Remain

Friends, this week's study has focused on crucial themes: the last hour, the Antichrist, many antichrists, remaining in Christ, and our confidence in our salvation.

“The last hour” began in John’s day and has only grown in intensity. There were ungodly false teachers then, and they have continued to increase in both number and influence over the centuries. We must know what we believe and why we believe it. Does it make any difference what we believe? It makes all the difference in the world. Those around us who oppose Christ can easily lead us astray if we are not grounded in the truth. This deviation can range from joining a cult to simply placing money, sports, or achievements as idols above Christ. We must know and believe the truth and can detect lies when they come our way.

By bringing attention to "the last hour," the Apostle John lays the groundwork for recognizing the one known as the "Antichrist." While 1 John and 2 John explicitly mention the Antichrist, references to this adversary, the evil one or Satan, appear throughout Scripture, from Daniel to Paul's writings in Thessalonians and John's Revelation. John urgently calls us to look for “the ones that left us” because we are indeed in “the last hour.” Those who have left—the antichrists—are deceivers, liars, and presenters of false information.

John’s writings, from his gospel to his epistles, emphasize the importance of remaining in Christ. The Greek word "meno," meaning to remain, dwell, or abide, underscores this call. Remaining in Christ provides assurance and protection. How do we guard our minds, hearts, and souls? By remaining, abiding, and dwelling in the presence of Christ. By abiding in Christ, we stay connected to the source of all truth and life. The Holy Spirit, who dwells within us, continually guides us into all truth and helps us discern what is false. Let us commit to deepening our relationship with Christ and relying on the Spirit’s guidance to navigate the challenges of our faith journey.

When we remain in Christ, we have confidence in His power. John repeats this throughout his first letter (1 John 3:2; 4:17), assuring believers of their confidence for the day the Lord returns. We will see Him fully as He is. The mystery surrounding Christ’s return can sometimes elicit fear or uncertainty. But regardless of the day or the hour, believers can rest assured in the certainty of Christ. If we remain with Him, we will be with Him at His return, unashamed because we have been living in light of His righteousness.

Abiding in Christ gives us confidence for His return and empowers us to live righteously. Our righteousness reflects our relationship with Christ and our commitment to His teachings. By abiding in Him, we draw strength and guidance to live in a way that honors God and aligns with His will.

Take some time in prayer, acknowledging that there are times that you struggle with remaining in Christ. Name those times to the Lord and ask Him to bring truth from Scripture to your mind.

By grounding ourselves in the truth of God's Word and leaning on the Holy Spirit, we can confidently navigate the challenges of our faith journey and remain steadfast in Christ. Let’s commit to seeking truth and abiding in Jesus daily.