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The lyrics of "Walking in His Ways" capture a spiritual truth rooted deeply in the epistle of 1 John. Central to this song is the exposition of 1 John 2:3-6, which says:
> "We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did."
Let us look at what the Word of God says about knowing Him and walking in His ways, as it provides both foundation and assurance for the believer’s daily walk with Christ.
The epistle of 1 John is written by the Apostle John, a direct disciple of Jesus Christ, during a time when the early church faced challenges and criticism from false teachers. John's letters address the practical outworking of faith in daily life and provide tests for determining genuine Christian faith.
Drawing us back to the fundamental question, "How can we know with certainty that we know Him?" John is addressing spiritual confidence and assurance. His audience, early Christians, were often in a conflict of discerning truth from deception. Here, John lays down a simple, yet profoundly significant standard: If you know Him, you will obey Him and walk as Jesus walked.
### "Know" (Greek: γινώσκω, ginōskō)
The term “ginōskō” holds a deeper meaning than mere intellectual acknowledgment. It signifies an experiential, intimate knowledge. Unlike a superficial acquaintance, it implies a process of learning and coming to understand through practical experience. In Jewish tradition, to "know" God carried connotations of a covenant relationship — a deep, personal association characterized by love, trust, and obedience.
### "Complete" (Greek: τελειόω, teleioō)
In verse 5, the word "complete" comes from "teleioō," meaning to bring to an end, finish, or accomplish. This isn't about attaining perfection in the sinless sense, but reaching maturity and being thoroughly equipped. Love is truly mature — complete — in those who keep His Word.
Stanza 1: A Call to Obedience
The phrase, "We know that we have come to know Him if we keep His commands," emphasizes that obedience is the evidence of knowing God. Jesus Himself said in John 14:15, "If you love me, keep my commands." Obedience is not mere legalistic compliance but is rooted in genuine relationship and love.
Stanza 2 and 4: Authenticity of Faith
"Whoever says, 'I know Him,' but does not do what He commands is a liar." John makes it unequivocally clear that genuine faith must be corroborated by action. James echoes this in James 2:17, stating, "Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."
Stanza 3: The Test of Living Like Jesus
The repeated urging to "walk as Jesus walked" demonstrates that our Christian walk should mirror the life and character of Christ. Ephesians 5:1-2 exhorts us to "imitate God... and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us." The life of Jesus was characterized by submission to the Father and love for people.
Stanza 5: Completion of God’s Love
"But if anyone obeys His word, love for God is truly made complete in them." This echoes 1 John 4:12, "If we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us." Obedience completes and perfects our love for God, shaping us to be more like Christ.
In pursuit of walking as Jesus walked, there are clear steps we can take:
1. Immerse in the Word: Saturate your life with the Scriptures. Hebrews 4:12 tells us that the Word of God is alive and active. Allow it to illuminate your path and refine your character.
2. Active Obedience: Begin with small acts of obedience. Romans 6:13 urges us to present ourselves to God as instruments of righteousness. Recognize opportunities in daily life to obey God’s commands.
3. Cultivate Relationship: Pursue deeper intimacy with Christ. James 4:8 promises, "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you." Spend time in prayer and worship, seeking to know Him fully.
4. Reflect His Character: Live out the virtues of Christ: humility, love, patience, and mercy. Galatians 5:22-23 highlights the Fruit of the Spirit that reflect Christ’s character.
Proclamation:
In faith, declare, "I know that I am in Him because I walk as Jesus walked. His love is made complete in me as I obey His Word."
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your Word that guides and transforms. Fill me with Your Spirit, empowering me to walk in obedience and to live as Jesus did. May Your love be perfected in me, and may I reflect Your character in all I do. I commit to knowing You more deeply, that my life may testify of Your goodness. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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