Today is a get-right-with-the-Lord day. When we read through this scripture, you know the question you will be asked already. There is no way to hide the subject of this scripture. This message, ladies and gentlemen, will have to include in it some chastisement. Praise God there is always encouragement, even in chastisement, in scripture.   Look at Proverbs 3:12, “Whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.” However, even today there is a reprieve in the 29^th verse where we find those who practice righteousness are born of Him. We find proof, living proof of our salvation – Jesus Christ’s righteousness coming out of us.

This question then begs on all pastors, preachers, teachers of the Word, evangelists of all sorts, missionaries, and everyone who ministers for the Lord. Why, if in business and our professional life, we demand so much of ourselves just to survive in this temporary existence, why are we not as demanding upon ourselves in our pursuits for eternal life? If we will and do this, look our best, make special plans, and adjust our schedules for mere successful men, why then are we not properly preparing for our King?

Prepare to meet Christ (verse 28)

Here we find the phrase “little children” again. This is a direct appeal to look at the “now” in that loving, pastorly John fashion. Now that you have been informed of these false teachers, now that you know what the difference is between knowing mentally and knowing in your heart, now remain/abide.  Ladies and gentlemen, living in Christ is probably one of the most vital things with which John is concerned. Some statistics will help you understand. The word translated “remain” is used over 118 times in the New Testament, and 24 times here by John. That is fully 20% of its usage. John uses it mostly in chapter 3 and 4 into 5, but the usage begins in chapter 2.
Remaining is a very vital part of a Christian life. Moreover, where a believer is concerned, remaining in Jesus Christ in persecutions and trials, as well as just a normal testimonial life with Him at the center, is a vital part of our assurance of salvation. That abiding life at the center of your spiritual life is what produces the fruits of the Spirit that Paul talks about in Galatians. We cannot know man’s heart, but His fruits do belie him, do they not?
Remaining in Christ Jesus is a vital issue with regard to any assurance you may have concerning your salvation. Sure, you might fall away, but what is the overall testimony in your life? Do you testify Christ in all facets of your life, or is there somewhere you do not let Him Live?