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“I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.”

1 John 2:14

Being identified with Christ comes with privileges—the forgiveness of sins, eternal life, and inclusion in God’s family. However, our relationship with the Lord also involves a series of battles with temptation and sin (Romans 7:15-16). This reality is only true of us because it was true of Christ before us (Matthew 4:1-11). Thankfully, we are not alone in the fight.

In today’s verse, John continues to address believers and remind them of their position. He reiterates his purpose of writing to the fathers (spiritually mature) that they do have an experiential knowledge of God. John touches on a divine attribute: God’s eternal nature. The Bible indicates that at the beginning of time, God already existed (Genesis1:1) and Jesus, before becoming man, was already living (John 8:58).

The Apostle once again mentions the young men (believers who have experienced triumph over sin) and says they are “strong” (Greek “ischuros”). This adjective means “strong, mighty”, which speaks of a person who has the strength to sustain Satan’s attacks. It’s important to note that this strength does not come from within but from God’s word that abides in a Christian.

Satan, also known as “The Accuser” and “The Tempter” relentlessly accuses and tempts believers 24/7. John sheds more light on this subject in Revelation.

“And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony, and they loved not their lives unto the death.”

Revelation 12:10-11

Satan’s accusations are nothing but empty slurs because when people place their trust in the finished work of the Lord Jesus, the Lord’s sacrifice covers all their sins. How can an already defeated Enemy condemn us if the victorious Savior is on our side? There is nothing Satan can do to change God’s verdict: you have been made righteous because of Christ’s sacrificial death (Romans 8:1). This is why Paul calls believers, “overcomers.”

Are you feeling down, dejected, and defeated? If so, you’re probably forgetting who you are and what Jesus has done for you. Look to the Cross and remember that God sees you differently. In His sight, you’re ischuros, and you’re an overcomer.

Pursue the Savior today!