1 John 2:18-27 "Truth Never Changes"

Read 1 John 2:18-27.

"I am writing these things to you about those who are trying to lead you astray." NIV

This is an interesting passage because it is one of those that to be totally understood, you must know the context in which it was written and to whom it was written. Remember that one of the main purposes of this letter is to refute Gnosticism.

I want to focus specifically on verses 24-27. John says that we need to be sure that "what you have heard from the beginning remains in you." In their case it was the truth that the apostles taught them. The same is true for us through the written Word, but it can also be through preaching, teaching, and discipling that we have received. Keeping the Truth of Jesus Christ hidden in our hearts and not opening the door to distortion or doubt is our first objective. Truth does not change; our Lord is the same yesterday, today and forever. So anyone that tells me this is not Truth is claiming an evolution of Truth which is not possible. And that's a trick of the enemy.

Secondly, the Holy Spirit is our daily teacher. It is through the anointing within us that we are to be guided through the process of daily living. He is our True Counselor and Guide. The Gnostics believed that they had a higher anointing, but Jesus told us that each of us would receive the anointing of the Holy Spirit. He lives within us. There isn't a higher anointing than that.

Further Thoughts:

1. What is your initial action when you need Truth? Do you seek it from your family and friends? the Bible? Oprah? 
   
2. Can we have an absolutely complete understanding of the Bible? Why or why not?
   
3. What is the relationship between our understanding of the Word and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in our lives?
   
4. Are you allowing any Truth doubters into your life? Why? (I'm not speaking about non-believers you are trying to develop a relationship with. I'm talking about people who are trying to convince you that Truth is not Truth.)