1st.John 4:15-19 "Whosoever shall confess that JESUS is the SON of GOD, GOD dwelleth in him, and he in GOD. And we have known and believed the love that GOD hath to us. GOD is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in GOD, and GOD in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as HE is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear; because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love HIM, because HE first loved us."
The study of today's text will be richly rewarding. The first two verses set forth the glorious news that GOD dwells within all who are saved. What comfort and assurance this truth brings to the hearts of believers who live and witness in these days of consuming fear ! Verse seventeen explains that the believer is delivered from fears both present and future, including the day of judgment. The climax of this text comes in verse eighteen where GOD wants the saint to know that HIS perfect love casts out all fear - no qualifications, no exceptions. Sadly, many believers today have taken their eyes off CHRIST and the Scriptures, seeing only the stormy seas being churned up by Satan. However, to be effective witnesses for CHRIST, we should live and speak confidently and calmly, even if we are enduring the greatest trials we have ever faced.
According to the WORD of GOD, conditions will grow worse rather than better before our LORD's return (2nd.Timothy 3:13 pictured above). The misguided charismatic and evangelical leaders who prophesy or teach that worldwide revival will take place prior to the rapture are contradicting and twisting the Scriptures. The error that the church can "bring in the kingdom" is also unbiblical, for it denies the future, literal fulfillment of Bible prophecy. Huge programs of ecumenical prayer, worship and evangelism will end in GOD's judgement, not HIS blessing, because they are unscriptural. To the persecuted, faithful remnant CHRIST said, "Fear not, little flock; for it is your FATHER's good pleasure to give you the kingdom" (Luke 12:32 pictured above). To the church of Smyrna HE said, "Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer" (Revelation 2:10a pictured above). May we likewise take heed ! MHR
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie
Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.
Used with permission. www.featoday.org
https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation
