1 John 2:27 affirms the direct guidance of the Holy Spirit: "The anointing you received from him remains in you. And you do not need anyone to teach you... remain in him". The Anointing refers to the Holy Spirit, the good Teacher who is real and not counterfeit. This verse does not reject the necessity of community or teaching, but warns against placing an intermediary between oneself and God, thus diffusing personal responsibility. The Holy Spirit's instruction is always Christ-centered, directing us to remain in Christ. We are free in Christ, but that freedom is best exercised by listening to the Spirit's voice, which will always point back to Christ. We must be willing to be still and listen to ensure we are walking in relationship, face-to-face with God.