A STUDY OF THE FIRST ESPISTLE OF THE APOSTLE JOHN

A STUDY OF THE FIRST ESPISTLE OF THE APOSTLE JOHN

Introduction:

The Author: The Epistles of John were written by the Apostle John. There are three epistles in this series. John also wrote the Gospel of John and the book of Revelation. These three epistles (letters) complement each other and give us a full picture of the Christian life.

The Gospel of John                          Christ died for us

The Epistles of John                         Christ lives in us

The Revelation of John                    Christ comes for us

Emphasis on Salvation                      The Word made flesh

Emphasis on Sanctification              The Word made real in us    

Emphasis on Glorification                The Word conquering

Aim: John stated five purposes for the writing of his first epistle:

A. That we might have fellowship, 1:3.

“Fellowship” is the key theme of the first two chapters (see 1:3, 6–7). Fellowship has to do with our communion with Christ, not our union with Christ, which is sonship. Our daily fellowship changes; our sonship remains the same.

B. That we might have joy, 1:4.

The word “joy” is used only here, but the blessing of joy is seen throughout the entire letter. Joy is the result of a close fellowship with Christ.

C. That we might not sin, 2:1–2.

The penalty of sin is taken care of when the sinner trusts Christ, but the power of sin over the daily life is another matter. First John explains how we may have victory over sin and how to get forgiveness when we do sin.

D. That we might overcome error, 2:26.

John was facing the false teaching of his day just as we face false teachers today, 2 Peter 2. The false teachers in John’s day were claiming…

1.  that matter was evil, therefore Christ did not come in the flesh;

2. that Christ only appeared to be a real man;

3. that knowledge of truth is more important than living the truth; and

4. that only a “spiritual few” could understand spiritual truths.

As you read 1 John, you will see that John emphasizes:

(1) that matter is not evil, but man’s nature is sinful;

(2) that Jesus Christ had a real body and experienced a real death;

(3) that it is not enough “to say” what we believe, we must practice it; and

(4) All Christians have an unction (anointing) from God and can know His truth.

E. That we might have assurance, 5:13.

a. In his Gospel, John tells us how to be saved (John 20:31).

b. But in this epistle, he tells us how to be sure we are saved.

F. The letter is a series of “tests” that Christians may use to examine…

a. Their fellowship (chaps. 1–2).

b. Their sonship (chaps. 3–5).

G. Note that the emphasis in chapters 3–5 is on being born of God (3:9; 4:7; 5:1, 4, 18).

WHEN HE SHALL APPEAR--1st JOHN 2:28

WHEN HE SHALL APPEAR

1st  JOHN 2:28

Introduction:

There are many glorious promises associated with God’s great promise that Christ Himself shall appear in person. When that happens there are several things that will happen that involves God’s children.

There will be some major changes after the Coming of the Lord, but our focus today is on what happens WHEN He comes for the believer.

I. WHEN JESUS FIRST APPEARED…

A. He appeared to put away sin, Hebrews 9:26, “For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.”

1. God has prepare a kingdom for us from the foundation of the world, Matthew 25:34, “Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:”

2. The Lord Jesus has put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself on the Cross, Hebrews 9:12, “Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.”

B. He appeared to redeem a people unto Himself, Luke 1:68-69, “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people, 69 And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David;”

1. He is the Horn (power) of our salvation, 1 Samuel 2:10, “The adversaries of the LORD shall be broken to pieces; out of heaven shall he thunder upon them: the LORD shall judge the ends of the earth; and he shall give strength unto his king, and exalt the horn of his anointed.”

2. We have been delivered out of the hand of the enemy to serve Him, Luke 1:74, “That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear,”

II. WHEN JESUS APPEARS THE SECOND TIME…

A. Paul says, He shall appear without sin unto salvation, Hebrews 9:28, “So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.”

1. His first appearance He was the Lamb of God that bore upon himself the sins of the world, Leviticus 10:17, “Wherefore have ye not eaten the sin offering in the holy place, seeing it is most holy, and God hath given it you to bear the iniquity of the congregation, to make atonement for them before the LORD?”

2. His second appearance will be to the salvation of all those that look for Him, John 14:3, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”

B. Paul says again, You also shall appear with Him in Glory, Colossians 3:4, “When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.”

1. He is our life now and in heaven, John 11:25, “Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:”

2. He is our Future.

a. We are to serve Him faithful until He comes, 1 Timothy 6:14, “That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:”

b. There is a great reward for those that love His appearance, 2 Timothy 4:8, Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

1) A crown of glory, 1 Peter 5:4, And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.”

2) We shall be like Him, 1 John 3:2, “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.”

c. We will behold His face, Psalm 17:15, “As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.”

CONCLUSION

There is a sobering warning in our text relating to the soon Second Coming of the Lord. We should live so as not to be ashamed at His Coming.

1. Those who believe on Him will not be ashamed, Romans 9:33, “As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.”

2. We who believe should continually abide in Him hour after hour.

a. Because our sins are forgiven, 1 John 2:12, “I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name’s sake.”

b. Therefore we purify ourselves, 1 John 3:3, “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.”

WE LOVE HIM BECAUSE HE FIRST LOVE US--1st. JOHN 4:19

WE LOVE HIM BECAUSE HE FIRST LOVE US

1st JOHN 4:19

Introduction:

In 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 the Apostle Paul sets forth the excellency of love, as the word "charity" there is rendered in the King James version. Charity better captures the biblical idea of love, for charity is love in action for the glory of God not a mere warm mushy feeling as we use the word today.

God’s love for us come from within Himself and not from anything we might do or have done in the past.

I. GOD’S LOVE FOR US IS THE PROPER GROUND OF LOVE

A. He love us first, 1 John 4:10, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.”

1. God loved the world, John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

2. God’s love was not set upon you for who or what you were, Deuteronomy 7:7, “The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people:”

3. God has loved us because He is rich in mercy, Ephesians 2:4-5, “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)”

B. Our state before God’s love appeared, Titus 3:3-4, “For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. 4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,”

1. We were deceived, Obadiah 3, “The pride of thine heart hath deceived thee, thou that dwellest in the clefts of the rock, whose habitation is high; that saith in his heart, Who shall bring me down to the ground?”

2. We lived in malice (spite, grudge, hatred) and envy, Galatians 5:19-21, “Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.”

3. We were dead in sins, Ephesians 2:5, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)”

II. GOD HAS CHOSEN TO LOVE US

A. You have not chosen me, John 15:16, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.”

1. He chose us when we were sinners, Romans 5:6-8, “For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

2. That He might show the exceeding riches of His grace, Ephesians 2:7, “That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.”

3. God made salvation a gift, Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

a. Man cannot boast of himself, 1 Corinthians 1:29-31, “That no flesh should glory in his presence. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: 31 That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.”

b. He has saved us for His own purpose, 2 Timothy 1:9, “Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,”

III. GOD HAS COMMANDED US TO LOVE OTHERS

A. If you love only those that love you, Matthew 5:46-47, “For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?”

B. There is not reward for loving those that love you, Luke 6:36, “Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.”

C. Love those who do not love you, Matthew 5:44, “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;”

1. The Pharisees implied that their hatred was God’s means of judging their enemies, Psalm 139:21-22, “Do not I hate them, O LORD, that hate thee? and am not I grieved with those that rise up against thee? 22 I hate them with perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies.”

2. God commands us to help our enemies, Exodus 23:4-5, “If thou meet thine enemy’s ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again. 5 If thou see the ass of him that hateth thee lying under his burden, and wouldest forbear to help him, thou shalt surely help with him.”

3. Our love for the lost demonstrates that we are God’s sons, Matthew 5:16, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

D. When Job prayed for those who had spitefully used him, God turned his captivity, Job 42:10,“And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before.”

CONCLUSION

It is a most difficult thing to love someone who has offended us or who has shown contempt for us. Just imagine how the Lord feels every time a sinner rejects His Word. Yet the Lord with great patience continues to offer salvation to that individual in Jesus Christ.

He love us when we were sinners and someone came to us with the truth even when we didn’t want to hear it. Can we do anything less?

THE STORY OF LOVE--1st. JOHN 4:7-21

THE STORY OF LOVE

1st. JOHN 4:7-21

1 John 4:10, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

Introduction:

The story of Love began in eternity passed with God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ, John 17:24b, “for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.” That love is seen throughout the Old Testament beginning with God’s dealings with Adam and continuing with the nation of Israel and on into the New Testament with the death of Jesus Christ.

The Story of Love is the story of the redemption of man and how God sent His only begotten Son to die on the Cross of Calvary for the sins of mankind. That story has not ended yet. God, in the person of the Holy Spirit, continues to work through His Word in the hearts of men and women to bring them to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Let us consider what the Scriptures say about that story of love.

I. “WHOM HAVING NOT SEEN, YE LOVE.”

1 Peter 1:8, “Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:”

A. “Believing,” John 20:29, “Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.”

1. Thomas had seen the Lord and believed.

2. We have not seen the Lord, but we have heard and have trusted Him, Romans 10:17, “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 15:13, “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. “

B. If you know Him, you love Him, John 8:42, “Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me.”

C. You keep His commandments because you love Him, John 14:21, “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.”

II. WHAT MANNER OF LOVE IS THIS?

1 John 3:1, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.”

A. It is the love of our heavenly Father that has been bestowed upon us.

1. By faith in Jesus Christ, John 1:12, “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:”

2. We are called “the sons of God,” Romans 9:25, “As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved.”

B. The Father has caused us to know the love of Christ; Ephesians 3:18-19, “May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; 19And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.”

III. “WE LOVE HIM, BECAUSE HE FIRST LOVED US.”

A. Not that we loved God, 1 John 4:19, “We love him, because he first loved us.”

B. But because the LORD loved us, v. 10, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins; Deuteronomy 7:7-8a, “The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people: 8 But because the LORD loved you…”

1. You are no different than other sinners.

2. He just loved you as a sinner, Romans 5:8, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

3. Because of His love He is rich in mercy, Ephesians 2:4, “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ,”

C. Because He loved us, He sent his Son to be the propitiation (the means of appeasing) for our sins, 1 John 2:2, “And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.”

CONCLUSION

The love of God for the sinner moved Him to send Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son, to die as the propitiation for our sins.

Now we stand in the love of God as His sons by faith in Jesus Christ. If you do not know Christ as your Saviour, you do not know the love of God the Father. Since Jesus is “the way” to heaven you will never see God. John 14:6 says, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

THE MARKS OF THE RIGHTEOUS--1st JOHN 2:18-29

THE MARKS OF THE RIGHTEOUS

1st John 2:18-29

Introduction:

What are we looking for in the believer? What marks him as a strong, determined and faithful Christian is a society that has disdain for him? God has given us some marks to look for in the faithful believer. They are not hard to find because they stand out so that everyone can see them.

I. A BORN-AGAIN BELIEVER IN CHRIST.

A. Jesus said, “Ye must be born again.” John 3:3, 5-6 “Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 5Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.”

B. Works don’t impress the Lord, Titus 3:5, “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;”

II. HE KNOWS THE TRUTH.

A. The truth makes us free, John 8:32, “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

1. The preaching of the truth, 1 Corinthians 1:18, “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.”

a. It is foolishness to the fool (“them that parish”).

b. It is life to the wise (“but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.”).

2. The Believing of the Truth, 2 Thessalonians 2:13, “But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:”

B. There is no lie in the truth and the believer knows it, 1 John 2:21, “I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.

1. God cannot lie, Titus 1:2, “In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;”

2. The believer trusts the Lord, that is, he has faith, Romans 10:17, “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”

3. He has believed the report, Romans 10:16, “But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?”

III. HE THAT DOES RIGHTEOUSNESS.

A. The “eyes” have it, 1 John 2:15-16, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

1. The average professing Christian today cannot be distinguished from the world.

2. Separation is a foreign word to him, 2 Corinthians 16:16-18, “And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.”

IV. HE THAT ABIDES.

A. He stays when others leave, 1 John 2:19, “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.”

1. Because he is a born-again believer, 1 John 2:29, “If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.”

2. He is not seduced by the world, 1 John 2:26-27, “These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you. 27But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.”

B. He is constant and firm is his service, 2 Thessalonians 3:3, “But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.”

C. He is rooted and established in Christ, Colossians 2:6-7, “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: 7Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.”

CONCLUSION

It is not difficult to see the mark of a faith Christian. We have mentioned some here, but there are more yet. I trust that these marks are seen in your life as a professed believer in Jesus Christ.

FELLOWHELPERS TO THE TRUTH--3rd JOHN

3rd JOHN  

FELLOWHELPERS TO THE TRUTH

3rd John 1-14

Memory Verse: 3rd John 11

Introduction:

This little epistle was written to a faithful member of a Church. We do not know where this Church was located. There are at least four men in the New Testament. by the name of Gaius. This Gaius cannot positively be identified with any of the others. His name means, "I am glad."

This epistle reveals the responsibility of the individual in the Church to so walk in the truth that they "might be fellowhelpers, to the truth." 3rd John 8. Error in the church is the most dangerous kind of error.

I. GAIUSA MAN WALKING IN THE TRUTH. vs. 1-8

A. The Apostle's Greetings. vs. 1-4

1. The Apostle's love. v. 1. His love was rooted in truth and on account of the truth. It does not relate to the sentimental love today which is so often contrary to the truth.

2. The Apostle's wish. v. 2

a. His wish or prayer was that Gaius' health might prosper.

b. He desired that his physical health might equal his spiritual health. Many today are concerned about their physical health, but pay little attention to their spiritual condition. II Corinthians 4:16, “For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.”

c. The same principles that make us healthy can be applied to our spiritual health.

(1) Proper diet of the Word of God. I Timothy 4:6, “If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.”

(2) Proper exercise. I Timothy 4:7, “But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.”

(3) Proper cleanliness. II Cor. 7:1, “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.”

(4) Avoid the pollution of the world. II Pet. 1:4, “Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” James 1:27, “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.”

3. The Apostle's rejoicing. vs. 3-4

a. He rejoiced because of inward truth. v. 3a. Psalm 1:1-3, “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”

b. He rejoiced because of outward walk in the truth. v. 3b. I Thessalonians 2:13, “For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.”

c. His greatest joy. v. 4

d. Remember the source of all truth.

(1) Jesus is the truth. John 14:6, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

(2) God's Word is the truth. John 17:17, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.”

(3) The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth. I John 5:6, “This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.”

(4) The church is the pillar and ground of the truth. I Timothy 3:15, “But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.”

B. Demonstration Of Walking In Truth And Love. vs. 5-8

1. The reward of hospitality. v. 5. Faithful service will, always bring reward. Matt. 26:10, “When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me.” Rev. 14:13, “And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.”

2. Strangers here are brethren not previously known. Heb. 13:2, “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”

3. This does not mean that we are to take just anyone in our home. In the N.T. times Christians carried letters of recommendation. Rom. 16:1, “I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea.”

4. The report of hospitality. v. 6

a. The missionaries testified of Gaius' charity. v. 6a

b. Gaius urged to continue this work. v. 6b

5. The reasons for hospitality. v. 7-8

a. The missionaries were in this work for "His name's sake." v. 7a. The were witnesses to the lost.

b. The missionaries took nothing from the Gentiles. v. 7b. The did not ask the unsaved to finance the work they were doing.

c. By hospitality Gaius became a fellowhelper to the truth. v. 8. Gal. 6:6- 10, “Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” I Cor. 9:7-11, “Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock? Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same also? For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen? Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope. If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?”

II. DIOTREPHESA MAN WHO WALKED AS A TROUBLEMAKER. vs. 9-11

Diotrephes was a "church boss," of that we are certain, though we know not what office he held, if any. A. T. Robertson wrote an article on Diotrephes the church boss, which was published in a Christian magazine. As a result 20 deacons, wrote to the editor canceling their subscriptions because of, the personal attack made on them. It is tragic today that missionaries are not received with hospitality in many churches. Too many churches have one or more Diotrephes' in them!!

A. An Example Of A Contrary Walk. vs. 9-10

1. He loved the preeminence which belongs to Christ alone. v. 9a. Col.1:18, “And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.”

a. Many churches are cursed by mens like Diotrephes.

b. We need men like John the Baptist. John 3:30, “He (Christ) must increase, but I must decrease.”

2. He refused or destroyed John's letter to the Church. v. 9b

3. He had spoken malicious words against John. v. 10a. John promised to deal with him when he arrived. Somebody has to stop such people. God's people should be careful and not believe lies.

4. He received not the brethren. v. 10b. These were the missionaries, traveling evangelists.

5. He had forbidden others to receive them. v. 10c.

6. He had cast those out of the Church who did receive them. v. 10d.

7. I have known men like Diotrephes, and the devil used them to ruin churches. Some churches and pastors just let them rule until they die. When they are put out of the church, some people with no spiritual discernment will follow them.

B. An Exhortation And Warning. v. 11

1. Diotrephes is not to be followed. v. 11a.

2. Good is of God, but evil is not. v. 1lb

III. DEMETRIUSA MAN WHO WALKED AS A TESTIMONY. v. 12-14

A. The Apostle's Commendation. v. 12

1. He had a good report of all men. v. 12a.

2. He was noted for his stand for the truth. v. 12b.

3. He was personally endorsed by John. v. 12c.

4. Such people are to be followed. Phil. 3:17, “Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.” I Cor. 11:1, “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” Heb. 10:24, “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.”

B. The Apostle's Explanation. v. 13-14

1. He explains why his letter is short. v. 13.

2. He explains his plans for a soon appearance. v. 14a.

3. He pronounces peace. v. 14b.

4. He exchanges greetings. v. 14c

—by E. L. Bynum

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. To whom was the epistle written ?

2. What was John's desire for him?

3. How did John know that Gaius was walking in the truth?

4. What gave John great joy?

5. Why had the missionaries gone forth?

6 . How was Gaius a fellowhelper to the truth?

7. What did Diotrephes love?

8. What had he done?

9. What did John say about Demetrius?

10. Quote the memory verse.

WALKING AND WATCHING IN THE TRUTH--2nd JOHN

2nd  JOHN
WALKING AND WATCHING IN THE TRUTH

Lesson: 2 John 1-13

Introduction:

This little book centers on "truth" which occurs five times. It provides us with a homily on truth, giving us its nature, test, fruit, character, and defense. It provides us with practical and doctrinal aspects of continuing in the truth.

There are three views about to whom this letter was written:

(1) It was written to one woman and her children.

(2) It was written to a church. Remember that a church is spoken of in the feminine gender, bride, etc.

(3) The solution may be that church was meeting in this woman's house, which was common in those days. Regardless, it contains a powerful message on truth, to churches and to individuals. In Satan's war against the truth he attacks the family. If he can destroy the home, he can destroy a church or nation.

I. PRACTICAL ASPECT: WALKING IN TRUTH AND LOVE. vs. 1-6

A. Knowing the Truth. vs. 1-3

1. "The elder" is the apostle John, and the title could well apply to both his age and office, v. 1a

2. "The elect lady and her children." v. 1b. This is the Christian mother and her children whom he addresses. She was one of the chosen ones. The same word that is translated "elect" is also translated "chosen."

a. He hath chosen us in Him, Ephesians 1:4, According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love.

b. “The elect's sakes,” 2 Timothy 2:10, Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

c. “Elect according to the foreknowledge of God,” 1 Peter 1:2, Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

3. Love should be in the truth, not apart from it. v. 1c. (This is the basis of fellowship). John 8:31-32, Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

4. We love, labor, and worship for the truth's sake. v. 2

a. Jesus Christ is the truth. John 14:6, Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

b. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth. John 14:16-17, And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

c. God's word is truth. John 17:17, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.”

5. A triad of blessings. v. 3a.

a. "Grace" that brings salvation. Titus 2:11, “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men.” Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

b. "Mercy" from which all our hope begins. Ephesians 2:4, But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us.

c. "Peace" which guards our hearts.

1) “Which passes all understanding,” Philippians 4:7, And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

2) “Peace with God,” Romans 5:1, Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

6. The source of these blessings. v. 3b

a. From the Father, 1 John 4:10, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.”

b. And from the Lord Jesus Christ.

7. The element of these blessings "in truth and love." v. 3c. We are to love the truth.

8. By linking the Father and the Son in this passage, he is affirming the deity of Christ, v. 3

a. Acknowledging the Son, 1 John 2:23, “Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: (but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also.”

b. Jesus is God, John 10:30-33, “I and my Father are one. Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him. Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me? The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.”

B. Walking In the Truth. vs. 4-6

1. Her children were walking in the truth. v. 4, “I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.”

a. This is the correct course of the Christian life and the one commanded, 1 John 2:7, 24, “Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning. 24- Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father.” See also 1 John 3:11, 23, 24; 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10.

b. His joy was that the children were walking in the truth. v. 4a; 3 John 4, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.”

c. The reason why they walked in the truth. v. 4b, “as we have received a commandment from the Father.”

1) His Word stands forever, Psalm 33:11, “The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.”

2) His commandments are not grievous, 1 John 5:3, “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.”

2. Continue the practice of Christian love. v. 5;

a. “He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother …” 1 John 2:8-9, “Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth. 9-He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now.”

b. “The fruit of the Spirit is love…” Galatians 5:22, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.”

c. The love of God comes by the Holy Spirit, Romans 5:5, “And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.”

3. Love cannot be separated from His commandments. v. 6.

a. Obedience prompts love, v. 5, “And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another.”

b. Love prompts obedience, v. 6, “And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it.”

1) “I write no new commandment unto you,” 1 John 2:7-8, “Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning. Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth.”

2) Speak the truth in love, Ephesians 4:15, “But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.”

II. DOCTRINAL ASPECT: WATCHING AGAINST ERROR. vs. 7-13

A. Protecting the Truth. vs. 7-9

1. Teachers of untruths. v. 7; I John 2:18, 22, 26; 4:1, 3

a. They deny Christ came in the flesh, 1 John 4:3, “And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.”

b. They are branded as deceivers and antichrists. “Anti” means both “instead of” and “against.” 1 John 2:26, “These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you.”

c. These deceivers went out of the church.

1) They were not of us, 1 John 2:19; “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.”

2) They spoke perverse things, Acts 20:30, “Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.”

d. Notice there were many of these deceivers. v. 7a. 2 Peter 2:2, “And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.”

2. The presence of such teachers calls for self-examination on the part of believer. v . 8a, “Look to yourselves.” Matthew 24:4-5, “And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. 5-For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.”

3. Failure to do so will cause loss of rewards. v. 8b. 2 Peter 1:10-11, “Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: 11-For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”

4. The doctrine of Christ is the acid test. v. 9; 1 John 2:21, 22, “But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. 21I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.”

Modernism denies the doctrine of Christ. They cast doubt on His person, His virgin birth, His sinless life, His atoning death, and His glorious resurrection.

B. Protecting the Home in the Truth. vs. 10-11

1. The test of fellowship and hospitality is doctrine. v. 10

a. Refuse them entrance to your home. Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, and all false teachers are not to be allowed in our homes, either in person or by radio, or Television.

b. Refuse to bid them God speed.

2. Charity toward false teachers is a sin against God. v. 11. When cults, liberals, and apostates deny the doctrine of Christ, and they all do, our duty is clear. 2 Corinthians 6:14-17:

a. Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers, v. 14, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?”

b. What part hath he that believeth with an infidel?” v. 15, “And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?”

c. For ye are the temple of the living God, v. 16, “And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.”

d. Touch not the unclean thing, vs. 17-18, “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.”

C. Protecting Friendship in the Truth. vs. 12-13

1. There were many things he did not write. v. 12a

2. He expected to make a personal appearance. v. 12b

3. He expected that to be a joyful occasion. v. 12c

4. Greeting from the children of an elect sister. v. 13

CONCLUSION:

1. Love in the truth. v. 1

2. For the sake of the truth. v. 2

3. Salutation in the truth. v. 3

4. Walking in the truth. vs. 4-6

5. The test of the truth. vs. 7-9

6. Defense of the truth. vs. 10-13

. . .Based on an outline by Pastor E. L. Bynum

SONSHIP AND FAITH--1st JOHN, LESSON 5

1st JOHN 
LESSON 5

SONSHIP AND FAITH

Lesson: 1st JOHN 5:1-21

I. SONSHIP PROVED BY THE CONDUCT WE EXHIBIT. vs. 1-5

A. As Begotten Ones We Love the Brethren. vs. 1-3

1. Believing faith essential to the new birth. v. 1a; Acts 16:31.

2. Loving God and loving the brethren. v. 1b; John 13:34, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”

3. Loving God and keeping his commandments are essential to loving the brethren. v. 2; John 15:17, “These things I command you, that ye love one another.”

a. This is not a distasteful burden, but a “delight,” Psalm 119:16, “I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.” Psalm 119:24, “Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellors.”

b. This shows your love for the Lord, Psalm 119:97, “O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day.”

4. Love for God makes keeping His commandments not grievous. v. 3; Psalm 19:7-11:

a. The law of the LORD, v. 7.

b. The testimony of the LORD, v. 7.

c. The statutes of the LORD, v. 8.

d. The fear of the LORD, v. 9.

e. The judgments of the LORD, v. 9.

f. More to be desired are they than gold, v. 10.

g. By them is thy servant warned, v. 11.

B. As Believing Ones We Live Victoriously. vs. 4-5

1. Those born of God overcome the world. v. 4a. "Overcometh" is in the present linear tense, showing that this is a continual battle.

2. This victory comes by faith. v. 4b. All the great heroes of Hebrews 11 gained the victory by faith. They simply believed God.

a. "Victory" comes from the Greek word "nike." The Greek goddess of victory was called Nike. I believe we have a well-known brand of athletic shoes named Nike.

b. "Overcometh" in vs. 4 & 5 comes from the Greek word "Nikano," which means, "to carry off the victory, come off victorious." It especially refers to Christians that hold fast their faith even unto death against the power of their foes, temptations, and persecutions.

c. Some variations of this word in the New Testament, which carry the idea of victory, are: Nicanor (Acts 6:5); Nicodemus (John 3:1); Nicolas (Acts 6:5); and Nicopolis (Titus 3:12).

3. Overcoming is dependent on a right belief in Christ. v. 5. John 16:33. “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

a. Our victory is in Him, 1 Corinthians 15:57, “But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

1) We are crucified with Him, Galatians 2:20, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

2) We are buried with Him, Romans 6:4, “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”

3) We are raised with Him, Romans 6:4, see above.

b. This is why we are victorious, Psalm 98:1, “O sing unto the LORD a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory.”

II. SONSHIP PROVED BY CREDENTIALS WE EXHIBIT. vs. 6-13

A. The Evidence of the Credentials. vs. 6-8

1. He came by water and blood. v. 6a

a. "Water" speaks of His baptism that inaugurated His ministry. Matthew 3:16-17, “And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”

b. "Blood" speaks of His sacrificial death. John 19:34, “But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water.” This speaks of blood and water in reverse order.

2. The Spirit bears record as the Spirit of truth. v. 6b. Romans 8:15-16, For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.

3. The Holy Trinity bears record in heaven. v. 7. This verse has largely been removed from the new versions, but we accept it just as it is written in the KJV. John 16:13-14, “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. 14He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.” 14:17, “Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” 15:26, “But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:”

4. For the 3 witnesses see v. 6 and above notes. v. 8

B. The Effect of the Credentials. vs. 9-13

Verses 9-13 furnish proof of a know-so, eternal salvation.

1. Men require a two or three-fold witness. v. 9a.

a. One witness is not acceptable, Deuteronomy 19:15, “One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established.”

b. Two or three witnesses can establish the truth, Matthew 18:16, “But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.”

c. God, the Father establishes Jesus’ testimony, John 8:16-18, “And yet if I judge, my judgment is true: for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent me. It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true. I am one that bear witness of myself, and the Father that sent me beareth witness of me.”

2. God has given a greater 3-fold witness v. 9b

a. The Father's witness to the Son at His baptism. See Matthew 3:17, “And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”

b. The witness of the Son of God who loved us and gave Himself for us. Galatians 2:20, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

c. The witness of the Spirit by His resurrection. Romans 1:4, “And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.”

3. The internal witness to the believer. v. 10a.

a. His Spirit witnesses to our spirit, Romans 8:16, “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:”

b. Because we are sons of God, He has given us His Spirit, Galatians 4:6, “And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.”

4. The one who rejects the witness makes God a liar. v. 10b

a. His word is not in us, 1 John 1:10, “If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.”

b. That person does not believe the record of God, John 5:38, “And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not.”

5. The intent of this witness is that we have eternal life. v. 11.

a. Those who deny this do not believe the record of John the Baptist, John 3:34, “And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not.”

b. The record is that life eternal is in HIS SON, v. 11; John 11:25, “Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:”

6. The difference the Son makes. v. 12; John 3:36, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.”

7. There must be confidence in the knowledge of eternal life as a present possession. v. 13.

a. The reason for the writings, John 20:31, “But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.”

b. We can KNOW that we have eternal life, 2 Corinthians 5:1, “For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.”

c. It is not guess work nor hope, but a know-so salvation, 2 Timothy 1:12, “For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.”

III. SONSHIP PROVED BY CONFIDENCE WE EXHIBIT. vs. 14-21

A. Confidence in Prayer. vs. 14-17

1. Praying in His will assures us of confidence in His answer. v. 14. There are conditions to getting our prayers answered.

a. We must ask according to His will. v. 14

b. Our family life (husband and wife) must be right. I Peter 3:7, “Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.”

c. Problems with other Christians must be settled. Matthew 5:23-24, “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.”

d. We must abide in Christ in love and obedience. John 15:7, “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.”

2. Confidence in the petitions being granted. v. 15 Philippians 4:19, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” I Thessalonians 5:17, “Pray without ceasing.”

a. Note the prayer life of Jesus, and the example it sets for us.

1) Early in the day “in a solitary place,” Mark 1:35, “And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.”

2) Continued to get the answer, Luke 6:12, “And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.”

3) Determined prayer, Hebrews 5:7, “Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared.”

3. The actions of others may limit our prayers. v. 16. The sin unto death is sin by a believer to the extent that God takes his life, but his soul is saved. It is a dangerous thing to play with sin, and the consequences can be serious.

a. These indulged in willful sin and suffered judgment.

1) Nadab and Abihu, Leviticus 10:1-7.

2) Ananias and Sapphira lied to God about their giving. Acts 5:1-11

b. God chastises those Christians that sin, and if they do not repent, He may choose to take their lives. 1 John 5:16

4. All unrighteousness is sin. v. 17

B. Confidence in Knowledge. vs. 18-21

1. "We know" that those born of God are eternally secure. v. 18

a. This verse does not contradict v. 16 and 17, nor does it contradict 1:8 and 2:1.

b. It should be understood in the light of 3:9. See notes on that verse.

c. We know that Satan cannot touch the child of God without God's permission. Job 1:12, “And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the LORD.” Luke 22:31-32, “And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.”

d. In temptation God will give us strength to overcome. I Corinthians 10:13, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” I John 2:13-14.

e. God has given us our armor, including the sword of the Spirit. Ephesians 6:17, “And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”

2. "We know" that we are of God. v. 19. We should stand in awe and wonder of such knowledge.

3. "We know" that He has come and has given us understanding. v. 20.

a. Jesus is the true God, v. 20, “And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ.”

b. The true light, John 1:9, “That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.”

c. The true bread, John 6:32, “Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven.”

d. The true vine, John 15:1, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.”

e. And the truth, John 14:6, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” Anything else is a cheap copy. He is the real thing.

4. We know we should keep ourselves from idols. v. 21.

a. An idol is anything that usurps God's place in one's life. Psalm 115:4-7, “Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands. 5They have mouths, but they speak not: eyes have they, but they see not: 6They have ears, but they hear not: noses have they, but they smell not: 7They have hands, but they handle not: feet have they, but they walk not: neither speak they through their throat.”

b. An idol worshipper is like his idol, Psalm 115:7, “They that make them are like unto them; so is every one that trusteth in them.”