Bible Passage: 1 JOHN 3:1-9

“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. - 1 John 3:1”

Today’s bible passage is a powerful reminder of who we are in Christ and how that identity shapes our lives. It calls us to reflect on God’s immense love, to embrace our distinctiveness from the world, and to pursue a life of purity and righteousness.

The simple question for you is, are you a child of God? Apostle John tells us in John 1:12 AMP who a child of God is: _”But to as many as did receive and welcome Him, He gave the right [the authority, the privilege] to become children of God, that is, to those who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) His name”. Hitherto, every human being is God’s creation but something unique must happen to translate the person to becoming a child of God: you must be born again to lay claim to being a child of God (John 3:3). This identity isn’t something we earn; it’s a gift, a manifestation of divine grace (Eph. 2:8-9)

To be a child of God means that we are deeply loved and cherished by Him as our Father. It means that we have a special relationship with God, where He cares for us, guides us, and provides for us. Being a child of God also means that we have a new identity in Christ. We are forgiven of our sins, redeemed, and made new through His sacrifice on the cross. This new identity empowers us to live a life that is pleasing to God, turning away from sin and walking in righteousness. The greatest thing that can happen to one on earth, is to become a child of God.

Christians often feel out of place or misunderstood. This is a natural consequence of our new identity in Christ. Have you ever felt that your values clash with societal norms? This feeling underscores our distinctiveness as God’s children. John calls us to a life of purity, driven by the hope of becoming like Christ. Purity isn’t just about moral conduct; it’s about aligning our hearts and minds with God’s will., The one born again, daily purifies himself by God’s word. No true child of God continues to live in habitual sin (v.9; cf Romans 6:1-2). Anyone who claims to be a child of God, but still living in sin, he/she is a liar.

ACTION:
Being a strong member of the church without a definite encounter with Christ is not salvation. It’s important that we make real peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, help me to constantly pursue righteousness and holiness in line with my new identity as a child of God.