It was revealed in 2015 that NBC news anchor Brian Williams, fabricated a story about being in a helicopter that was hit with enemy fire. Military personnel who had been with him publicly objected that such a false claim because it detracted from the heroism of our service men and women. Video records were scoured to document that the helicopter Williams rode in had, in fact, not been hit and to prove Mr. Williams’ repeated claims were a falsehood. These records were so compelling that Mr. Williams was permanently removed as the anchor of NBC news. He learned that records, video or otherwise, are important.

The Apostle John told his readers the purpose for his first epistle: “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life” (I John 5:13). John previously heard the Lord Jesus teach: “…He that heareth my word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation, but is passed from death unto life” (John 5:24). The Savior was promising eternal life to any who put their complete trust in the message that eternal life is only found through a trusting faith in God the Son. In clear wording, Christ taught: “I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live (John 11:25). Similarly, He taught: “I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me” (John 14:6). It was in this overall context that John continues in his first epistle by saying: “this [Scripture] is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He that hath [through a trusting faith in] the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life” (I John 5:11-12). Prior chapters indicated other qualities that would be present in the life of a true kingdom believer. John was confident his readers had true saving faith in Christ. His epistle was intended to serve as a divine record of proof these believers could count on so that they would “know” they possessed eternal life.

There are many dispensational distinctions in John’s letter that apply only to Israel. However, we today, likewise, have a written record in Ephesians 1:13 assuring us of eternal life. Confidently stand fast in this assurance!