With all the division and controversy in the world, how do we think about truth? John makes it clear that spiritual truth doesn’t adjust to fit our preferences or desires. While we shouldn’t be overconfident in ourselves, the truth about God is secure and stable. This means it shouldn’t rattle us when people reject Jesus, and we can hold onto the truth about Jesus without shame. Most of all, John makes the case that the hard truth is where we can put all our hope and security.
Application Questions:
1. Are you ever rattled in your faith when you see people reject Jesus for something they think is “better”? How do John’s reminders about the time we live in and the way we know truth help?
2. What about Jesus’ identity is so important that John sees it as a test for whether or not we have a relationship with God?
3. What would it look like for you to let the truth about Jesus “abide in you”?
09. Loving the Truth
"Do we really need to be so dogmatic?"
June 27, 2021 • Brian Colmery
23. Knowing the True God
October 10, 2021 • Matt Kleinhans • 1 John 5:18–21
John concludes the letter of 1st John by reminding us of the truths that assure our hearts: Jesus protects us from the evil one, we are from God, and we know Him who is true. These truths give us confidence to follow Christ in the midst of a fallen world, keeping ourselves from idols by abiding in Jesus. Application Questions 1. Why is it so important that in Christ we have a new nature? 2. How does it change your life to know that God protects you in the midst of a fallen world? 3. What are practical ways you can build your life on the God who is Truth? 4. How have you become complacent in your walk with God? What steps can you take to revitalize your relationship with Him?
22. Praying for Others
October 3, 2021 • Scott Mehl • 1 John 5:13–17
When we talk to God we can know that he hears us and that he will answer us. And when we ask for his kingdom to come and transform our hearts, we can know that he will do it. Therefore, when we pray for one another we can do so expecting God to produce the redemption we desire. Prayer is the Christian's superpower. Application Questions: 1. In what way might God be drawing you deeper into your relationship with him through prayer? 2. How should the confidence you can have shape your prayers? 3. How can you more intentionally use the privilege of your relationship and communication with God to bless your brothers and sisters in Christ? 4. Where do you see sin in the lives of your brothers and sisters that you can take confidently to God in prayer?
21. Confident Prayer
September 26, 2021 • Demetrius Nathan • 1 John 5:13–15
Application Questions: 1. What is prayer, and why is it an essential spiritual discipline? 2. If God has answered your greatest need (you being separated from Him), what are some of the reasons that keep you from bringing your other concerns and needs to Him? 3. What does it mean to ask anything according to His will (1 John 5:14)?