The apostle John declared, “This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith” (1 John 5:4). But how can we utilize this faith? John gives us the answer in v. 5, “Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?” There is great victory available to Christians to conquer the world. This victory is Christ’s own victory over the dark powers.
Faith accepts Jesus the Son of God as a personal Savior. Such a faith appropriates Jesus’ victory over the world and duplicates it in the life of the believer. It is not a mere mental knowledge of the truth but it is a living trust in God’s Word that leads to genuine actions. “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1)
Like the paralytic who, Jesus commanded to rise, some attempt to do the impossible things in their lives (John 5:5–9). But on their own they are not capable of living holy lives than was the paralytic man capable of walking. They know their helplessness, and wish for that spiritual life which will bring them into accord with God’s will; they are unsuccessfully trying to have it. And In despair they cry, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?” (Romans 7:24).
Let these weak ones look to Jesus. The Savior asks them with tenderness and pity saying, “Do you want to be made well?” (John 5:6). Christ bids them to arise in health and peace. And as they make the decision to rise from the pit of sin, the life-giving power of God comes into their lives and empower them to do what they by faith have willed. But if they rest and wait for the Lord to carry them up from sin, nothing would happen. Their faith must hold on God’s Word and promises, and act upon them before that power can be theirs.
They should not also wait to feel that they are made whole. Rather they should believe Jesus’ word, and it will be fulfilled. They should purpose to serve Him, and in acting upon His word, they will receive strength. Whatever may be their sins, their weaknesses that captivate their souls, Christ is able and eager to deliver them. And He will surely give life to the soul that is “dead in trespasses” (Ephesians 2:1).
Jesus promised, “for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you” (Matthew 17:20). He affirmed that no difficulties, however great they may seem, can deter the triumph of His divine purpose to save sinners (Isaiah 45:18; 55:8–11).
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
