in our hearts.  It’s the word of the Lord living inside of us each day that produces new life and transforming power.  This message is not given as something to strive towards, but as an affirmational truth.  A description of who we are in Jesus Christ.  Today may you realize who you are in Jesus, and see the overcoming power and strength of the Lord in your life, and fully realize that you have been forgiven, and made in every whole by the blood of Jesus!