Read 1 John
When I was in college, 1 John became my favorite book in the New Testament. The 60’s were chaotic with riots, demonstrations, war and changing morality. Away from home for the first time, everything was challenged. It can make you doubt a lot of things.
1 John gives us assurance in times of change. The apostle John was an old man who had seen it all in his lifetime, the miracles of Jesus, the death burial and resurrection, the rise of the church and the persecution that came. Consider this a letter from a grandfather who has seen it all and wants to reassure you—God loves you!
One of my favorite verses, 1 John 4:11 echoes our church mission of “Letting God love us and love others through us.” It says, Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” As you read 1 John, let the love of God wash over you and comfort you.
- Marcus Bigelow is the Northern California Representative for Convene
