The Proof is in the Pudding

1 John 3:18-24

My grandmother made the best banana pudding in all of Alabama. However, the pudding was not very pleasing to the eyes. At first glance, you would probably pass over her pudding for a beautifully decorated two-week-old doughnut. Sadly, you would have missed out on the best banana pudding that ever passed your palate. I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “the proof is in the pudding.” The meaning of this well-known quote is that you can’t judge the quality of something until you’ve tried, used, or experienced it.

John is writing to encourage the disciples of Christ and to remind them that if they obey Christ in deed and truth, then they have the power to withstand persecution and to carry on with living a life in Christ. He reminds us that our love must be more than word or speech. Truth and action is the proof that we have love. How do we know someone belongs to Christ? The proof is in the pudding--- in one’s capacity to love with action and in truth. Jesus taught the disciples how to recognize true and false prophets--- by their fruit. (Matthew 7:15-20)

Later in this passage, John reminds the disciples that God has given believers a commandment, and in keeping this commandment, they are able to remain in relationship with Christ. A simple, 2-part commandment that any of us can obey is this: “Believe in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, and love one another.” Believe and love is the proof that we are in Him. Just like my grandmother’s pudding – sweet and simple. Such a palatable pudding with an eternal satisfaction.

“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him” Psalm 34:8

Prayer

I give thanks to you, O Lord, because your steadfast love endures forever. You have modeled to me perfect love, sending your only son to pay the price for my sin. Out of humble thankfulness, teach me how to love as you love. Give me a new heart that trusts in Jesus and loves other people. May I participate in your love by actively loving others. May I lay down my selfish desires, my want for the things I see. Open my eyes to see the unseen, the things of your kingdom, the things that will last forever. Help me to remember that nothing can separate me from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.

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