“We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. 4 Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. 5 But if anyone obeys his word, love for God[a] is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: 6 Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.” 1 John 2.3-6
Many years ago, I read the book In His Steps by Charles Sheldon. It’s the book where we get the phrase “What would Jesus do?” or WWJD. This story is told from the perspective of a pastor who is challenged by 1 John 2:6 to live out this verse in every aspect of his life. It is radical and life-altering for him and his church. The challenge was simple: before every decision, pray, “What would Jesus do?” and then do that very thing.
In all honesty, I am afraid to pray that prayer. I fear the radical transformation that might disrupt my life. I think if I truly prayed that prayer, I would have to take my family and leave behind all I know and love—possessions, salaries, worldly attachments, and so forth. I fear the things I hold dear might not be as dear compared to the urgent need to make disciples and save souls from hell.
However, my reasonable self suggests that I have already submitted to Christ in many ways and that what He has me doing now is indeed what He might do. Yet I know there is always room for more surrender, sacrifice, and submission.
In verse 3 of this passage, John writes that the proof of knowing Jesus is obeying His commandments. By obeying God’s Word, we love God, and that love for God is “truly made complete in them.” Is God’s love made complete in you? Do you love God as Jesus said in Matthew 5, “perfectly”? And lastly, “this is how we know we are in Him”: do what Jesus did.
Who is to judge our actions? Can I judge others who may or may not be living according to God’s commands? My friend who died this week and battled depression—was he living up to God’s commands? How often do we get it right 99% of the time, but that 1% leads us to disobedience and sinful actions?
Our goal is to live like Jesus, but that does not mean we have or even will achieve it perfectly. Just as we strive to be entirely sanctified, will we accomplish this in this life? 2 Corinthians 5:9 says, “We make it our goal to please Him…” Yet our goal may not become our reality in this life. We are imperfect people, but with a perfect God who can help us become more like Jesus.
The command, therefore, is to love God and imitate Jesus. Strive for this each and every day.
“O Lord God, Your Word is true! And yet, it is difficult! I wish I were able to live 100% for You. It is my desire to please You, to serve You, and to walk with You as You walked. Help us be the people You have called us to be, and offer grace when we fail. Pour out Your Holy Spirit upon us, save us, and rescue us from the challenges of this world so that we might become all that You have designed us to be. I love You, Lord, and praise Your name. Thank You for Your loving kindness. For You are good, and Your love endures forever.” Amen