Get With The Program

John tends to say things so simply that we get confused. He describes the world in black-and-white terms, but then we look at our messy lives and assume his meaning is much more complicated. While John’s straightforward language does carry a lot of hidden depth, his core message is as simple as his words suggest.

One of John’s most prominent themes is walking in the light—living as Jesus did, following his commands, and trying to be more like him. John says that if you’re doing these things, you’re following Jesus; if not, you aren’t (1 John 2:3-6). When we hear this, we tend to think of our flaws—like disobeying God’s commands—and become confused. It sounds like we have to be perfect to follow Jesus, but that’s not what John is saying.

John’s meaning is simple. Imagine a famous soccer player like Cristiano Ronaldo offering to train you. If you meet with him regularly and do his practice drills, then you’re his student, even if you still aren’t as good at soccer as he is. It’s the same with our faith. Do you seek God’s kingdom? Do you meet with Jesus in prayer, meditation, and study? Do you love everyone? If you’re making a serious effort at the things Jesus asks of us, then you’re his disciple, even if you aren’t perfect. But if you aren’t really trying—if you’re skipping your lessons—then you are not his student.

When God first gave His commands to humanity, no one could really follow them because of human brokenness and sin. Jesus reformatted them into a training program that helps us grow and inspire others to do the same (1 John 2:7-8). He shows up personally to do the training. So get with the program! Life is a lot better with Jesus as your personal trainer.

Watch the full sermon here.