July 28, 2019

1 John 3:11-18

1. We began our time together on Sunday by remembering 1 John 3:10, which emphasizes there are only 2 types of people: children of God, and children of the devil. Why is it important for us to remember and make this distinction?

2. We then moved into our text for the week, and read in verse 11 “that we should love one another.” Matt pointed out this command is not new with John and is found throughout the New Testament. What are some passages that you can reference that demonstrate the priority of love in the life of the Christian? (hint: Matt named a bunch!)

3. While looking at verse 11, Pastor Matt told us “our being in Christ and belonging to Christ informs our living for Christ.” Wow! Discuss this statement with one another and its implications.

4. We then transitioned from the theme of Love to the theme of hatred in verses 12-13, where Pastor Matt told us that evil hates, loathes, and despises righteousness. Why does the world, why do children of the devil, loathe righteousness? 

5. We then in read verse 13 that due to this hatred of righteousness, the world will hate the children of God, those who practice righteouenss. Why are we as Christians surprised at the world hating us? What should our response be to this hatred/ persecution/ etc.?

6. Moving from hatred in verses 12-13, to our spiritual state before God in verses 14-15, Pastor Matt gave us an English lesson on the word “because.” We were reminded that we are made spiritually alive not BECAUSE of our love for the brethren, but rather our being made spiritually alive us to love our brothers and sisters in Christ. Why is this good news for us?

7. As we concluded our time together in verses 16-18, we considered the work of Jesus Christ, who laid down his life for His people and had compassion upon us. And because of this love and compassion, we are to do the same. What are areas of service to your brothers and sisters in Christ that you could and will grow in? What brother or sister in Christ do you know who could use a helping hand and should not be ignored? 

8. Lastly, please pray for the Basque students with whom the Lord blessed us this past month and their spiritual well-being as they head back to their home country. And please pray for our Junior High students, Pastor Jeff, and the volunteers who are at summer camp this week. Pray for blessings, energy, sanctification, salvation, and that all who would become more like Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord through this week!