Read 1 John 3:23-24 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
1. What commandment are we given?
2. What is a defining marker of those who obey God’s commandments?
3. How do we know He lives in us?
Reflect
John closes out chapter 3 with a reminder that no matter what the world says or what our feelings lead us to believe, the Christian life is summarized in two commandments: believe in Jesus and love other people. All of this is grounded in a life that remains in fellowship with God.
When Jesus died on the cross, the Temple curtain was torn in two from top to bottom (Matthew 27:50-51). This curtain created separation from the Most Holy Place. Prior to Jesus’ death, only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place once a year to seek atonement for sins. The curtain was massive – 60 feet high and 30 feet wide – and in one moment, Jesus’ sacrifice tore down the barrier between God and people, inviting us into God’s presence.
What does this mean for us today? There are no barriers for us to be with God. His presence isn’t accessible by anything we know, do, or feel. It’s accessible because of Jesus. As we spend time with Him, He shapes us and grows us, equipping us to live and love like Him.
Respond
• Do you find yourself struggling to believe in Jesus or to love other people? What do you think is holding you back?
• In a typical day, what barriers tend to keep you from entering into God’s presence? Is there a practical step you could take to start removing those barriers?
• Do you tend to define your relationship with God by what you know, do, or feel? How does today’s reading shift your perspective?
Pray through these questions, and write down what God is prompting you to do next. Share with a friend, and take a step to apply it.