DO YOU KNOW JESUS?

This question seems simple enough. But consider the following from I John 2:3-6: "And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked."

First, this text speaks of the possibility of knowing Jesus. To "know" can mean to come to knowledge of, to recognize, or understand. We know Jesus as the Son of God (Matthew 3:17) as the Savior (Matthew 1:21) and as the Christ (anointed – the one chosen to be prophet, priest, and king.) But the word "know" as used in our text means much more. We may say we know someone, when in reality we are only casual acquaintances. Others may know them on a much more personal level. When John wrote concerning knowing Jesus, he was making reference to a familiarity with Jesus, a close relationship with Jesus.

Second, this text speaks of the proof of knowing Jesus. Proof of knowing Jesus is not to be found in "personal testimony" (verse 4). Some people may say (incorrectly) they are "witnessing for Christ," but that is no proof they know Jesus. The Bible teaches it is possible for a person to say he knows Jesus, yet be a liar. The real proof that we know Jesus is that we keep his commandments. Jesus taught that love for him results in obedience to him (John 14:15). Which commandments are we to keep? All of them! When we realize our need for Jesus and fully submit to God, we will not be selective in terms of our obedience.

Third, this text speaks of the process of getting to know Jesus. Verse three could be accurately translated: "And hereby we do know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments." This speaks of a knowledge that is developed over a period of time. Our love for God is perfected, or made complete, when wee keep his word (I John 2:5). How can we get to know Jesus? In much the same way we get to know others (our friends, spouse, etc.). We communicate with them. We can get to know Jesus by reading what he has communicated to us (Hebrews 1:1-3, I John 1:5).

Do you know Jesus? In light of I John 2:3-6, the question is not quite as simple as it sounds.