Overcoming the World

View daily reading plan: 1 John 5.4-5

Another feature of those who have been “born of God” is that they overcome the world. Young men overcame the wicked one (2.14); Spirit-taught believers overcame the antichrists (4.1-3); people who have been genuinely born again overcome the world.

What is meant by “the world” was explained (2.15), but the tense of the verb “overcometh” indicates that there is no end to the war with the world; there is constant conflict. The world has never kept God’s commandments (v.2) but the person who believes “that Jesus is the Son of God” submits to these commands and thus places himself at variance with the world.

Morally, ethically, and in lifestyle you are different, and “they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot”, and so they will “(speak) evil of you” (1 Pet 4.4). In the face of such a hostile reaction genuine faith will refuse to compromise and  conform: “this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith”. It is sadly possible that someone who is perceived to be a “worldly Christian” is really a worldly person devoid of saving faith. The Son of God declared, “be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (Jn 16.33). Genuine faith in Him allows us to share His victory.

Thursday, 16 May, 2024