Today is a day of remembrance in multiple ways. Our country gathers every year on this day to remember an event that took place in Philadelphia, determining the trajectory of our country. The church also gathers every week on this day to remember the event that took place in Jerusalem that changed the course of human history. Today we gather to remember that more significant historical moment and in our passage today John helps us to see why regularly looking back and remembering is such an important spiritual discipline for our souls.
Application Questions:
1. Do you tend to live in fear of false truths, or do you tend to live taking truth for granted, not being careful about what you're meditating on or taking in?
2. What are the practical ways that help you remember gospel truth throughout your week (other people, time with God, corporate worship, etc.)?
3. How does the fact that God is abiding in you change how you view your current challenges and struggles?
4. How can you relate more directly and intimately with God this week, remembering his personal presence?
10. Learning the Truth
"Today is a powerful day of remembrance, just as it is every week when we gather to remember."
July 4, 2021 • Scott Mehl
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)?