John, Jesus’ disciple, heard all that Jesus taught and saw how he lived. He witnessed firsthand God’s glory. As we study 1 John, we will explore John’s words and discover what it means to live in the light. Throughout John’s words we will see three main concepts. Theology matters: knowing Jesus begins with believing what God says. Devotion matters: experiencing Jesus allows us to enjoy eternal life now and forever. Obedience matters: following Jesus is our response to God’s love. When we anchor ourselves in what matters- knowing, experiencing, following Jesus, we will experience God’s love more fully. The fuller our experience of God’s love, the deeper our love for one another. Our identity is rooted and secured in the love of Christ.
The One Who Jesus Loves
June 11, 2023 • Amanda Beggs • John 15:26–27, 1 John 1:1–4, John 17:3, 1 John 1:3, 1 John 1:4
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Live in the Light
Loosening Your Grip
August 20, 2023 • Scott Stevens • 1 John 5:20–21, 1 John 2:15–16, Romans 1:18, Ezekiel 1
When we turn away from the reliance of Jesus Christ and look to something else for a blessing or fulfillment, we are chasing after an idol. In John's letter, he tells us if we aren't experiencing God's love and light there is something competing in our hearts for God. When an idol rules our hearts, we can become prideful, and our hearts harden. To honor God, we must loosen our grip of any idols and call upon the Holy Spirit, practice generosity in all things, and humble ourselves.
Blessings Not Burdens
August 13, 2023 • John • Psalm 119:105, 1 John 4:7–8, 1 John 2:6, 1 John 5:1–5, Matthew 23:1–4
Sometimes we like to push against boundaries. We do this in small ways but also larger ways with God’s commandments. We can say something is true but live our lives as if it’s not true. To abide in God’s light and love is to have a close enough relationship with Him to understand His heart and to not see His list of commands as burdensome. Out of His love for us, God gives us boundaries to follow so our lives can flourish and be a blessing to others. The commandments are not a burden, but a blessing put in place for our good.
Freedom From Fear
August 6, 2023 • John 15:4–11, 1 John 4:11–18
At the root of all fears is mistaken or forgotten identity. Where are we abiding? Where we abide influences who we think we are. When we know who we are in Christ, all fear vanishes. We are beloved children of God and His perfect love casts out fear.