SERIES: The Letters of John
TEXT: 1 John 2:18-3:10
MESSAGE: “When the World Comes Knocking on the Door of the Church”
Q: What does it mean to be a child of God in a world that is trying to deceive us? It means to…
1. Know the truth (v 2:18-2:23)
“Antichrist” > Greek antichristo (against the Messiah)
4 And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. 5 For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray. — Matthew 24:4-5
“They do not directly oppose Jesus Christ. They redefine him. They re-imagine Him. ‘He is good,’ they say, ‘but He is not God.’ ‘He may be a son of god like we can be sons and daughters of God,’ they teach, ‘but He is not the Son of God.’ ‘He may have died on the cross as a martyr,’ they affirm, ‘but He did not die as a Savior.’ The spirit of antichrist always diminishes the person and work of Christ. It chips away at His deity and rejects His work of atonement. The antichrist spirit thinks and then teaches incorrectly who Jesus Christ is and what Jesus Christ has done.” — Daniel Akin
14 Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, 15 and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. 16 For surely it is not angels that he helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. 17 Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. 18 For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. — Hebrews 2:14-18
If Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection wasn’t enough, what hope do we possibly have?
Confidence in the truth comes from abiding in Christ
2. Abide in the truth (v. 2:24-3:1)
“Abide” -> meno (to continue to be present, to not depart)
1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, 3 though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. — Psalm 46:1-3
“You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in you.” — St. Augustine
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. — Psalm 16:11
The deceptions that the church are facing are aimed at saying that God isn’t enough
Children of God who abide in their Father act like Him and practice the truth
3. Practice the truth (v 3:2-3:10)
I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life. — 1 John 5:13
TAKEAWAYS: What are the ways we can apply this text in our lives?
- Do you have complete assurance in your salvation?
- Do you know the truth well enough that you can spot lies for what they are?
13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, 15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. — 1 Peter 3:13-16
- Are you currently experiencing the joy of God’s presence that comes from abiding and resting in Him?