Sunday, April 22nd, 2018
We are God’s Children
The Roman world of the first century was a time of testing and comparison between the Eastern and Western religions. The gods of the Greek and Roman pantheons were in ill repute. The religions that were deemed more mysterious were very popular because of their emphasis on personal relationship with the deity and secret knowledge. This is what Gnosticism taught. The more secular Greek philosophy was popular and was merging with other worldviews. Into this world of eclectic religion came the exclusiveness of the Christian faith (Jesus is the only way to God, cf. John 14:6). 1 John was written to help correct these 2nd generation of believers and put this bad teaching to rest, encourage them in their identity in Christ, and propel the church into the next century on solid ground.
As you read and study together, make sure to work hard at hearing from everyone that has gathered together. Pray for one another and be accountable to applying the word of God to your lives.
General Questions:
- In this section, 2:28-4:6, John describes what it means to be a child of God. In 3:11, he describes what the conduct of a child of God should be. How do verses 16-18 help define this conduct?
- How can you define your love towards someone with sacrificial action this week?
- 1 John 3:13 says for us not to be surprised if we are hated by the world. Is this something to strive for?
For Further Discussion:
- What does John mean, “he cannot go on sinning” in 3:9?
- How does the story of Cain and Abel fit into our Christian life today?