1 John 2:12: I write to you, little children, Because your sins are forgiven you for His name’s sake.
Note the titles used as John addresses his Christian readers: “little children … fathers … young men … little children.” What is he referring to? To begin with, “little children” refers to all believers. Literally, this word means “born ones.” All Christians have been born into God’s family through faith in Jesus Christ, and their sins have been forgiven. The very fact that one is in God’s family, sharing His nature, ought to discourage him from becoming friendly with the world. To be friendly with the world is treachery! But something else is true: we begin as little children—born ones—but we must not stay that way! Only as a Christian grows spiritually does he overcome the world. 1
Loving Him
The difference between living for Him and living for the world comes down to a daily, personal decision. Will I live like a forgiven sinner, or will I live like I know nothing of His redeeming grace. Will I only be a childish Christian, or will I chose to grow up spiritually and live my life sold out for my King?
Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. James 4:4
Loving Others
We all begin our walk with childish immaturity, but may we end it with grown-up maturity. – TWEET IT
Changing Me
Lord, thank You for Your complete forgiveness of all my sins.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
