I John 2:1-11

“We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands” (3). John was not talking about being sinless; he reminded believers that when we fail, Jesus forgives us (1-2). John was referring to a new orientation of the heart that we experience when we turn toward Jesus in faith. He warned believers to beware of people who claimed to know Christ but did not exhibit genuine love toward brothers and sisters. “Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness” (9). God’s love cannot coexist with hatred.

When we experience God’s love poured out in Christ for us, our hearts are changed toward others – “made complete” (5).