PROVISION FOR PROTECTION "But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things . . . But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him." (1 John 2:20,27-29 -- Tomorrow:
THE EFFECTIVE TEACHING
" . . . just as it has taught you, you abide in Him."
Here we come to the heart of the issue: ABIDING IN HIM (Jesus). Let it be clear that remaining in Christ requires your effort, and yet is not accomplished by your effort. There is a perfect correlation with Philippians 2:12-13. "So then, my beloved, just as YOU have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for IT IS GOD who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure."
This is but another way of saying we are taught effectively by God. As it is written, "And they shall be all taught of God" (John 6:45). He accomplishes this teaching through the Holy Spirit, "the anointing," and the Spirit works with the truth of the Gospel in teaching us. In this manner, we work out our own salvation, yet God works within us as well, bringing glory to His great name.
The result of the Spirit's effectual teaching is simply, yet powerfully, stated. "you WILL abide in Him." This is the way the Lord keeps us from falling (Jude 24-25). It is a primary way in which Jesus cares for His sheep leading them to glory (Heb 2:10). All of this postulates sensitivity of heart in "the elect," as well as a hearty appetite for the truth, and a profound longing for the return of the Lord. Where these qualities do not exist, there will be no teaching. Where there is no teaching, there will be no abiding. Where there is no abiding, there is no hope.
Thus we again see there is no salvation that excludes Divine activity. While men haggle about whether or not God works in the saved, the "anointing" continues to teach those who do not quench Him. As He teaches them, a spiritual consistency is developed within them, and they remain in the Son.
What a "great salvation" we have! It is no wonder that Satan extends himself to take it from us. He is crafty, and his power is far greater than that of mortals. Yet, because of "the anointing," his most subtle ministers and deceiving schemes can be detected and rejected. When he comes, transforming himself into an "angel of light" (2 Cor 11:14), "the anointing" teaches us. When his deadly ministers come "transformed as ministers of righteousness," "the anointing" teaches us.
God be praised, the influence of the Spirit of our God is greater than the influence of Satan. To those who receive it, it penetrates deeper than Satan is able to reach, thereby stabilizing the soul and protecting our persons. There is no valid reason for any believer being deceived! Our Lord has made abundant provision for our protection. If we are deluded, it is only because we have quenched and grieved the Spirit.
PRAYER POINT: Father, in the name of Jesus, I thank You that He that is in me is greater than he that is in the world.