1 John 2:6 (NASB)
“6 the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.”
Abiding in something is often translated as ‘remaining’. But in order to remain we must first have a beginning. This verse says that if we say we are remaining in Him (Christ) then we must continue after our awakening. I believe it was John Punshon who taught our spirit must be quickened by the Holy Spirit in order to become a believer and follower of Christ. John 3 highlights that each of us must have a spiritual birth sometime following our natural or human birth. This is not as complicated as we often try to make it. From the moment of the spiritual birth we are urged to abide in that same relationship throughout eternity, 1 John 2:18-27. Always we are to follow the Spirit of Christ inwardly and outwardly, which means obeying His words and Spirit given to help guide us. This abiding is nurtured by our fellowship with others who are likeminded. Finally, the followers of God need the genuine family or community of God to encourage and flourish always.
Queries: How have you produced life in others since your own new birth?
What service can you render to help others in their spiritual growth walk?
Action Step: Take some time today and reflect upon your life’s journey from the moment you became aware that Jesus Christ had become real in your life?
Prayer focus: Today ask God to direct you in your preparation and anticipation of joining the Triennial meetings in Kisumu, Kenya. How is God directing you to build relationships that reflect Christ in you, no matter where you live? What may God be saying to you personally about your part in making the Triennial a truly spiritual moment for all Quakers?
Ron Bryan
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