The Spirit leaves an indelible mark on those who belong to His truth. They love the people of God and they keep the commandments of God. These are the evidences of genuine faith which John points out for our assurance.

Children of God is marked by their love for the people of God. In contrast to this is the children of the devil who are marked by their hatred for the people of God.

John explains that lawlessness is incompatible with the children of God. No born again child of God continues in a state of rebellion against the Lord. He cannot do so because the seed of God abide in him. He is born of God.

God’s love in taking us His children is stupendous. Not only are we called His children by name, but we bear His resemblance as those who practice His righteousness.

We are to remain committed to Scripture, the teaching of the apostles (Acts 2:42), the foundation of the church (Eph. 2:20, the faith once for all delivered to the saints (Jude 3).

John reminds us that we are living in the last days (lit., “the last hour”). He points us to this reality and helps us to see that the world is and has been ready for the judgment of God which the coming of Christ will bring.