I write these things to you about those who are trying to deceive you. But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in him.
1 John 2:26–27
Sometimes a voice sounds so convincing that we begin questioning what we know is true. Perhaps we have missed something. Perhaps someone else has discovered what we have been lacking.
John understood our tendency to question ourselves and lean towards uncertainty. People who denied the truth about Jesus were trying to lead believers astray. He reminds Christians that they have already received God’s anointing. “The anointing” he mentions is the Holy Spirit’s presence and instruction.
When John says they need no one to teach them, he is not dismissing faithful teachers. He is reminding them that the Spirit helps us recognize and hold to the truth about Jesus. Christians do not need someone claiming privileged insight to supply what some believe the gospel lacks.
We need to remember the truth of the gospel when an impressive speaker makes its foundational truths seem insufficient. We lean on the Holy Spirit, knowing that His guidance agrees with the Word He inspired. We can bring our questions to Him, open our Bibles, and ask other believers for help. We grow as we “abide,” allowing the gospel to take deeper root in our lives.
Father, we admit that impressive voices can easily capture our attention. Thank You for the Holy Spirit, who remains with us and guides us toward Christ. Sharpen our understanding through Your Word, protect us from spiritual pride, and help us to recognize teaching that strays from the gospel. We submit ourselves to Scripture and surrender our desire to follow voices that offer anything beyond Jesus.
Remaining in Him,
eep
