As John was bringing his first short letter toward its closing, he stated a purpose of his writing similar to what he stated in his Gospel. (John 20:31) We read. . .
“(13) I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.” (1 John 5:13 ESV)
The Greek word used by John here is not “ginosko” (to know, as to have knowledge based on experience), but is from “oida” (to know by perception). As we believe in the Son of God, knowing Him to be so based on the declaration of the power revealed through His resurrection (Roman 1:4), we can properly perceive that in Him is power to fulfill all associated with His Name. Have we come to truly believe?
In believing that Christ is the Son of God, it is in His Name that we are baptized for the forgiveness of our sins. (Acts 2:38; 10:48; 19:5) It is in Him we are sanctified or made holy. (1 Corinthians 1:2) It is in His Name that we are justified. (1 Corinthians 6:11) It is in His Name that we have salvation. (Acts 4:12) And it is at the Name of Jesus that every knee should bow in both the earthly and heavenly spheres. (Philippians 2:10)
With all of this in mind, Paul declared his preparedness for being imprisoned and even to die for the Name of Jesus. (Acts 21:13) He believed! He trusted! And because he had come to know (Gk. “oida”) Him in Whom he believed, he was convinced of being guarded until the day of the Lord’s appearing. (2 Timothy 1:11-12) Believing in the power of the Lord and all associated with His Name, Paul pressed on assured of his salvation in Christ. That was the confidence John wanted for his readers, which includes even us reading his words today. Therefore, whatever we do — whether it be our words or deeds — let us do all in His Name (Colossians 3:7) as we continue trusting in His power to save to the uttermost! (Hebrews 7:25)
Have a great day PROPERLY PERCEIVING THE POWER OF OUR SALVATION!
Carl
