1 John, Day 5 Readings

Complete Trust in God 

Today's reading provides the conclusion to 1 John.  In some ways, it offers a bookend to the letter.  Having begun by emphasizing the validity of the author's testimony, it offers proof of God's testimony through Jesus.  This should encourage Christians to follow the teaching in this letter, whatever may come.

After this, there is a postscript or epilogue, which offers further encouragement to Christians.  While cautioning that some sins are mortal, which here likely means that they prevent a person from experience true life -- and thus, they will not be able to enjoy eternal life with God, it reminds Christians that God is anxious to offer forgiveness and guidance, if only a Christian will ask.  In fact, God protects those who have come into life and light from the harshness and darkness of the world.

Read 1 John 5:1-21  (NIV)   (NRSV)   (CEB)

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Reading the Bible in Its Entirety

If you are planning to read the Bible in its entirety, you should read 1 John 5 today.