PODCAST
On Guard
November 29th, 2014
2 John 1:1-13
While Talmadge served as a General Superintendent for the Church of the Nazarene, he and his wife had the delightful privilege of traveling Canada over a two-year period. In addition to growing in their love for the people of Canada, they became quite familiar with the national anthem, “O Canada”. He especially recall the heartwarming lines, “We stand on guard for thee/God keep our land glorious and free!” It is a powerful statement of commitment that emphasizes the importance of watchfulness.
In John’s second epistle, he focuses on the imperative of loving God, keeping His commandments, and walking in love. He also warns his readers to watch out for deceivers masquerading as a type of Christ. In this brief epistle, John instructs us to practice zero tolerance for evil: “If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them. Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work” (vv. 10-11).
As Canadians proudly sing of guarding the nation they love, may we guard our hearts, minds, and souls that we “may be rewarded fully” (v. 8).
Author: W. Talmadge Johnson
