Abiding in Christ Part 3 1 John 3:11-18

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "Abiding in Christ Part 3 1 John 3:11-18"

Transcription

1 Abiding in Christ Part 3 1 John 3:11-18 Introduction: This week, we are continuing our look at what the Apostle John believes it means to Abide in Christ. It isn t an easy read, but it is an essential one for the church. To the Believer it provides both Blessed Assurance that they have been reborn through the blood of Christ and also continued renewing of their minds and hearts when it reveals remnants of their old self that need to be repented for to deepen their joy and walk with the Lord. For the False Convert (remember that this letter was written to the church), it gives pause to consider whether their hearts and lives have truly been transformed by the Holy Spirit, and if it be God s will, to repent and trust in the person and atoning work of Jesus Christ. That is why this is truly a letter about Christian love. This is not the plastic, Hollywood, good time rock & roll kind of love that the fallen world continually counterfeits in books, movies, and TV, but the true love of God poured into and out of all those who truly love Him and are regenerated, by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone. This is God s Agape love that loves the unlovable that loves those who persecute it that loves the least of these. John is beseeching us to ask ourselves, Do we truly love God and His children as He does? o Because By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another (John 13:35). There are many things that we do (both consciously and subconsciously) to display the fact that we are Christians. On our cars, we put fish symbols personalized license plates with Bible verses bumper and window stickers. On our bodies, we put t-shirts with Christian logos and sayings and necklaces, bracelets, and earrings depicting the cross. In our homes, we put Bible verses, pictures of Jesus and crosses on the walls, along with Bibles on our shelves and tables. But Scripture is clear that there is one thing which universally marks us as disciples of Christ and that is when we put on and display His love. In these verses, John helps his flocks to better understand the characteristics of the true Christian Agape love that Jesus and the Holy Spirit had taught him about, by comparing the difference between one who Abides in Christ and one who Abides in Satan (truly the only two kinds of people in the world). I. He Who Abides in Christ Practices Righteousness & He Who Abides in Satan Practices Evil: For this is the message which you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another; not as Cain, who was of the evil one and slew his brother And for what reason did he slay him? Because his deeds were evil, and his brother's were righteous. Do not be surprised, brethren, if the world hates you (v ) a. God s Children Practice Righteousness: For this is the message which you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another i. John is revisiting his teaching from chapter 2:7-11, where he first dealt with the message that Christian love had been heard from the beginning. The same love that God had spoken of, through Moses and the prophets in the Old Testament, was revealed in the person and work of the only Son of God, Christ Jesus. ii. Jesus taught A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. (John 13:34) Just as we saw at the end of our last outline, Real love is the greatest righteousness, and real righteousness is the greatest love. (David Guzik). iii. Everything we do should be motivated by love love for God and love for one another.

2 iv. It is worth remembering that I believe John is writing in the same context as our last passage, where the operative word was practicing (even though it isn t used here). For no one is truly good or righteous except God but those who have reborn and abide in Christ are now practicing or habitual doers of righteousness. b. Satan s Children Practice Evil: not as Cain, who was of the evil one and slew his brother. And for what reason did he slay him? Because his deeds were evil, and his brother's were righteous. i. Cain killing Abel is the first account in history of hate rising to its ultimate and evil conclusion, murder. John makes it clear that Cain slew his brother, because he was of the evil one. ii. The Greek term used here for evil one (Poneros / pon-ay-ros') denotes determined, aggressive, and fervent evil that actively opposes whatever is good. This is the evil that has always characterized Satan s children. iii. There has been much theological debate about Cain s motivation for killing his brother. Some say that it was simply jealousy because God liked Abel s sacrifice over Cain s. But, my prayerful research leads me to believe that this is not about jealousy, but instead, about one s relationship with God: (Gen. 4:2-8) 1. The biblical narrative implies that God had most likely commanded an animal sacrifice, which Abel obeyed by bringing of the firstlings of his flock. God was pleased not only with Abel s offering, but with the right relationship with Him, revealed by Abel s heart of obedience and faith: a. 4 By faith Abel offered to God a better sacrifice than Cain, through which he obtained the testimony that he was righteous, God testifying about his gifts, and through faith, though he is dead, he still speaks. (Heb. 11:4). 2. Cain, on the other hand, revealed the condition of his heart by disobeying the divine requirement, and instead, bringing a self-styled offering of the fruit of the ground. As final evidence that he did not truly know God (like the man who was given one talent in Matthew 25:24-25) and of his allegiance to the evil one, he allowed his hate to come to fruition, when he rose up against Abel his brother and killed him (Gen. 4:2-8). iv. As fallen humans, we will all experience, to various degrees feelings of anger, jealousy, and hate the key here is that Cain was of the evil one and therefore he was practicing or habitually hating. v. John s example of Cain hating and ultimately killing Abel because, Abel s righteous deeds revealed that Cain s deeds were evil, is a stark reminder that the ungodly have always hated and resented God s children, because their righteous actions expose the false beliefs and wicked practices of those who are of the evil one. c. An Evil World System: Do not be surprised, brethren, if the world hates you i. Which is why, John warns us to not be surprised, brethren, if the world hates you just as His Friend and Master had warned him that If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you. (John 15:18) ii. Satan s evil world system and those who worship it have always hated the brethren and their righteousness:

3 1. Jesus own town tried to kill Him. (Luke 4:28-29) 2. His nation s leaders plotted to kill Him and finally did. (Matt. 12:14; Mark 3:6; 14:1-2, 6:11; John 10:39; 11:45-47; Acts 7:52) 3. The world persecuted and martyred every apostle but John. (Luke 21:12-13; John 16:2-3; Acts 4:1-31; 5:17-41; John 17:15-16; Rev. 1:9) iii. I know that because we live in a country that was founded on the freedom and respect for God s image, inherit in Christian beliefs, it is hard to believe when some experts report that two thirds of all Christian martyrs have died in the last 100 years. Just because you and I can currently worship as we please we cannot be led into a false belief that Satan s children are not still carrying out their father s evil desires: (John 8:44) II. He Who Abides in Christ Practices Love & He Who Abides in the Devil Practices Hate: We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love abides in death. Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer; and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. (vv ) a. God s Children Practice Love: We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren. i. The first thing I want to focus on here is a foundational element that we discussed back in our second lesson of 1 John, and that is that we know. It is true that God s thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways, (Isa. 55:8) but it doesn t mean that everything is a mystery. In this epistle of Christian Certainties, John uses the term know 36 times, because he wants us to realize that we can know our God and we can know that we are His children. 1. "I have heard it said, by those who would be thought philosophers, that in religion we must believe, but cannot know. I am not very clear about the distinction they draw between knowledge and faith, nor do I care to enquire; because I assert that, in matters relating to religion, we know; in the things of God, we both believe and know." (Charles Spurgeon) ii. In this verse John tells us that as God s children we know three important facts: 1. We know that we were dead in our sin. 2. We know that we have passed out of death to life. 3. We know the first two things to be true, because we love the brethren. a. The new birth (John 3:8; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 1:23), which grants life to the spiritually dead (cf. 2 Cor. 5:17; Gal. 6:15; Eph. 4:24), turns hateful and even murderous attitudes into loving ones (cf. Col. 2:11). (MacArthur) b. "Do you love them for Christ s sake? Do you say to yourself, 'That is one of Christ s people; that is one who bears Christ s cross; that is one of the children of God; therefore I love him, and take delight in his company'? Then, that is an evidence that you are not of the world." (Charles Spurgeon) b. Satan s Children Practice Hate: He who does not love abides in death. Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer i. John makes it clear that when someone is not characterized by God s love, he most likely abides in death, because if God had imputed His righteousness into the person s heart it would naturally and eventually be evidenced by His love.

4 ii. John remembers Jesus clarifying the 6 th Commandment (Ex. 20:13) in the Sermon of the Mount, when he says that Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer: (Matt. 5:21-22) iii. The absence of God s love leaves all the room in the world for Satan s hate. The lost have become experts at hiding their hate for godly righteousness behind kind words and platitudes, self-righteous deeds and philanthropic charities, and excuses and justifications. But regardless of what they show the rest of the world, their hearts and their hate are naked before God and usually over time it will be revealed to the rest of the world. c. A Harsh Reality: and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. i. John summarizes by warning, just as his apostolic brother Paul did, that you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him: (Rom. 1:28-32; cf. 1 Cor. 6:9-10; Gal. 5:19-21) 1. That does not mean that a believer could never commit an act of murder, or that someone who has committed murder can never be saved. But it does mean that those who are characterized by hateful attitudes and who regularly harbor murderous thoughts evidence an unregenerate heart and will perish eternally (cf. Rev. 21:7-8; 22:14-15) unless they repent. (MacArthur) ii. As Paul s vice list shows, it isn t about any one particular sin or type of sin it is the idea of it being a habitual or practiced sin. III. He Who Abides in Christ Practices Sacrifice & He Who Abides in the Devil Practices Selfishness: We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoever has the world's goods, and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him? Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth. (v ) a. God s Children Practice Sacrifice: We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. i. John was there in the upper room that final night when Jesus taught that Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. (John 15:13) Here he reminds us that the love, which God has imputed to us at our salvation, can be demonstrated no better way than through personal sacrifice. ii. Although, there may be a situation where we will be called on to lay down our actual lives for the brethren, it is obvious from the next verse that John is referring to not only dying for the faith, but also living for the faith. 1. We often consider ourselves ready to lay down our lives in one great, dramatic, heroic gesture; but for most of us, God calls us to lay down our lives piece by piece, little by little in small, but important ways every day. (David Guzik)

5 b. Satan s Children Practice Selfishness: But whoever has the world's goods, and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him? i. Satan s rebellion has always been rooted in pride and selfishness. Jesus use of Isaiah 14:12 to describe Satan s fall in Luke 10:18, tells us that not only was Isaiah speaking of the king of Babylon, but also of the devil himself: (Isa. 14:13-14; cf. Ezek. 28:12-17) ii. It is only natural that Satan s child also walks in the pride and selfishness, which allows him, although he has the world's goods, to [see] his brother in need and [close] his heart against him. iii. Today, we hear the term love tossed around a lot in our music, our movies, our relationships, and yes, in our churches. But, what kind of love is usually being talked about? Let s look at four of the foundational Greek words for love that C. S. Lewis focused on in his book entitled The Four Loves. 1. Is Christian love Eros (Er os)? It was the name of the Greek god of love, the Romans called him Cupid. It refers to desire, lust, the sum of all instincts for selfpreservation, and sexual yearning. It is often used to describe erotic love. 2. Is Christian love Storge (Stor ge)? It refers to family love or affection. The Greeks saw it as the instinctive parental affection; such as animals have for their young. 3. Is Christian love Philia (fil-ee'-ah)? It refers to a brotherly friendship. It refers to a strong bond existing between people who share a common interest or activity. 4. Is Christian love Agape (ag-ah'-pay)? It describes an unchanging love that is self-giving. A love that gives without demanding or expecting re-payment. It is a love so great that it can be given to the unlovable or unappealing and it loves even when it is rejected. iv. In a world system based on the counterfeiting lies of Satan, it is important for us to understand and recognize the differences between these four basic types of love. c. An Apostles Plea: Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth. i. John summarizes this passage with a plea for us to not love as the world does, with word or with tongue, but as Jesus our Savior did, in deed and truth. ii. We can see the same truth from the Apostle James: (James 2:14-17) iii. As Americans, most of us live at the level of a king compared to our first century cousins and the majority of the world today. It is the sinful nature of man that allows us to focus our attention only on our families, our friends, our small groups, our Sunday school classes, and our churches, instead of seeing all of our world as our neighbors (cf. Luke 10:30-37). 1. As redeemed sinners, we know that we can never do enough to be saved and that is a good thing! We know it is what was done for us in the person and atoning work of Jesus Christ on the cross that saves wretches like us.

6 2. But, a heart surrendered to the Lord can t help but weep and break with His. Our lesson today challenges us to prayerfully consider what our Lord did, and is doing for His children around the world, the next time we are contemplating the investment of His talents (Matt. 25:14-30) on the latest and greatest thing that this world is telling us we just have to have, if we are ever going to be happy. IV. The Last Word: a. For John, therefore, the differences between Satan s children and God s children could not be more distinct. Those who murder, habitually hate, or are chronically self-centered and indifferent to the needs of others do not have [assurance of] eternal life. But those who, as part of their repentance from sin and trust in Christ, have renounced murderous, hateful attitudes and all cold, selfish indifference to the needs of others give evidence that they have been born again. (MacArthur) b. Being a Christian is more than saying, I am a Christian. There are in fact some who claim to be Christians who are not. How can we know if we are one of these? John s reply has been constant and simple. There are three tests to measure the proof of a genuine Christian: the truth test, the love test, and the moral test. If we believe in what the Bible teaches as true, if we show the love of Jesus to others, and if our conduct has been changed and is becoming more like Jesus, then our claim to be a Christian can be proven true. (David Guzik)

The First Epistle of John: Chapter Three [3:10] 137

The First Epistle of John: Chapter Three [3:10] 137 The First Epistle of John: Chapter Three [3:10] 137 10 By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor the one who does

More information

I John Intro. Purpose Author Date Key Verse Outline

I John Intro. Purpose Author Date Key Verse Outline I John Intro.: In order for us to understand I John, we need to try to understand the situation that moved him to write it. By A.D. 100 there were inevitable changes within the church, and especially in

More information

The Epistles of John Bible Study Guide

The Epistles of John Bible Study Guide The Epistles of John Bible Study Guide First Bilingual Baptist Church 9133 Mines Ave Pico Rivera, CA 90660 (562) 942-7038 fbbchurch.org TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION... 1 OVERVIEW OF 1 JOHN... 3 WEEK

More information

1 John Chapter 3 Verses 11-24

1 John Chapter 3 Verses 11-24 1 John Chapter 3 Verses 11-24 NKJV Notes by Pastor Mike Sasso This is a Matter of Love or Death! Introduction There are many misconceptions in the minds of men concerning what it means to be spiritual

More information

As your group time begins, use this section to introduce the topic of discussion.

As your group time begins, use this section to introduce the topic of discussion. December 18, 2016 Passage: AM-John 15:12-17, PM-Small Group Christmas Party John 15:12-17 NIV 12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this: to lay down

More information

1 John Chapter 3. The world does not know God. It did not know the Son. It does not recognize us as adopted sons, either.

1 John Chapter 3. The world does not know God. It did not know the Son. It does not recognize us as adopted sons, either. 1 John Chapter 3 1 John 3:1 "Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not." Bestowed

More information

1 What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we. have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and touched

1 What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we. have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and touched Chapter 1 : 1 What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and touched with our hands, concerning the Word of Life 2 and the life was manifested,

More information

Love in Action. 1 John 3: Obeying in Love. Lesson 3. 1 John 3:1 24

Love in Action. 1 John 3: Obeying in Love. Lesson 3. 1 John 3:1 24 Love in Action 1 John 3: Obeying in Love Lesson 3 1 John 3:1 24 In a nutshell ~ When was the last time that you remember pausing to think about God s great love for you? John is filled with wonder as he

More information

International Sunday School Lesson Study Notes April 12, Lesson Text: 1 John 3:11-24 Lesson Title: Love One Another.

International Sunday School Lesson Study Notes April 12, Lesson Text: 1 John 3:11-24 Lesson Title: Love One Another. International Sunday School Lesson Study Notes April 12, 2015 Lesson Text: 1 John 3:11-24 Lesson Title: Love One Another Introduction There are several unique truths about the First Epistle of John. First,

More information

Valley Bible Church Sermon Transcript

Valley Bible Church Sermon Transcript Stop Kidding Yourself James 1:19-27 Part Eighteen Joshua 1:8 says, This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according

More information

The Holy Spirit. Who is the Holy Spirit? How does He speak then and today?

The Holy Spirit. Who is the Holy Spirit? How does He speak then and today? The Holy Spirit Who is the Holy Spirit? How does He speak then and today? Why Study the Spirit When studying the Holy Spirit, Christians look back on the study and want to know more. Avoid this by taking

More information

1 John 1 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

1 John 1 New American Standard Bible (NASB) 1 John 1 New American Standard Bible (NASB) Introduction, The Incarnate Word 1 What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and touched with

More information

Hebrews 11: Stanly Community Church

Hebrews 11: Stanly Community Church The Bible is the revelation of God s purpose and plan for mankind, but it also records the faith of those who trusted in Him as the Creator and Redeemer. More than just a list of those who professed to

More information

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO HAVE ASSURANCE IN YOUR FAITH?

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO HAVE ASSURANCE IN YOUR FAITH? INTRODUCTION How do you know that you truly love God and are saved? Having assurance of your faith may be something that comes easily; but for many of us, at one time or another, there is doubt. This doubt

More information

11 - The Assurance of Salvation By David Servant

11 - The Assurance of Salvation By David Servant 11 - The Assurance of Salvation By David Servant Is it possible to have assurance of salvation? Can a person know for certain that, if he died at this moment, he would be saved? Absolutely yes. The apostle

More information

GETTING TO KNOW GOD. Bible Class Series Newton Church of Christ Newton, North Carolina

GETTING TO KNOW GOD. Bible Class Series Newton Church of Christ Newton, North Carolina GETTING TO KNOW GOD Bible Class Series - 2007 Newton Church of Christ Newton, North Carolina GETTING TO KNOW GOD The enclosed series of lessons will be used as a format for the in-class teaching of adults

More information

GETTING TO KNOW GOD. Bible Class Series Winter Park Church of Christ Wilmington, North Carolina USA

GETTING TO KNOW GOD. Bible Class Series Winter Park Church of Christ Wilmington, North Carolina USA GETTING TO KNOW GOD Bible Class Series - 2018 Winter Park Church of Christ Wilmington, North Carolina USA GETTING TO KNOW GOD The enclosed series of lessons will be used as a format for the in-class teaching

More information

1 John 3: 11: For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one

1 John 3: 11: For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one Series: 1 John Title: Love Not as Cain Text: 1 John 3: 11-19 Date: December 13, 2018 Place: SGBC, NJ Genesis 4: 3: And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an

More information

Hebrews 13: Stanly Community Church

Hebrews 13: Stanly Community Church If you really trust Jesus Christ for the righteousness you need to live with God in heaven, then your conduct should reflect a desire for what is right in God s eyes. Anything less betrays a rebellious

More information

One Essential Article

One Essential Article In matters of doctrine you will find orthodox congregations frequently changed to heterodoxy in the course of thirty or forty years, and that is because, too often, there has been no catechizing of the

More information

The Epistles of John

The Epistles of John The Epistles of John The goal of this Bible Class is to give the students a working knowledge of all three of the Epistles of John. It is based on an expository approach to teaching the Bible, with an

More information

Studies in 1 st John 1:1-10

Studies in 1 st John 1:1-10 YES or NO _ 1. Is there reason to understand that the apostle John is the author of this letter? _ 2. Was the apostle John a late-comer who did not witness the teaching and miracles himself? _ 3. Fellowship

More information

A 16 lesson study on the subject of discipleship as viewed from the pen and life of the apostle Peter. Prepared by Boyd Jennings

A 16 lesson study on the subject of discipleship as viewed from the pen and life of the apostle Peter. Prepared by Boyd Jennings Peter & Discipleship A 16 lesson study on the subject of discipleship as viewed from the pen and life of the apostle Peter. Prepared by Boyd Jennings What Is A Disciple? (Lesson #1) Mark 10:17-22, 29-30;

More information

D. LOVE ONE ANOTHER (3:11-24)

D. LOVE ONE ANOTHER (3:11-24) D. LOVE ONE ANOTHER (3:11-24) 11 This is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another. 12 Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did

More information

International Bible Lessons Commentary 1 John 3:11 24

International Bible Lessons Commentary 1 John 3:11 24 International Bible Lessons Commentary 1 John 3:11 24 New American Standard Bible International Bible Lessons Sunday, April 12, 2015 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School

More information

BELIEVER BASICS 101 Session 1

BELIEVER BASICS 101 Session 1 BELIEVER BASICS 101 Session 1 A Christian and Their Life in Christ By Dr. Jensen Petersen, 2012 CrossPoint Ministries, www.jensenpetersen.org Memory Verse That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord,

More information

Twelfth Sunday After Pentecost: Ephesians. 4:30 5:2 Immanuel Lutheran Church, Springfield, IL August 9, 2015

Twelfth Sunday After Pentecost: Ephesians. 4:30 5:2 Immanuel Lutheran Church, Springfield, IL August 9, 2015 Twelfth Sunday After Pentecost: Ephesians. 4:30 5:2 Rev. Darrell Debowey Immanuel Lutheran Church, Springfield, IL August 9, 2015 Ephesians 4:30 5:2: 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom

More information

A New Love June 7, John 2:7-11

A New Love June 7, John 2:7-11 I. Introduction A New Love June 7, 2015 1 John 2:7-11 To talk about love on a morning when we remember God s love as we celebrate the Lord s Table is very appropriate--1 John 3:16 says, This is how we

More information

THE LAW AND THE CHRISTIAN

THE LAW AND THE CHRISTIAN THE LAW AND THE CHRISTIAN One of the main purposes of the law was to reveal sin, to show exactly what sin is (Rom. 3:19-20; 5:20; 7:7). The Apostle Paul became aware of his sinful condition by looking

More information

Big Idea: Because of the light of the Gospel shown us in Christ, we are called and empowered to love our Christian brothers (2:7 14)

Big Idea: Because of the light of the Gospel shown us in Christ, we are called and empowered to love our Christian brothers (2:7 14) 1 Sermon Title: LOVED & LOVING LIVING IN THE GOSPEL LIGHT Text: 1 JOHN 2:7 14 Jason S. DeRouchie, Ph.D. Bethlehem Baptist Church, March 21 22, 2009 7 Beloved, I am writing you no new commandment, but an

More information

Or has it ALWAYS been a gift given by grace to those who believe

Or has it ALWAYS been a gift given by grace to those who believe Galatians 3:6-9 The Example of Abraham 1 Gal 3:6-9 (NASB) Even so Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness. 7 Therefore, be sure that it is those who are of faith who are sons

More information

1 Peter 1:13-19 and 2:24-25

1 Peter 1:13-19 and 2:24-25 1 Peter 1:13-19 and 2:24-25 by Karl Kemp; November, 2013 I'll always quote from the New American Standard Bible, 1995 edition, unless I mention otherwise. Sometimes I'll make comments in the middle of

More information

THE THEOLOGY OF THE NEW TESTAMENT

THE THEOLOGY OF THE NEW TESTAMENT THE THEOLOGY OF THE NEW TESTAMENT Edited from an essay in the ESV study Bible New Testament theology as a discipline is a branch of what scholars call biblical theology. Systematic theology and biblical

More information

I John 1:5 This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

I John 1:5 This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. DEADLY HATE VS. LIFE-GIVING LOVE. Rev. Robert T. Woodyard First Christian Reformed Church January 27, 2019, 6:00 PM Scripture Texts: I John 3:11-18 Introduction. At our Woodyard family Christmas gathering

More information

The Light and the Life. Revealed!

The Light and the Life. Revealed! The Light and the Life Revealed! John 20:30-31 Therefore many other signs Jesus also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these have been written so that

More information

Assurance of Salvation

Assurance of Salvation 1 Assurance of Salvation When we use the word salvation we are referring to being delivered (i.e. rescued, saved) from the judgment of God (hell). If we don t believe that we are sinful or that we will

More information

The Biblical Test of Salvation

The Biblical Test of Salvation The Biblical Test of Salvation By Robert Tuttle I cannot count the number of times I have witnessed someone who professes to have salvation, but lives in such a way as to create serious questions about

More information

Problem/Solution. A Theology of Sin and Salvation

Problem/Solution. A Theology of Sin and Salvation Problem/Solution A Theology of Sin and Salvation Are We Sick of Sin? No One is Righteous before God Romans 3:9-20 But God! Romans 3:21-24 Ephesians 2:1-5 Salvation! God Rescues and Restores The righteousness

More information

THE CHRISTIAN S HOPE (Col 1:1-6) 4. He lifted his eyes from the desperate conditions, & rather than despair he found a reason to hope.

THE CHRISTIAN S HOPE (Col 1:1-6) 4. He lifted his eyes from the desperate conditions, & rather than despair he found a reason to hope. THE CHRISTIAN S HOPE (Col 1:1-6) A. In O.T. times God punished His unfaithful people by means of foreign armies. 1. He once enlisted Babylon to capture, plunder & destroy Judah & Jerusalem. B. God s prophet

More information

Love & Loved. Matt-5: K/V- 24. K/V- 44.

Love & Loved. Matt-5: K/V- 24. K/V- 44. Love & Loved Matt-5: 43-48 Matt-6: 5-18 Matt-6: 24-25 Matt-19: 18-19 Matt-22: 36-40 Matt-23: 1-10 Matt-24: 10-13 Luke-6: 32-35 Luke-7: 36-50 Luke-11: 39-44 John-5: 37-42 John-8: 42-47 John-11: John-13:

More information

One Man s Life and Death

One Man s Life and Death One Man s Life and Death How God Himself became a man in order to die for His creation. Sometimes the truth is stranger than even the best fiction. Imagine the all powerful Creator God inhabiting eternity,

More information

The Three Eternal Destinies #204 Noah, a Preacher of Righteousness

The Three Eternal Destinies #204 Noah, a Preacher of Righteousness October 2003 Vista, California The Three Eternal Destinies #204 Noah, a Preacher of Righteousness 2 Pet 2:4-9 In these verses, Peter makes the contrast between the righteous and the unjust and filthy,

More information

1 st John: John s Salvation Test

1 st John: John s Salvation Test 1 st John: John s Salvation Test Bro. Kory Cunningham We are going to be taking a test in this lesson. This will actually be John s salvation test. Now when I mentioned a test, your mind probably went

More information

STUDIES ON OVERCOMING SIN

STUDIES ON OVERCOMING SIN STUDIES ON OVERCOMING SIN By: Nyron Medina Published by Thusia Seventh Day Adventist Church TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. AN INTRODUCTION ON HOW TO OVERCOME SIN 2. NO. 1 ABIDING IN CHRIST 3. NO. 2 LIVING BY THE

More information

How Did Satan Murder Adam and Eve?

How Did Satan Murder Adam and Eve? How Did Satan Murder Adam and Eve? (Copyright OneTruthOneLaw.com 2018) When Almighty God created Adam and Eve, it was never His intention that they suffer in any way or die. In fact, it was just after

More information

PART III IDENTIFYING THE PROTAGONIST AND ANTAGONIST

PART III IDENTIFYING THE PROTAGONIST AND ANTAGONIST 20 PART III IDENTIFYING THE PROTAGONIST AND ANTAGONIST The first thing to do in any book is find the two opposing sides. There are always two sides, diametrically opposed and never overlapping. What one

More information

THE JOY OF THE LORD IS YOUR STRENGTH (Discuss the context of Nehemiah 8:10)

THE JOY OF THE LORD IS YOUR STRENGTH (Discuss the context of Nehemiah 8:10) THE JOY OF THE LORD IS YOUR STRENGTH (Discuss the context of Nehemiah 8:10) A. As Christian we should give A LOT of thought to our spiritual strength how to increase it. 1. For example, we can increase

More information

3. Hag. 1:7 Thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways!

3. Hag. 1:7 Thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways! SEEING OURSELVES AS WE REALLY ARE! Introduction: A. (Slide #2) God Calls Us To See Ourselves As We REALLY Are! 1. ( ) Ps. 139:23,24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; 24

More information

1 John: Faith and Fellowship

1 John: Faith and Fellowship October 5, 2014 1 John: Faith and Fellowship Lesson Scripture: 1 John 3:1-10 10a HCSB Memory Verse Everyone who remains in Him does not sin; everyone who sins has not seen Him or known Him. 1 John 3:6

More information

What is salvation? Salvation is being saved (another word is delivered) from God s righteous judgement.

What is salvation? Salvation is being saved (another word is delivered) from God s righteous judgement. What is salvation? Salvation is being saved (another word is delivered) from God s righteous judgement. A Closer Look What Are the Consequences of Sin and Lostness? Sentenced to physical and spiritual

More information

Abel, the Son of Adam, Yet Speaks. Hebrews 11:4

Abel, the Son of Adam, Yet Speaks. Hebrews 11:4 Abel, the Son of Adam, Yet Speaks Hebrews 11:4 Genesis 4:1-10 Now Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain, and said, I have acquired a man from the Lord. 2 Then she bore again, this time

More information

Christmas is a wonderful time because it reminds us of God s great love for humanity, so great that He sent His Son into the world.

Christmas is a wonderful time because it reminds us of God s great love for humanity, so great that He sent His Son into the world. The Love of God 1 John 4:7-14 Let me say that I am so glad to see you this morning, on this Christmas Eve. I know that many of you are guests, and we want to extend a very warm welcome to you. I hope that

More information

1Jn 1:5-10 Nov 20, 2016

1Jn 1:5-10 Nov 20, 2016 1Jn 1:5-10 Nov 20, 2016 1Jn 1:5-10 This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with Him

More information

Romans 5: Stanly Community Church

Romans 5: Stanly Community Church There is only one reason unworthy sinners can be reconciled to God: The life of Jesus Christ serves as the sinner s substitute. It is an amazing exchange, which absolutely secures eternal life for all

More information

Some Things Titus Was To Remind Christians In Crete

Some Things Titus Was To Remind Christians In Crete "Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE, Copyright 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation Used by permission." (www.lockman.org) Some Things

More information

STATEMENT OF FAITH of the MAKAKILO BAPTIST CHURCH Kapolei, Hawaii, U.S.A. Adopted 11 December, 2016

STATEMENT OF FAITH of the MAKAKILO BAPTIST CHURCH Kapolei, Hawaii, U.S.A. Adopted 11 December, 2016 STATEMENT OF FAITH of the MAKAKILO BAPTIST CHURCH Kapolei, Hawaii, U.S.A. Adopted 11 December, 2016 1. Of the Scriptures We believe that the Holy Bible was breathed out, that is, inspired by God, written

More information

Through Romans 8, the hope and assurance of the christian is given and laid out like no other passage in the New Testament.

Through Romans 8, the hope and assurance of the christian is given and laid out like no other passage in the New Testament. Introduction Up to here it has been mostly doom and gloom. If we stopped here, we would conclude that we are condemned and everything is futile. The law condemns us, and even without the law we still can

More information

The Three Levels of Maturity. I John 2:12-14

The Three Levels of Maturity. I John 2:12-14 Copyright 2009 Sylvia D. Pearce All rights reserved Published by: Christ, Our Life Ministries, Inc. Po Box 43268 Louisville, Ky. 40253 Program 16 The Three Levels of Maturity I John 2:12-14 Little Children--Forgiven

More information

Jesus Christ Spiritual Lawgiver How Jesus revealed the deeper, spiritual intent of the commandments of God.

Jesus Christ Spiritual Lawgiver How Jesus revealed the deeper, spiritual intent of the commandments of God. Jesus Christ Spiritual Lawgiver How Jesus revealed the deeper, spiritual intent of the commandments of God. The Sermon on the Mount was delivered at the beginning of Jesus Christ s ministry. After choosing

More information

GOD'S AMAZING GRACE. Today I will be sharing on the God s amazing grace. I will begin by looking at three passages of Scripture.

GOD'S AMAZING GRACE. Today I will be sharing on the God s amazing grace. I will begin by looking at three passages of Scripture. GOD'S AMAZING GRACE Today I will be sharing on the God s amazing grace. I will begin by looking at three passages of Scripture. The Apostle Paul wrote, And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses

More information

Love One Another. Calvin Lashway August 2018

Love One Another. Calvin Lashway August 2018 Love One Another Calvin Lashway August 2018 How do people around us know that we are Christians? How do our friends, family, and neighbors know that we are a follower of Jesus? Is it because we believe

More information

5. Jesus Christ, The Sinner s Only Hope How Can I Be Saved?

5. Jesus Christ, The Sinner s Only Hope How Can I Be Saved? 5. Jesus Christ, The Sinner s Only Hope How Can I Be Saved? If no one and nothing in this world can save you, can you be saved? Remember, the standard that must be maintained and satisfied is God s holiness.

More information

CHAPTER ONE. Who Needs Deliverance?

CHAPTER ONE. Who Needs Deliverance? CHAPTER ONE Who Needs Deliverance? The answer to the question Who needs deliverance? is simple: all men and women need deliverance as long as they can acknowledge that they themselves are sinners. We are

More information

Wisdom of the Bible ~ Assurance of Salvation ~ Leader s Guide

Wisdom of the Bible ~ Assurance of Salvation ~ Leader s Guide Wisdom of the Bible ~ Assurance of Salvation ~ Leader s Guide 1. The Bible tells us there are nine things of which we can be sure. They are: A) Our calling and election (2 Peter 1:10a) B) God s abiding

More information

And the commandment, which was to bring life, I found to bring death. Rom 7:9-11

And the commandment, which was to bring life, I found to bring death. Rom 7:9-11 as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned Rom 5:12-13 How did death spread? It was not automatic. God did not do it. Death spread

More information

Christians Deal With Sin Daily Text : I John 1: 5-2:12

Christians Deal With Sin Daily Text : I John 1: 5-2:12 Sermon : Christians Deal With Sin Daily Page 1 INTRODUCTION : Christians Deal With Sin Daily Text : I John 1: 5-2:12 A. Did you every have a disease that just won t go away? Most have. 1. Athlete s foot

More information

is a collaborative initiative by the Ministries Committee of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. It is designed as a wholechurch

is a collaborative initiative by the Ministries Committee of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. It is designed as a wholechurch G r o w i n g D i s c i p l e s is a collaborative initiative by the Ministries Committee of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. It is designed as a wholechurch endeavor, based on the biblical

More information

OFFICERS CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP NEIGHBORHOOD BIBLE STUDIES Fort Leavenworth, Kansas

OFFICERS CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP NEIGHBORHOOD BIBLE STUDIES Fort Leavenworth, Kansas 1 JOHN 1:1-10 Guide 1 We welcome corrections and constructive comments to improve these discussion leaders guides. Points for the leader to remember: 1. Give everyone an opportunity to host. This increases

More information

The Holy Knight. Eph 6:10-17 (10) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

The Holy Knight. Eph 6:10-17 (10) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. The Holy Knight Eph 6:10-17 (10) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Brethren, we are holy knights of God. With the Lord s power we can win. (11) Put on the whole

More information

First John Chapter Three

First John Chapter Three I. Introduction (1John 3:10) We Are Sure About Our Family A. Chapter One was written that our joy would be full, just by maintaining a relationship with Jesus Christ every day walking with Him, worshipping

More information

The goal is orthopraxy (right living), through orthodoxy (right teaching). -- Cultivating the heart.

The goal is orthopraxy (right living), through orthodoxy (right teaching). -- Cultivating the heart. This catechism is a simple a tool for parents to teach essential Christian doctrine to their children. Many of these questions have been around for a very long time. I have chosen the best, added a few,

More information

UNDERSTANDING SALVATION Part 2 Titus 3:3-7 By Andy Manning July 31, 2017

UNDERSTANDING SALVATION Part 2 Titus 3:3-7 By Andy Manning July 31, 2017 UNDERSTANDING SALVATION Part 2 Titus 3:3-7 By Andy Manning July 31, 2017 The title of this sermon is Understanding Salvation. This is a two part sermon that we began last week. Last week we learned that

More information

Sermon : The Blame Game Page 1

Sermon : The Blame Game Page 1 Sermon : The Blame Game Page 1 The Blame Game Text : James 1; 12-18 ; Genesis 3; 1-8 S#1. A. We ve all sinned. What is the greatest sin you ever committed? S#2. 1. Why did you do it? 2. Did you do it as

More information

A Hunger for Holiness - How

A Hunger for Holiness - How REVIEW: We are in week six of our series on holiness. Over the last five weeks we have looked at our problem with holiness - when push comes to shove, are we really known for obeying all of God s Word;

More information

1 - Holiness without it I will not see God

1 - Holiness without it I will not see God 1 - Holiness without it I will not see God We have been engaged with the Lord in His Word for a couple of months now seeking to fully understand the message of Isaiah 6:1-8 when he saw the Lord in all

More information

SALVATION ROOTING SERIES REVISION 4.0. DEFN: Salvation - Saved, rescued, or delivered from one s present dangerous condition and brought to safety.

SALVATION ROOTING SERIES REVISION 4.0. DEFN: Salvation - Saved, rescued, or delivered from one s present dangerous condition and brought to safety. SALVATION ROOTING SERIES REVISION 4.0 DEFN: Salvation - Saved, rescued, or delivered from one s present dangerous condition and brought to safety. A savior is one who saves, rescues, or delivers and brings

More information

It Is Finished Text : John 19: 28-38

It Is Finished Text : John 19: 28-38 Sermon : It Is Finished Page 1 I TRODUCTIO : It Is Finished Text : John 19: 28-38 A. Illustrations to emphasize man s tendency to forget. 1. What is your response when you hear the date Aug. 24, 1814?

More information

BELIEVE SERIES Lesson Two

BELIEVE SERIES Lesson Two The Three-in-One God Key Verses: 2 Corinthians 13:14; Romans 1:20 Key Idea: I believe in one God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit Key Question: Who is God and how can we know Him? BELIEVE SERIES Lesson Two

More information

VICTORIOUS FAITH SESSION 4. The Point. The Passage. The Bible Meets Life. The Setting. My faith in God makes me victorious.

VICTORIOUS FAITH SESSION 4. The Point. The Passage. The Bible Meets Life. The Setting. My faith in God makes me victorious. SESSION 4 VICTORIOUS FAITH The Point My faith in God makes me victorious. The Passage Hebrews 11:1-6 The Bible Meets Life It s hard to know what to believe anymore. The Internet is filled with news on

More information

Christianity 101: 20 Basic Christian Beliefs Chapter 15 What Are Sanctification and Perseverance?

Christianity 101: 20 Basic Christian Beliefs Chapter 15 What Are Sanctification and Perseverance? Christianity 101: 20 Basic Christian Beliefs Chapter 15 What Are Sanctification and Perseverance? I. Sanctification: The Gospel and the appropriate response of repentance and faith are not only what saves

More information

Sermon : Sin And Its Consequences Page 1

Sermon : Sin And Its Consequences Page 1 Sermon : Sin And Its Consequences Page 1 Sin and Its Consequences Text : Matthew 5: 21-30 S#1. A. Think back to the people you ve known who stand out in your memory. S#2. 1. Who s the best person you ve

More information

WARFARE PRAYING. Victor Matthews

WARFARE PRAYING. Victor Matthews WARFARE PRAYING Victor Matthews TABLE OF CONTENTS SESSION ONE: The Encouragement in Warfare Praying: The Plan of God... 2 Addendum: Satan and the Successful Christian Life SESSION TWO: An Example of Warfare

More information

For if anyone considers himself to be something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.

For if anyone considers himself to be something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Explore the Bible Lesson Preview October 14, 2018 True Compassion Background: Galatians 6:1-18 Lesson: Galatians 6:1-10, 14-15 Motivation: One of the key issues for Christians is learning to live the exchanged

More information

THE GREATEST COMMANDMENT Sylvester Onyemalechi

THE GREATEST COMMANDMENT Sylvester Onyemalechi THE GREATEST COMMANDMENT Sylvester Onyemalechi Mark 12:28-31 28 One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, "Of all the

More information

Into Thy Word Bible Study in Hebrews

Into Thy Word Bible Study in Hebrews Into Thy Word Bible Study in Hebrews Into Thy Word Ministries www.intothyword.org Hebrews 6:13-20: We have Hope in God! General idea: Our God is a God of promises Who keeps His Word! He gave a promise

More information

Doctrinal Statement of the Baptist Missionary Association of Missouri

Doctrinal Statement of the Baptist Missionary Association of Missouri Doctrinal Statement of the Baptist Missionary Association of Missouri I. GOD There is one living and true God, the Creator of the universe (Ex. 15, Is. 45:11, Jer. 27.5). He is revealed in the unity of

More information

Message 6. The Need of the Hungry Life s Feeding

Message 6. The Need of the Hungry Life s Feeding Scriptural Reading: John 6:1-71 Message 6 The Need of the Hungry Life s Feeding I. The hungry world and the feeding Christ John 6:1-15 A. A contrast to the previous case in chapter 5 1. In the holy city

More information

OUR STATEMENT OF FAITH

OUR STATEMENT OF FAITH OUR STATEMENT OF FAITH 1) We Stand on the Preeminence of Christ We believe that Jesus is the Eternal Son of God and both the Savior and Lord of all who believe and trust Him (Acts 2:36) The facts of Jesus

More information

THE TRUTH ABOUT SIN A BIBLICAL STUDY ON SIN AND SALVATION

THE TRUTH ABOUT SIN A BIBLICAL STUDY ON SIN AND SALVATION SESSION 3 SIN AND SANCTIFICATION I. REVIEW OF FOUNDATIONAL TRUTHS 1. Sin is destructive and brings death to every area of our life [Rom. 6:23]. 2. Sin is to break God s holy and righteous standards in

More information

A Centennial Statement

A Centennial Statement A Centennial Statement Background of A Centennial Statement When the 1981 General Conference directed that a statement of the beliefs and practices of The Brethren Church be developed, a group of volunteers

More information

Bible overview: basics and introduction Part 1 of 3

Bible overview: basics and introduction Part 1 of 3 Bible overview: basics and introduction Part 1 of 3 The goal of the series is to be able to gain the basics of handling the bible for yourself. What do you want to know about the Bible? 2 JUNE 18 BIBLE

More information

Message Three Abel An Overcoming Martyr for God s Purpose

Message Three Abel An Overcoming Martyr for God s Purpose Message Three Abel An Overcoming Martyr for God s Purpose Scripture reading: Gen. 4:1-15; Heb. 11:4. I. Abel was a tender, a feeder, of sheep so that he might have an offering to present to God Gen. 4:2,

More information

SPIRITUAL WARFARE PRAYER written by Victor M. Matthews

SPIRITUAL WARFARE PRAYER written by Victor M. Matthews SPIRITUAL WARFARE PRAYER written by Victor M. Matthews Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the victor s crown, the life God has promised to

More information

DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS.'

DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS.' Assurance 596 How to Know You Are A Child of God A. My newspaper headline said, Police Beware of Scams. 1. Usually international news gets the front page... or another supposed scandal in politics 2. But

More information

DOCTRINAL STATEMENT. The Scriptures. God Is Triune. God The Father

DOCTRINAL STATEMENT. The Scriptures. God Is Triune. God The Father DOCTRINAL STATEMENT We consider the Statement of Faith to be an authentic and reliable exposition of what Scripture leads us to believe and do. Hence, we seek to be instructed and led by the Statement

More information

THE VICTORY OF FAITH OR FAITH IS THE VICTORY OR THE VICTORIOUS LIFE 1Jno.5:4,5 Ed Dye

THE VICTORY OF FAITH OR FAITH IS THE VICTORY OR THE VICTORIOUS LIFE 1Jno.5:4,5 Ed Dye I. INTRODUCTION THE VICTORY OF FAITH OR FAITH IS THE VICTORY OR THE VICTORIOUS LIFE 1Jno.5:4,5 Ed Dye 1. Ch.4 closed with, and Ch.5 opened with, a statement of the two-foldness of love, declaring that

More information

Three Positions on the Indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Over-Reactionary Response?

Three Positions on the Indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Over-Reactionary Response? **Adapted from a chart created by Dave Brewer Three Positions on the Indwelling of the Holy Spirit Only through the Word This position believes that it is through the Word of God that the Holy Spirit figuratively

More information

JUSTIFIED. Having Been. Romans 5:1 2 (NKJV) 1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we

JUSTIFIED. Having Been. Romans 5:1 2 (NKJV) 1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we Having Been JUSTIFIED Romans 5:1 2 (NKJV) 1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have access by faith into this grace

More information

Romans 5A. Salvation from the penalty of sin is not gained by our efforts

Romans 5A. Salvation from the penalty of sin is not gained by our efforts Romans 5A Salvation from the penalty of sin is not gained by our efforts o It is not by works o We are granted righteousness, we are credited as righteous which is our salvation - through a faith in Jesus

More information

Slide 1. Slide 2. Slide 4. Slide 5 SOME BELIEVE IT IS IN CALVINISM THEN JAMES DID NOT PREACH THE GOSPEL! THEN PAUL DID NOT PREACH THE GOSPEL!

Slide 1. Slide 2. Slide 4. Slide 5 SOME BELIEVE IT IS IN CALVINISM THEN JAMES DID NOT PREACH THE GOSPEL! THEN PAUL DID NOT PREACH THE GOSPEL! 1 ( part 4) What Is The Grace of God? Where Is Grace Found? 2 SOME BELIEVE IT IS IN CALVINISM All verses are from NKJV unless noted. 3 C. H. SPURGEON I have my own opinion that there is no such thing as

More information