1 John 2:5-6

John’s use of the phrase "in Him" is different from Paul’s. Paul used this phrase to describe every believer’s relationship to Christ because of his or her justification. The unsaved are not "in Christ." However, John used "in Him" as Jesus did in the Upper Room Discourse to describe not all believers but the group of believers who abide in Christ (John 15:1-8). In John 15:8 Jesus said, "By this [abiding] is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit. So you will be my disciples." To abide in Christ means to obey Him (John 15:10).

"Thus the test of ’abiding’ in him is, as before, whether or not the claimant is living a life of obedience to God." [Note: Smalley, p. 52.]

Abiding in Christ is another synonym for having an intimate relationship with Him, as are having fellowship with God and knowing God experientially. John’s point was that a believer who is abiding in God will obey God just as Jesus Christ abode in God and gave evidence of that by obeying His Father. John used the word translated "abide" (Gr. meno) 24 times in 1 John (1 John 2:6; 1 John 2:10; 1 John 2:14; 1 John 2:17; 1 John 2:19; 1 John 2:24 [thrice], 27 [twice], 28; 1 John 3:6; 1 John 3:9; 1 John 3:14-15; 1 John 3:17; 1 John 3:24 [twice]; 1 John 4:12-13; 1 John 4:15-16 [thrice]). This indicates a major emphasis on the believer’s abiding relationship in this epistle. The obligation of every Christian is not just to obey God’s orders (1 John 2:4-5) but also to follow the example of His Son (1 John 2:6).

"We cannot claim to abide in Him unless we behave like Him." [Note: Stott, p. 92.]

"Johannine imitation means to follow as a disciple, a completely dedicated adherent and advocate." [Note: Yarbrough, p. 90.]

The next few verses explain what it means to behave as Christ did.