1 John 2:3-6 3 By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. 4 The one who says, “I have come to know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; 5 but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him: 6 the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.
Is this passage primarily about assurance, a condition, or neither? I see a condition of sorts. Those that know Christ (i.e. have intimate fellowship with Him) keep His commandments. The condition to knowing Him is keeping His commandments. I understand that no one can keep Christ's commandments perfectly; but generally speaking the life of a true believer in Christ will be evidenced by obedience. If the life of a professed believer is defined by consistent disobedience, then that profession lacks credibility.
Another argument I have seen about this passage is that "By this we know" is speaking of assurance. "Know" is synonymous with assurance.
Thoughts?
Is this passage primarily about assurance, a condition, or neither? I see a condition of sorts. Those that know Christ (i.e. have intimate fellowship with Him) keep His commandments. The condition to knowing Him is keeping His commandments. I understand that no one can keep Christ's commandments perfectly; but generally speaking the life of a true believer in Christ will be evidenced by obedience. If the life of a professed believer is defined by consistent disobedience, then that profession lacks credibility.
Another argument I have seen about this passage is that "By this we know" is speaking of assurance. "Know" is synonymous with assurance.
Thoughts?