How do we 'know that we know'? 1 John 2:3-11

The first verse of our text is remarkable!  'We know that we have come to know Him... if we keep His commands'.  John wants his reader to know beyond a shadow of a doubt that there IS a connection between knowing and doing - especially when it comes to knowing Jesus!  It is not possible to truly know and love Jesus and not pay attention to His commands.  John is writing this to correct the thinking of some of the believers who were saying that knowledge was all important - ethical living didn't really matter.  John especially uses the light/dark imagery to highlight that our knowledge of Jesus must be lived out in relationships with people around us.  We cannot say that we know Jesus and hate our brother / sister at the same time!! 

Question for consideration:  How would you define this English word 'know' in the way in which John is using it here?  What is included in the idea when this word is used?

Next Sunday, May 5, we will pay attention to 1 John 2:12-17 which tells us that we have overcome the evil one through Jesus, but also offers a significant warning so that we may be on guard against the temptations of our world.  Following our consideration of this passage, it will be our privilege to share in the Lord's Supper (Communion) together. We would love to have you join us!