1Jn_3:4. Walking in Truth
"For I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in the truth."’971Jn_3:4.
Christian ministers are often represented as the fathers of those who are converted through their ministry. Hence Paul’s declaration, 1Co_4:15. So of Timothy also, whom he calls his son it the gospel. Now, we expect the parent to be solicitous for the welfare of his child; parental affection will of necessity produce it. The same will apply to the Christian ministry. Hence, what anxieties the apostles displayed for the spiritual welfare of their flocks, &c. See Gal_4:19.
I. What is it to walk in Truth.
1. Sacred attachment to the doctrines of the gospel.
All error dangerous; some essentially.
2. Sincerity of conduct, in opposition to mere profession and guile.
3. A closer walk and conformity to the spirit of Christ.
He is truth, &c.
II. The means by which it may be promoted.
1. A close acquaintance with the word of truth.
"Let the word," &c.
2. A rigid regard to the ordinances of the truth.
They then wait upon the Lord, &c.
3. Fervent prayer to the God of truth.
III. The Motives by which we should be influenced.
1. Christ’s sake.
2. Church’s sake.
3. Our own sake.
Safety, comfort, usefulness, future glory.
Autor: JABEZ BURNS