“And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. ” (1 John 5:11-12)

John assures his audience of the authenticity of their faith. He reminds them that they know God on an intimate and personal level. This relationship is not reserved for a few spiritual elite. It is their right by virtue of their standing in Christ. Consequently, believers have the right to pray with audacious boldness. They can approach God in prayer with a confidence that allows an openness in which they can freely speak their mind without fear. Such boldness is improper for nonbelievers and also false ones: it is the privilege of the believer.

In addition we believers can be bold about stating that our faith is the absolute truth in this world where truth is relative and subjective, where people compose their spirituality and religion based on emotions, desires and philosophy. We who have faith can be bold in sharing our faith as well, though this will lead to anger, disharmony, and persecution. We can and should be bold because those who reject faith in Jesus are doomed to eternal separation from God.

Our relationship with Jesus is not a product of human striving or effort. It is made possible only by means of the blood which Christ shed on the cross. His blood is the means whereby God has reconciled man to Himself. Man approaches Him not on his own merits but through Christ Himself, who alone acts as our intercessor and High Priest. Salvation and unity with God Almighty is found only in and through Jesus.