Watch & Keep

2 John 7-8 Many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. 8 Watch out that you do not lose what you have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully.
 
FALSE teachers must have been a constant threat to the early church. Think about how new to the ears it would be for th world to hear: Son of God became man; he was crucified, dead and buried. The third day he rose from the dead. Believe in Jesus, and you will have eternal life in glorious heaven!
    This is an amazing truth – not easy for man’s limited mind to grasp. In response, many tried to fit the gospel into human terms. This is always false teaching. It is antichrist.
    John’s and the apostles’ response was firm against the antichrists. There was no such language as, “You can believe as you desire.” or “When you’re ready to believe, I’ll be here.” God does not wait for you. He acts in his will and time. Thus, John warns to “Watch out!” so you do not lose what you have worked for, and you will not be rewarded fully. Protect, keep what you have.
    Does this say we will lose our salvation if we believe some of the lies? The Bible’s evidence is the Spirit keeps your salvation. One truly born again into faith in the Spirit’s power is saved forever.
    However, the Bible is also very clear that there are people who speak of faith; yet, they deny some truth of Jesus. Some do not accept his forgiveness. Some deny his authority. Many deny his resurrection. They may even say they believe in these things but deny Jesus in their lifestyle. Matthew 7:22-24 “Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’ 24 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” True believers are firm in Truth. They have “worked” to listen and respond to live “life to the full” (John 10:10) as the Good Shepherd promises. They recognize deceit because they know the truth.
    Is this you? Rejoice, then, in your salvation! The perfect Son of God has formed you to watch and keep your faith full of truth.
 
Life Thought: Luke 10:23-24 “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. 24 For I tell you that many prophets and kings wanted to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.”