Today we are beginning a summer series on the epistle of First John in the NEW TESTAMENT. The Apostle John begins his book in a dramatic fashion, with an exalted prologue that is meant to give you absolute assurance, deep conviction, and unshakeable confidence in your faith.

John uses 4 words to emphasize the certainty that Jesus, the crucified Man, has risen from the dead.

That which was from the beginning, which we have HEARD, which we have SEEN with our eyes, which we have LOOKED AT and OUR HANDS HAVE TOUCHED — this we proclaim concerning the Word of Life. 1 John 1:1

John is teaching that the Apostles, including himself, are eye, ear, and hand witnesses to the Risen Savior Jesus Christ. John is declaring to us that he has carefully heard Jesus teach; and now he has seen with his own eyes that Jesus has risen from the dead; that he has clearly studied Jesus to make sure it was really Him; and that he investigated by touching Jesus’ body with his own hands and even touching the scars of crucifixion himself! Not only did Jesus let “doubting Thomas” touch His body after the resurrection (John 20); but He let all the disciples carefully examine Him and touch His body and see the scars. Jesus is alive! The crucified Man has risen from the dead! Jesus is the Son of God, the Christ, and the Savior of the world!

If you struggle with doubts; if you are not sure that your sins are forgiven and that you are saved; if you wonder if Jesus really is God, the Savior of the world –> then all you have to do is read the first four verses of First John in the NEW TESTAMENT. John writes to give you absolute assurance, deep conviction, and unshakeable confidence in your faith. He, and the other Apostles, are eye, ear, and hand witnesses!

The Apostle John begins his 1st Epistle with strong words of confidence and assurance: John and the other apostles are eye, ear, and hand witnesses to the crucified and Risen Savior Jesus Christ! He writes these things to give you absolute assurance, deep conviction, and unshakeable confidence in your faith. You are exactly where you need to be; by trusting the New Testament you are in fellowship with the Apostles, with God the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ, Amen!