Beyond a Shadow of a Doubt: Finding Security & Certainty in ChristSýnishorn

It can be hard living on this side of eternity as believers. We know that we belong to God’s kingdom but also struggle residing in the kingdom of this world. At times, we find ourselves getting caught up in the kingdom of this world, following its ways instead of the ways of God’s kingdom. John warns us in 1 John 2:15–17 to not love the world as followers of Christ. His words remind us that followers of Jesus look to God’s kingdom and seek to love God more than the things of this world, choosing to do His will rather than following the ways of this world.

When John says to not love the world or the things of this world (1 John 2:15), he is not talking about the good things of this world. Though corrupted by the Fall, God’s creation is beautiful and is to be enjoyed (1 Timothy 4:4, Psalm 24:1). There are simple joys that God has graciously given us, whether that be good food, books to read, or a cozy sweater. The things of this world that John is referring to are sinful practices that the world often commits. He speaks to these practices in verse 16, explaining how the ways of the world often involve lust and pride. These practices and actions are not from the Lord nor are they the ways of His kingdom.

So as believers, we are to focus on what is eternal—God and His kingdom—rather than what is passing away. This involves following the Lord and doing His will instead of allowing the sinful ways of the world to influence us. It looks like loving God more than anything and enjoying the good things of this world without finding our ultimate satisfaction in those things. Though this can be hard to do at times, through Christ, we have received the Holy Spirit who empowers us to do God’s will. As we remember the kingdom that Jesus has brought us into and rest in the Spirit’s strength, we will be able to live in this world with our eyes focused on God’s will and ways.

Reflect and Respond

What are some things of this world you should let go of? How does looking to God’s kingdom encourage you to not love the things of this world?