The Profile of a Believer (1 Jn 2:3-6)

The comprehensive ministry of Christ (his forgiveness, his defense and sacrifice on our behalf) successfully brings the most wayward of sinners into communion with the God of light. There is no darkness that the work of Christ cannot overcome in those who are truly repentant. This can give the wrong impression that it doesn't matter how a believers live their life - after all, Christ's sacrifice covers all and any sin one might commit. John reminds us that salvation in Christ is not a free license to sin. Those who claim to personally know God will obey his commandments, imitating Christ. This, in turn, gives believers the assurance that they do indeed truly fellowship with God.