A Thought For The Week Of October 1

"You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." (1 John 4:4) Who is the "them" John refers to? Who are we to overcome? In context, the verse seems to be talking about false prophets; people who claim to be messengers of God but who really bring the message of what John calls "antichrist" - that which is opposed to God, Christ and gospel. Let go of the Hollywood thoughts about the antichrist. We're not talking about a baby born as the spawn of the devil. The spirit of antichrist is all that divides us and makes us selfish and self-centred. It is all that makes us forget the call of the cross - the call of sacrificial love for the sake of others. I would say that there are people infected with this spirit, but antichrist is not a person. It's exactly what it sounds like - it's that which opposes the reconciling, loving, grace filled and life giving work of Christ in our midst. We need to stand for Christ and not antichrist. Standing for Christ isn't subscribing to a political program or a social program or an ideological position or even a religious affiliation. It's simply doing the things that Christ did to the best of our abilities. Friends, have a great week, and remember to represent Christ to all whom you encounter!