“That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.” (I John 1:3) The Apostle John states the purpose for which he wrote this Epistle in the last chapter: “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have sternal life...” (Ch. 5:13) Here in the prologue of the Epistle he sets forth what makes this knowledge...

“And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake. But there shall not an hair of your head perish. In your patience possess ye your souls.” (Luke 21:16-19) Jesus is describing the severe persecution His disciples will endure in this life. Among other things, religious leaders will falsely imprison them, harshly judge them, and even try them before civil...

“The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.” (Rom. 8:16) Can I know that I am saved? How can I know that I am saved? These questions are of the utmost importance. Among religious folks we might hear either of two answers that are of opposite extremes, neither of which have solid basis. Many today have a “know-so salvation” based on something they have done - perhaps a certain prayer they said, or a decision they made, or even a feeling they had....