Reading for April 19th

 Read 1 John 5.13-21. In 5.13-21: Conclusion. In verse 13: The beginning of the conclusion resembles Jn 20.31, with the most significant modification that believers may know that they have eternal life. In the face of the disturbing threat of the opponents, the assurance of believers become the crucial issue. In verses 16-17: Mortal sin, leading to death or unforgivable (compare Mk 3.29). In verses 18-20: The letter concludes with three affirmations of knowledge. We know ... do not sin: see 3.4-10. We know that we are God's children, see 4.4, 6. Over against this, the world lie is the power of the evil one (see 3.12; 2.15-17; 5.4-5). We know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding of the one who is true. Some texts correctly interpret this as a reference to God, the true God; the father (see Jn 17.3. In verses 21: Idols, God is the source of eternal life, but idols are lifeless and powerless. Opponents deal only with idols, not with the God who is true. Comments or Questions..