When Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem after spending some time away, he discovered that the priests and people were violating nearly every covenant commitment they had made. They were going right back to their sins from the past. Among other things, it demonstrates our ongoing need for Jesus’ grace. Unless Jesus gives us the grace and power we require to live for Him, we won’t do it.

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Were John’s original readers perfect? No…they were in various states of Christian maturity (just like all of us). But they knew and believed in Jesus. And as long as they had Jesus, they had all they needed. The benefits Christians have from knowing Jesus are amazing!

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One of the most common questions asked of pastors: “How can I be sure that I am saved? How can I know?” The apostle John provides some answers in Chapter 2 of his letter, telling his readers that they could have real assurance that they knew Jesus. The evidence of His grace is seen in His work within us.

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God had done an amazing thing among the people in allowing them to build the wall, so it was time for the people to praise God for all He had done. God wants all His people to do the same: He has saved us as individuals, and we should individually give Him praise!

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Is there a way to continue with fellowship even as we acknowledge the reality of sin? Yes! This is the plan that God has for us through the ongoing work of Jesus.

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In Chapter 10, the people commit themselves to the Lord their God, publicly affirming that they would do things God’s way. Obviously, they wouldn’t be perfect…but they needed a starting point. So do all of us. There comes a time when we need to make our decision to follow Jesus, to commit ourselves to Him.

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Many people say they want to know God; few actually do. Why? Because there is only one way: through the incarnate Son. Today, let us be among those who declare Jesus to the world…and let us be those who believe the message!

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The people of Jerusalem wanted a new commitment and future with their God, but they couldn’t move forward without first acknowledging their sins of the past. So, they did…and as they did, they reaffirmed the goodness and abundance of God’s mercies toward them.

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As Peter brings his letter to a close, he gives one last exhortation. Christians are to be looking for the Lord Jesus, but as we wait we don’t do nothing; we are to be proactive in our waiting – we are to be diligent to grow in our discipleship.

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When the people of Jerusalem heard God’s word read to them, it made a massive impact on their lives. They couldn’t get enough of it, and it changed them…just as God’s word always changes us.

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