Christ Our Advocate
2:1 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. 2 He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. 3 And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: 6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.
The New Commandment
7 Beloved, I am writing you no new commandment, but an old commandment that you had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word that you have heard. 8 At the same time, it is a new commandment that I am writing to you, which is true in him and in you, because the darkness is passing away and the true light is already shining. 9 Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness. 10 Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling. 11 But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.
12 I am writing to you, little children,
because your sins are forgiven for his name’s sake.
13 I am writing to you, fathers,
because you know him who is from the beginning.
I am writing to you, young men,
because you have overcome the evil one.
I write to you, children,
because you know the Father.
14 I write to you, fathers,
because you know him who is from the beginning.
I write to you, young men,
because you are strong,
and the word of God abides in you,
and you have overcome the evil one.
Do Not Love the World
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
Warning Concerning Antichrists
18 Children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have come. Therefore we know that it is the last hour. 19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us. 20 But you have been anointed by the Holy One, and you all have knowledge. 21 I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and because no lie is of the truth. 22 Who is the liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, he who denies the Father and the Son. 23 No one who denies the Son has the Father. Whoever confesses the Son has the Father also. 24 Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you too will abide in the Son and in the Father. 25 And this is the promise that he made to us—eternal life.
26 I write these things to you about those who are trying to deceive you. 27 But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in him.
Children of God
28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming. 29 If you know that he is righteous, you may be sure that everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him. (ESV)
ELLO.. I read
I like verse 4,”Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him,”
I like this verse because it talks about obeying GOD or keeping HIS commands. It is really simple if we are in GOD we will obey what HIM. If you are a kid then you will obey your parents this is the same for GOD if you are in HIM then you will obey what HE tells you to do. I need to work on obeying everything that JESUS tells me to do.
CYA
SO TRUE! Its super simple….love God? then love others….it just comes down to doing it!
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world.
Ah my whole comment just deleted…I don’t have much more time but I’ll try to go back over it all real quick…
It is a command to not love the things of the world. If there is anyone that does love this world, than he cannot be a Christian. The desires of the flesh and the physical possessions are not from God but are of the world. Many may try to call themselves a Christian, yet they are living it up in the world. However, this is no middle ground. You can’t just try to be in between the two, pretending to be a Christian yet still caught up into the world. To these, the lukewarm, God will spit out of his mouth and punish withe everlasting destruction. I need to keep my gaze fixed upon Christ. By the way I live my life it needs to show not only that Jesus Christ is my #1 priority, but that he is my only priority, all that matters to me! I can’t let this world cause my focus to drift. I need to daily put to death my sinful desire for the world, and, through the Spirit, live a life after God’s heart!
Nice Steffen! Still a great comment! :D
28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming
Yesterday at the baptisms, I was reminded of a passage in the Bible. It talks about the day of judgement and how some people will go up and say “Lord, Lord I believed in you”, but the Lord will say “Get away from me, I never knew you”….it’s a very strong verse. How scary would that be if on that day, the Lord said that to you and you never got a second chance! I know I’d be terrified!!!!! Hell would be coming my way! Luckily, my confidence is in the Lord and I know Heaven is approaching…especially since His second coming is soon! His second coming can’t come until all His followers have been found. :) I pray that I may be used by God to save others today. MARANATHA!
It’s not ‘luck’ Trembling B! He planned it for you from the beginning. So go share with confidence today!
oh! :O thank you for pointing that out! I meant thankfully. :)
6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.
Here John says that if we are “in Him” (v.5), we will be walking in the same way that Christ walked, which means that we will be living a holy life. Now of course you and I cannot be perfect like Christ, but we will be bearing good fruit if we are saved. Our faith WILL produce good works. During the baptisms yesterday, Pastor Mike made a big deal about asking if the people who were getting baptized were bearing fruit. This was not because he thought that bearing good fruit saves you, but because bearing good fruit is evidence of true salvation. This verse as well as James 2:14-26 goes to show that a true Christian, someone who is really “in Christ” will bear good fruit and will obey God’s commands. I need to be looking at my life daily and checking to see if I am bearing good fruit. I also need to remember that it is God who is working in me to bear my this fruit. I must be humble as well, not thinking that in any way can I merit God’s grace! Even though I have been born again, I am still dependent on God! I pray that this verse would help me remember the importance of good works in the Christian life. My good works do not save me, but they are evidence that God has saved me!
29 If you know that he is righteous, you may be sure that everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him.
I love how straight forward 1 john is, it puts things plain and simple like if someone is producing fruit in their life they hare of God, if there is no fruit they are not of God (all of course after repentance)
10 Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling.
Loving our brothers and sisters in Christ is huge it even compares it to not being a christian at all if you don’t love your brothers and sisters.
Love is SO important when it comes down to living for Christ! Sweet comment dude!
Good Morning!!!
Verse 25
“25 And this is the promise that he made to us—eternal life.”
I was just thinking that Jesus will definitley keep His promises. But we have to keep up our end of the bargain or else we won’t get to be a part of His promise which is Eternal Life! How AWESOME does eternal life sound? Well, to me it sounds pretty much like living forever with the One I truly love and with no pain, suffering, or sin! That sounds good to me. Now all I have to do is live in the Truth and my Lord will grant me eternal Life!
Eternal Life is awesome!! :) Great comment bro!
I want nothing more than to live eternity in heaven with my savior!! Great comment, so encouraging!
3 And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments.
Jesus Himself makes it abundantly clear:
**”By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” -John 13: 35
**”If you love me, you will obey what I command.” -John 14: 15
**”Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him.” -John 14: 21
**”Jesus replied, “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.” -John 14: 23
**”He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.” -John 14: 24
**”…but the world must learn that I love the Father and that I do exactly what My Father has commanded me…” -John 14: 31 JESUS HIMSELF OBEYED THE FATHER’S COMMANDS–SHEER STREET CRED
**”…the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” -Galatians 2: 20c
LET US BE RESOLUTE IN GIVING OURSELVES TO–AND FOR–GOD TODAY AND ALWAYS.
Exactly Stacy! But just like the pseudo-christian, the ‘I say I’m a Christian but don’t act like one’ person of Romans 7, we can’t do it without the power of God filling our sails! Let’s focus on seeking His Spirit and He will power the rest!
17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
Chasing after material things and stuff like that is worthless because it’ll all go away someday. But by doing the will of God our treasures grow that won’t ever grow away! God’s will is forever, and He will reard us for serving Him. That’s why it’s just a waste of time trying to amass as much stuff here on earth. It’s all going to perish, so instead. i should be trying to accomplish the will of God.
1 John 2:3-4 And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him…
Clear contrast: if one keeps His commands (abides in Him) that’s evidence of “knowing” Jesus. If someone claims Christ but continuously acts against His commands that is also evidence. I love how the baptism testimonies all have a consistent theme: being ‘in Christ’ has changed wht I do! Christians aren’t sinless, we just SIN LESS. Thank You Lord for the free gift of justification and sanctification that comes with your Holy Spirit to change us! Please take over more of me today and please come soon!
21 I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and because no lie is of the truth.
This verse made me think back to Pastor Bobby’s sermon this week and how we know the two greatest stories ever: our testimony and the gospel. Here, it’s talking about the gospel though and how we already know it. But, even though we know it, it is still good to hear because it can help us to just remember what Christ has done for us but also so that we can know what we are saying. After this, it talks about how anyone who denies the son is not of God. We need to be sure that we know that Christ is God and only through Him are we saved.
4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: 6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.
28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming.
These are both really powerful passages. I know that i need to walk more in Christ than i am now and that thats the only way to live a Godly life. It also talks about how if you do not keep the commandments of the Lord, then you are not saved. we talk about this alot in true north and i think its so important!
nice to see you on SOTD Maddie!
great post :)
MADDIE!!! Great to see you on SOTD, I’m lovin’ your comment!! :D
Mmmmmm. This used to be my favorite book of the Bible–and for good reason! It’s so useful in the early stages of being a Christian when you are first trying to separate yourself from the world.
It makes it very clear here that we can not love the world AT ALL, because if we do, the love of the Father is not in us.
I also like how it points out the situation of the antichrists. Sometimes we Christians get so caught up in the end times that we hardly realize that we ALREADY are in the end times! We need to kill this thought that there is only one antichrist coming in the end, and keep our eyes out for the ones that are prowling around today!
19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us.
Sure it is very sad when people who claim they are Christians completely abandon the faith, but in reality, according to this verse they never were. If they were actually saved, they would have continued in the ways of the Lord and not have strayed and walked in the darkness.
4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: 6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.
Loving me some 1 John! This book makes it so clear that true Christians have a life change after their conversion. We spent some time talking about 1 John 2:4-6 at the Laguna Hills Small Group last week. We were all struck by the importance God puts on the actions that follow our profession of faith…obedience to His commands. God is not interested in lip service, anyone can say he is a Christian. God is interested in a total change of our hearts and lives as we stop living for sin and self and live completely for Him! I am praying that 1 John will be a mirror we hold up to our lives and that we would seriously look to see if we look like Christ in our actions and attitudes. If we don’t, then it says we are “liars and the truth is not in us.” If we are, we can have confidence that we are legiT Christians who have the hope of heaven awaiting us!
16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
I love this verse in particular because it really reminds us what we need to remember. The desires of this world, pride in our possessions, is NOT from the Father. We need to realize that we don’t want things that come from this Earth, rather than the Father. I also really like verse 17, which reminds us that the world is passing away, along with its desires. The world is just a ‘time-ticking’ object. The things in this world will rot away and die. But God and His love for us are everlasting. I really love that thought. No matter how hard we think about it, God will *never* leave us, because He’s eternal. Though we see the things and even people that we love, around us disappear, die, get lost, whatever it may be, we see it happen all around us, but God will *never* dissapear or die, or get lost. :D Yaay!
20 But you have been anointed by the Holy One, and you all have knowledge.
I dont know about you guys, but this is HUGE for me. We were annointed by CHRIST. That’s amazing in my book! This shows that we DO have the power to proclaim the name of Christ, since He Himself has annointed us :)
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
WOW! What an awesome chapter! :]
I liked the begining, the middle and the end! But I really liked these few verses because it shows that the world does not satisfy. The world is full of sin and I need to live not of this world but in it. While I am here I need to listen and obey God and what He has in store for me. I need to evangelize and go plant seeds. I need to stand up for Jesus this week and claim Him. Glory be to God for being patient with me and loving the sinner that I am.
***Praise the LORD!!!***
19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us.
This is something that really breaks my heart as a High School Pastor. I am so sad to see students leave the faith and go after the things of this world. This is why we made Don’t Stop Standing the focus of our year and why we are studying 1 Peter. I am excited to bring that series back in a few weeks!
Pray for all of the campus lunches going on this week, especially Laguna Hills in their Multi-Purpose Room on Thursday!
See you all at True North United on Wednesday night 6:30 to 8:30! Let’s defend the faith!
17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
A lot of the times it is so hard to not want the things of this world. I feel like sometimes what I have is not enough!!! The verse really put it in perspective for me. It tells me that every worldly possession is not going to last. But if I am living for Christ I will abide forever!!!!! And that sounds better than any earthly possession!!!!!!
MARANATHA!!!!!!!!
10 Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling.
This is a good verse. We cannot claim to love God and be of Him if we refuse to love each other. The Bible says that we abide in the light of Christ if we love each other….so whatever grudge you might be holding against someone, or perhaps you find yourself irritated with someone, or maybe you just don’t like someone for a stupid reason….these need to stop. If it is not a form of love, then it needs to cease. It doesn’t mean you need to be a little cupid all the time, it means that we should live a LIFESTYLE of LOVE. So let’s love each other as Christ commanded! Love you guys!
So encouraging! Great comment!!
17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
It’s so easy to get wrapped up in this life and how busy we all are. I want to take time every day to remember that this world is passing away and Christ is returning! My focus each day needs to be doing the will of God.
I write these things to you about those who are trying to deceive you.
One of the reason I John was written was to warn us about the fact that there are false prohets who’s mission in life is to deceive others and win glory for themselves. It is so important that we know the truth of God so that #1 we can keep from being deceived ourselves. And also that we may warn and help others (friends, family, classmates, co-workers) who may have already been deceived. The only way Christian can help these people is by knowing the Word of God which enable us to discern false teachings. If a teaching contradicts God’s clear and direct Word than its false. Its really easy to discern false teaching and false prophets if you know the Bible and who Jesus Christ is and how to get eternal life. I pray that God will give me the discipline to diligently memorize his Word.
Wow, what a weekend at True North these last couple of days…got to be there for all the services at True North. Even went to the additional baptism service to see people proclaim their faith. Who told their testimonies in front of a thousand people. There stories were based off of Revival 09, they were in the same room. Brothers like Jeremy Watkins and Dominic Scarmando. I remember those talks late at night after the sermons, Spencer Camp encouraged me to talk to them about the sermons to them. That was exciting! What a glorious moment.
Also pray for my preaching this week, I trust in Romans 1:16 that people who hear the Gospel; the Gospel has the power of God to save them. I really think and pray that someone can easily get saved this week!
1 John 2:
6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked. My thanksgiving project is to thank God for a great life that He has blessed me with.
WWJD? That’s probably the greatest thing to meditate on because Christ is perfect, did no sin. If we try to be like Christ, we are going to more separated from sin. Challenges us to test ourselves to see where we at, of course we are no where near. (that still shouldn’t alter the thoughts of how we should strive to live like him.)
8 At the same time, it is a new commandment that I am writing to you, which is true in him and in you, because the darkness is passing away and the true light is already shining.
“Darkness is passing away and the true light is already shining” I feel the power of this verse. That’s what repentance and santification symbolizes. Your old self, the old self that is not found in Christ has darkness. The new self, which is Christ in your life is shinning and the light is exposing the darkness and making the darkness leave.
19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us.
Last semester I took Bible Lit class and just about literally 90% of the class said that they used to go to church, basically everyone but they stop going. It really broke my heart and some of them denied that they totally don’t believe at all, but most were on the fence. Some didn’t know what to believe.
It was quite shocking, but anyways theres people who are gonna talk trash about Christianity that used to go to church. A lot of people talk trash about the Catholocism because of how the church tries to take all of your money and how it is corrupt. A lot of people think Catholics and Protestants/Christians are the same when they aren’t. A lot of people think that Christianity is all branch, but it isnt. Christianity is more like one tree, but every other religion that call themselves Christians are different branches.
I vividly remember when I was 12, a close family friend telling us when we are driving in our car. The close family friend switched from a Protestant church to a Catholic Church and she told us that Catholics and Protestants/Christians are the same. It makes me a little of frustrated when I think about that, it offends me. My God is not the Virgin Mary.
P.S. if you read this all, well thanks for spending 15 minutes of your time lol. I hope this benefits you. I feel the power that Christ has established in my life, in my heart and soul. And no, I have not gone crazy hahaha.
-Kyle Johnson
Great comment KJ! It was an awesome weekend of True North! And I praying for the campus lunch this Friday! May the gospel ring out!
thanks Bobby!!!!! I felt like today and yesterday was like a revival!
Great comment KJ! :)
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world.
we can not get to comfortable with the things of this world because this is just a short temporary home for us, we need to focus on things of God
c u all later
1 But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.
I’m so excited to read 1 John! It’s my favorite book :) Hmm this verse really stood out to me because a lot of times I hear people say (myself included) that their siblings are really annoying and they can’t stand them, always get in fights, never get along, etc. But how can we call ourselves Christians if we hate our brothers. That is scary to think that if I get mad at my brother that I am walking in darkness. I am glad that God gave us this warning because it is something that teens feel justified in but it leads to a lot of other sins (ex. anger) This verse also applies to my brothers and sisters in Christ. I think this is also a huge stumbling block when there is gossip among believers.This reminds me of Bobby’s sermon about making the whole effort and building the bridge the whole way. Even if someone doesn’t treat me right or things don’t “click” as a sister in Christ, I should still try to make the effort in loving and getting to know them.
Nice comment! I can tell you don’t hate Wesley :) You def love your brother. Sweetness! See ya!
4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: 6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.
Wow this chapter is pretty straight forward! If you keep God’s commands, that shows that I am a Christian. I also loved verse 6 too because it explains why and gives furhter reasons why. If someone says they are a Christian, they should own up to it, and show it! I am doing that now, but I still need to work on being more vocal about Christianity.
3 And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments.
4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him
i remember when Bobby spoke on this verse at Revival: Winter Edition a little over a year ago. Before that trip i had thought i was a Christian, but it wasnt until i heard this verse, that i realized i was NOT a Christian! i said i loved the Lord, and lived for Him, but in reality, i was not obeyiong his commandments, and like the verse says, we know the Lord when we keep his commandments. Im so thankful that i can proudly say that i am a Christian and i do follow God’s commandments everyday!
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
something i do struggle with sometimes is “loving” things in the world! Especially when your teenage girl who enjoys clothes and shopping! But, because i knew i struggled with this, i only go to the mall once in the while so that im not tempted to “love” what i see in the mall.
mmm nice comment cristina(:
4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him,
This verse is intense! God is calling those who do not keep his commandments yet say they know him. I want to make sure that my actions and attitude are pleasing to Christ and that I am not deceiving myself in any way possible! I pray that I will stand out and be different, representing the Lord at my school, or wherever I may be. it is scary to think that the truth is not in you if you do not keep God’s commandments! I just think about people who think they are totally fine, yet they are not doing what God is telling them to do nor are they being a good example in public. I hope that I am always showing an image of Christ and that I will not lack in zeal for the Lord!
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
This whole lil’ section just stood out to me because I should never allow myself to “compromise” as a Christian. I should not call the world my home, but rather Heaven my home. God is my father and what He thinks is the only thing that should matter, not what others think. Everything in this world will pass away, but God’s word remains forever. Therefore, I should not stress over the temporary things of this world, but rather my eternal life and my relationship with my Heavenly father:) I need to try really hard this week to share the gospel with non-Christians—aka: those of the world—and prove to them that I am different because of Christ. May God give me wisdom in my words and strength. He deserves all the glory and I owe it to my non-Christian friends to tell them about the gospel:)
8 Children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have come. Therefore we know that it is the last hour.
Um can say, “WAKE UP CALL!!!” Wow this verse totally stood out to me so much because its saying be ready the anti-christ is almost here. A lot of times i get caught up in things and put of God and say, “Im tired ill read my bible tomorrow.” But, HELLO! There could be a no tomorrow!!! God could come back at any time, like it says, “He will come like a thief in the night!” We need to be ready at every moment living days like its our last, not hesitating to tell others of the gospel, and to not put of God. Would`nt you feel guilty if you had the perfect opportunity to tell someone about Christ but did`nt, yet only to find out the next day God came back!? They could have been saved. And let us not think the anti-christ has`nt come. He could be born right now, on our earth. We HAVE to be prepared. We NEED to be ready for Gods coming! :D
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world.
WOW! What a great eye opener verse. Our desires as Christians and followers of Christ should be radically different from those of the world. I think a lot of times people forget that there are two teams in this world. Gods team and satins team. It makes no sense to be on one team but practice the things of the other team. I just love being reminded of very important things daily in the Bible that will grow me in my walk with the Lord.
Agreed! I love gaining a black and white perspective. Christians will live like Christians. Sometimes people want to live in the gray, but in reality there is no gray, either you are a child of God or not. We cannot love both the world and God. I want to rest my hope in God who is eternal instead of the world which will pass away! Everything in the world is aimed at fleshly sinful desires which are not from the Father. My prayer is that True North would be a place full of people who love God and abide in Him, instead of loving the world!
28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming.
Imagine if Jesus came back (wayy awesome!), and we were ashamed, ashamed even to the point of wishing he hadn’t come because we didn’t use our life fully for the glory of God and regretted the wasted time we spent laboring for worthless gain.
The sin of wasting time and being unproductive or lazy for Jesus is always a danger. If we know the right thing to do and fail to do it, for us it is sin. Yet there is no better time for doing the little and big things for Jesus than now! He is coming back soon and I would be ashamed to be face to face with my Lord knowing (Jesus also knows) that I hadn’t properly used my time on earth, I wasted my life.
I refuse to waste my life! God is worthy, and on the Day I will be joyful and confident, for I did not waste my life.
I’m praying that no of us at True North would be lazy and waste our lives.
Maranatha!!!!
mmmmmm i was thinking the same thing spence! let’s be ready for Christ’s return every minute of our lives!!! :]
6 Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked
this is another verse in which we are reminded that our goal is to love the world the way he did and serve the way he served. It’s difficult but it always gives us something to work toward!
Getting baptized yesterday was so beyond amazing! Thanks Pastor Bobby and everyone who came to support! I will forever remember that day. It had also brought up some good convos today when people asked what I did this weekend!
3 And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: 6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked
These verses are intense if you ask me!! They are also very important! Last week in small groups we got into this verse and we talked about how if more people knew this verse more people would realize they wernt Christians. Prior to small groups I had been talking to someone about how that you cant just say you believe that God is there to be a Christain. Also that you cant just party it up in highschool then just go to God in college and beyond. After small groups I went straight home and talked to him about this verse, just my luck he never replied. But there comes a time when all you can do is plant the seeds and let God water them, and also pray for him. I am praying for this boy daily, because the second thing was foolish to say, what if he died the next day with out being right with God? At least I did my part. Also if more people knew this verse they would realize they are liars. God is flat out callling us liars if we arnt keeping the truth. Thats quite intense. So many people realize they are not Christians because there lives didnt match up to there words. Our words can just be thrown around like fact or fiction and no one will know. But do there lives match up? I can have faith that when people persecute me I know I am living it up for God and Him alone. Praise God for persecution!
Watching all the True Northers get baptized was beyond amazing! Praise the Lord!
16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
As Christians we should first and foremost love God, not the things of this world or the ungodly figures in this world. Today it is so common in the media and the “me generation” (that’s what they call our generation of teenagers who have grown up with advanced technology & lots of “me”-centered awards) to encourage sin and the desires of this world. People often become proud to boast about their possessions. But as Christians we need to stand out and humbly not concentrate on the things of this world, but on shining Christ’s light. I love God much more than the things Satan tries to offer me, and I want to be remembered by non-Christians as being different because of my Christ-like attitude. It strengthens me to know that all the things we worry about in this life in the world around us will soon pass away and be worth nothing but only eternal life will Christ will matter.
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him
This is fact. You cannot love both at the same time its one or the other, the world cannot offer what God has to offer. That is why when people are worldly they are never truly satisfied. Only God can TRULY satisfy you. If you love the world you for sure do not love God. God said Be in the world but not of the world. We need to be living for Christ because our whole mission here on earth is to make deciples. Now Go tell the world about what Christ has done! ;) MARANATHA!!!!!!!!!!
mmhhmm, so true!! :D
Great comment!(:
16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
I really like theses verses they remind me of Matthew 6:19-20. I need to keep my focus on Heaven, not this world. I can not let worldly possessions get in the way of my walk with God, that needs to be the focus of my life. The Lord needs to be first. Passages like this help motivate me and inspire me to keep going when I struggle to not let my competition or training get in the way of my relationship with the Lord. these verses are deffinately going on my mirror
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
This brought me back to the beach nights over the summer (seems long ago, I know :P ) I think it was Ben who was saying that the world is so temporary and its gonna disappear, but the Word of God and His holiness will last forever! So, if I base my happiness on the world or on my mood, then I’m gonna have many bad days. But if no matter what happens, I remember that God has reached out His unfailing love toward me, then what is there to be sad about?? That has helped me through many a bad day this year. I need to make sure I keep following the Lord’s commands and not the pressures or impulses of this world so that I can abide forever with Christ.
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
18 Children, it is the last hour; and just as you heard that antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have appeared; from this we know that it is the last hour.
These two verses are intense!! If we love any part of the world, we are not of the Father! The world has many things to love in it, like friends, music, family, money, cars, etc. But this verse says if we do that, the Father is not in us, and that is a wake up call right there. But it makes sooo much sense to me, because like Katie said, the world does not satisfy and before I was saved I lived for myself ALOT and it didn’t feel so hot at the end of the day. And even now if I live for myself one day or one hour, I notice a difference…I want that difference to not be felt! Time to live for Christ now, tomorrow, until my dying day! The world is ending, it says so verse 18 about the antichrists and such, time to fight back against the sin within me, at school, and get the gospel out there so people won’t listen to the antichrists! MARANATHA!!!!
28 Now, little children, abide in Him so that when He appears, we may have confidence and not shrink away from Him in shame at His coming.
I think we all can relate when i say there are some things I’ve done I’m not proud of, some of them done today. So when the Lord comes, I don’t want Him to pull out this huuuuuge list of all the sins I’ve committed AFTER i was saved and all the chances I could have done something and didn’t…no, I do NOT want to shrink back in shame, but have Him to say to me, “Well done good and faithful servant.” that is my life’s dream and I want to live life out to the fullest for Him here so I can appear before His throne in complete and utter reverence.
4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: 6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.
A lot of people claim to be Christians, but this verse clearly states that if we know Jesus Christ, we will do as he commands us. Whoever does this, shows Jesus Christ’s perfect love. We need to be walking reflections of Jesus Christ, so that we have true street cred and no one can say anything bad or negative about us, only that we follow Jesus, and we try to live the same way he did.
4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: 6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.
These verses are really intense, especially verse 4! The Bible is flat out saying that if you call yourself a Christian, yet you dont act like it, youre a liar. Like some of the verses from yesterday, these remind me of Street Cred Christianity. We need to make sure we are repping Jesus in everything we do! If we are truly Christians, and Christ is really the Lord of our lives, it will reflect in how we live, and we will want to obey him and do what is right. Christians need to strive for the highest goal possible which is perfection. Everyday, I need to be trying to walk in Jesus’ footsteps!!
2:1 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. 2 He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.
What an amazing relationship we have in Jesus Christ! Why would we not want to live for him every moment of our lives!
19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us.
This verse shows us that there are people that we think are Christians but they are just acting. They will not stand the test. They will fall away. It is so sad that people that are my friends that I thought were Christians will stop standing for Christ. We can not just think that this is not going to happen at True North because we are hardcore Christians. It will happen at True North. So this verse encourages me to pray for the seniors that they will not fall away in college but will fight the sin and grow in their walk with the Lord.
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
The only reason we are on Earth now is to proclaim the gospel. We have to live in this world, but we don’t have to be of it. We are fighting against Satan who controls this world (God ultimately does, but Satan is given power in his world). God, let me not love the world, but love you. Amen.
4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: 6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.
This is a great verse. Those who say that you can sin because CHRIST came to save us obviously do not know this verse. The only thing that we can do is to follow CHRIST’s commands to the fullest.
4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: 6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.
We cannot be saying we know God if we do not follow what He tells us to do. It is like saying we are amazing at skateboarding, yet not owning a skateboard. You cannot lie and tell people that you know God if you don’t even follow what the Bible says. It is the most contradictory statement possible. Not only is it a lie, but a bad one that is totally obvious to those who know you better. Make sure we are not telling a lie to others because it will only make us ourselves believe the lie. I use to tell this lie to myself too but I realized I was faking it and I turned from that and came to God for real. Do not make my mistake of lying to myself, make my good choice and see if you too are faking.
3 And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments.
This stuck out for me. To come to know Christ as this thing says, we have to follow God’s commandments. For me, that’s pretty tough right now. I’m imperfect all humans are but believing and worshipping God should give me the strength to stop breaking his commandments.
4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him,
This just applies to that. By breaking his commandments, myself and others are going against God unintentionally. We have to try as hard as we can to stay away from sin in order to keep the truth in us.
5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected.
I liked this one because it tells us that we can, as humans, be perfected by God. Thanks to Jesus’s death on the cross, we can be forgiven. Thank you Lord, for this gift. If you keep his word, by reading the bible, and praying, Jesus is our savior, and the Lord is good!
MMMMMMMM this reoccurring theme of abiding in Christ really stood out to me in this passage!! No matter what God may throw at us in life, our dependence NEEDS to be on Christ who gives us strength and wisdom!! There are times when I decide to be foolish and think that I can do certain things on my own, and not consult my Father before hand. BAD IDEA, NEVER comes out for the better. I need to remember to stay by my Lord and Savior Jesus in everything I do!! There is absolutely no reason not to, He deserves my everything!! :D
8 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming. 29 If you know that he is righteous, you may be sure that everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him.
It is incredible to think about how one day we will stand before the perfect and holy God of the universe…our righteousness things that we have done, although proof of our salvation and a guarantee of just standing before God, are like filthy rags before the glory of God! Praise God though for Jesus who’s righteousness satisfied God’s wrath and has made me a sinner acceptable before Him!
28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming.
Just like Spencer was saying, I most definitely do not want to be ashamed or regretful of the way that I lived my life! Jesus could return at ANY given moment. When I’m older and looking back on my life, I want to know with certainty that I didn’t waste my time, but rather spent it all living for Christ. I have to remind myself often, what if Jesus came back today? Would I be ready? I want to be able to stand before God and be confident that my life was all for the glory of Him! The only way that I can do this, is if I am “abiding in Him.” Which means that my actions will be a direct reflection of what I’m saying. I will be evangelizing, reading God’s Word, encouraging other Christians, and all the other “fruit” that comes along with being a Christian. This is my prayer- that I would be always ready for Jesus to come back! MARANATHA!
28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming.
This is a good passage because it is important to always remeber not to be ashamed in Christ, rather to have a sense of proudness about him. He is definitely nothing to be ashamed about.
Although you sort of missed the point of the verse (maybe going to fast)—I’m glad you are continually on SOTD :)
We should hang tomorrow bill—ill give you a text.
6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.
I need to work on walking the walk and following how Jesus led his life. If we as achristians want to reach out to non Christians, we need to set an example by living as Christ did and following the rules he followed.
I believe in this he is trying to remind us that we are forgiven of our sins and he is telling to get out of our sins and start over and repent. I like this because we all need reminders once in awhile and someone to look after us to make sure we are doing the right thing. With that he also reminds us of the world. How what is makin us fall into sin is te world and compromising with it. Just like at revival 09 when pastor Mike was talking about two team and which one are we one the world or Gods team. We can have fun and break the rules, but later it is going to come back and haunt you. We should wait and obey the rules so that we may be with our dear father in heaven.
I read…
Verse 15… “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. ”
“Christians” (people who profess to be one), in our world today, say they love Jesus and have no works to show for it. Their lives look as if they don’t care, but they put on a mask in the church and around Godly people to look as if they are one. We need to be lights for Jesus and be used by Him to expose these people, if they are deceiving themselves. I can be more of an ambassador in this way by proclaiming this more openly than I am now, which is frequent.
MMM great chapter. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
I sent this verse in an encouragement text to my friend this morning! The thing that I learned from this verse and have been learning over the past few months is that nothing of this world can make me content. Every fleshly desire, pretty much everything that ISN’T the Lord, can never make me content. God’s grace is sufficiant enought for me! Nothing now can make me feel the way I feel knowing Christ Jesus has saved me, and I need to be reminded of that every day. I need to be in the Word every day getting contentment through the knowledge of God.
28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming. 29 If you know that he is righteous, you may be sure that everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him. (ESV)
It is super important to me that I figure out what I can do so that I can be confident that when Christ does come, if it’s tomarrow or in ten years, that I will know in my heart that I have lived my life fore Christ and that it was not a waste! I pray that I can become a stronger christian and do this by evangelizing, encouraging fellow Christians, reading my bible, praying, and other good works!
Verse 15: Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
Although there are definitely many Godly and wholesome things in this world, the majority of the world is used as a trap to ensnare us and keep us away from our God!
And because of the ever growing amount of temptation that we feel in our daily lives, now is the time to devote our lives towards our God’s will and ask for His guidance in staying away from the temptations of this world.
But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.
Another great reminder of the truth Pastor Mike preached on yesterday. There is no condemnation for me. My advocate has declared me RIGHTEOUS!
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
These verses offer a timeless reminder and warning against the love of the world. While Christians live in the world, they should not love the things of the world (lust and pride). The things of the world are so temporal, especially when compared to the eternity in heaven Christians have to look forward to. This was a good reminder to me. As I think about the culture, there might be some cool or interesting things, but I should never LOVE the world.
Psyched for True North United this week!
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever
This verse stood out to me because it is so true in the world today. And even for christians. Because we can get so caught up in what the world has to offer and sometimes forget that the things here now are only temporary. For me its sometimes difficult to not prioritise all my time into worldly things that are constantly surrounding me everyday. However, having God as my savior and knowing he is the better way, helps me back out of that track and move closer to him. God is forever, and the treasures he’ll store up for you are forever. Things…material things and other things that are here and now on this earth will pass away, but God is forever. Abide in God and the things up above and you will be on the right track.
nice to c u on SOTD :)
20 But you have been anointed by the Holy One, and you all have knowledge.
THis verse is so amazing to think about. knowing that GOd chose you to have the knowledge of Him.
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
ooooo i struggle with this verse. sometimes i feel i put some things before God.. like a sport or phone or whatever it is and i know i just need to have GOd first.. not just first but my EVERYTHING! God is are one and only!
28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming.
I do not want to fear Christ’s second comming but be excited for it…I want to be able to long for his return with a clear conscience…This reminds me to live in away that I would always feel comfortable if Jesus returned at any moment…I can’t imagine how awkward it would be if Christ came back at a moment in which I was sinning…and awkward is putting it mildly…so let’s live ready for His return.
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world.
I think this is a great verse because it cuts to the core of many problems in the world. No one wakes up one day and decides to becomes worldy but its a series of small compromises that lead to a material consumed life. I can not love the world and God at the same time and when I became a Christian that was the time I was put on God’s team. Though there are times when i find myself wrapped up in my like. I need to start realizing it when this happens to refocus my attitude on Christ and less on myself. Putting everything in perspective and how small I am compared to God helps me because it reopens my eyes to see who I am in comparison to God. I cant give into my selfish needs but need to delight in what I have in the Lord.
great comment katie!(:
Mmmm exactly!!
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
How can we love the world when we know everything we have in Christ?? I have all of eternity to spend with God, I have love and forgiveness, assurance of salvation, comfort in time of trouble, joy in my sorrow. How could I ever desire the things of this world? Why are they still a temptation to me? When I am tempted by the world to love the things of this world I need to remember the riches I have in Christ. Christ is the only one that can satisfy.
4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him:
I remember talking about this at small groups. I am really looking at my ownself as well. If we claim to know god, we must follow his word, if we don’t we are only fooling ourselves but more importantly god. God says we are liars if we claim to know him but do not follow up on our actions and beliefs. People who claim to be Christian have to KNOW GOD, follow gods word and are submitted to him. IF we do know god, and is the truth for we are living in his word, we are perfected by him, and experiencing him living throughtout us and us living in him.
Nice comment Ryanna :) I’m glad your coming to small groups and stuff — see you at TNU on Wed!
21 I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it,
there were so many great verses but i found this one hidden in there and it really caught my attention! becuase we kno the truth as christians we are held responsible to obey, to show respect, love, joy,patience, kindness…the list goes on and on this is what i want to focus on this week putting my knowlegde into practice otherwise it is worth nothing! thats all for now!<333
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world.
Ahhh such a famous verse. This is one verse that I need to listen to and put into effect. I’ve been getting very caught up in the things of this world and I need to let it all go. School, college, friends, games, and other teen things can be consuming and distracting and can down right stop ur spiritual growth. I’m gonna focus on living for God’s glory and have my eyes fixed on heaven.
Completely agree Austin. I know I also need to work on not getting consumed and obsessed over things of this world. I belong to god . . .
N.O.T — O.F — T.H.I.S — W.O.R.L.D
:)
12 I am writing to you, little children,
because your sins are forgiven for his name’s sake.
That God has forgiven our sins and made us new through the blood of his son Jesus Christ.
Ps sorry its short
This chpater is full of so many amazing things. It tells us how we know if we are a christian in verses 5 and 6 “but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.” It also talks about the antichrist, and things that we need to be aware of, which i think is awesome and interesting to learn about. Also it talks about the promises the Lord has given us! He has promised us eternal life! There is nothing more important than that! what more could i want?? I am amazed at God’s love for me. In verse 1 it says that “we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. 2 He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.” This is so awesome!!! The Lord is so merciful, and i am so thankful that he saved me, and that he has forgiven me! i can’t say it enough. He came to save the world! This is such an amazing thought, and spurs me on to evangelize. We are to called to make disciples, and maybe the Lord is waiting on us to tell that last person before he comes back, and idk about you all but i want heaven more than anything on this earth!!!! I am so excited to go and live out my life for my savior, and tell everyone the two stories i know best, my testimony and the gospel!
Once again, amazing comment! You are so encouraging(:
Way to apply the message! Those two stories are the tools God wants us to use! Let’s use them to change lives!
I absolutely love this chapter and my favorite verses are verses 15-17! It is so easy to fall into the temptations and ways of the world. But it is also extremely important, to resist that! As christians, we must be different from the world and follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Jesus was the perfect example of how we should live! Anyone who loves the world or loves life, does not have the love of God in them because all the things of this life and in this world are not from God but directly from the world and what people make of it. Another thing that people forget is the world is going to pass away, there is no doubt about that! The world and all of its desires will eventually burn up and fade away, but whoever remains different from the world and follows Gods commands will abide forever!(: That is so great to know and so encouraging! Its pretty simple, as a christian we must keep Gods commands and walk in the way he walked. NO this walk will not be easy, it will be difficult but it is a growing process to prepare us for eternal life with Him(: The antichrist is coming and he is on the prowl! Dont be the one he devours and takes down! It is so great to know that i am a child of God and that by following his commands and in his ways, i will abide in him forever (:
28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming.
it would be so horrible to meet Christ Jesus and know that you didn’t live up to your full potential. keeping this in mind, It will be easy to walk the path that God wants me to walk.
17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
Love this!! SO encouraging!! The world is going away and all the temptations of it… I can’t wait to be with God and to be in His presence worshipping Him without all this guilt of sin hanging over my head! Jesus paid it all, its all wiped clean, so now I live to do His will! I want NOTHING more than to be with Him! MARANATHA!!!
I read . . . .
1 John 2 . . . .
“15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.”
An easy thing to do : Get caught up in the world and not even realize it. To be so focused on the latest EVERYTHING, that you completely ignor God or don’t even put Him on your “priorities” list. WRONG!
Something that I should constantly be thinking about is my Father, to not be absorbed in the world, but instead . . . HIS WORD. His word is what gives me instruction, disernment, wisdom, encouragement, and most of all . . . <3 . This verse makes it clear, don't love the things of this world! Why? Because they are NOT lasting and will perish along with the Earth in the end Times. Buuuuut, if you are absorbed with the Lord and put your hope and trust in Him, than you will spend eternal life with Him because God is NOT of this world. (N.O.T.W)
"28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming. 29 If you know that he is righteous, you may be sure that everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him."
When my Father reigns down, will I quiver, run for a hiding place? Or will I shout and cry and scream with joy that He has finally returned and run to Him with open arms? When my Lord comes back, it will be the most AMAZING THING IN THE WHOLE ENNNNTIRE WORLD. I will have no more stress, no more worries, no more hw, no more pain, no more sorrow, no more morning, no more non-Christians to be around, no MORE OF THAT. The list could go on & on, but I betta' keep it a wee shorter. :P The best thing of all though . . . I'll finally see my Father face to face. The day when all my chains will be broken, the stress and everything will be LIFTED Off my sholders, and I will run TO JESUS.
What?
Sounds like a dream? Guess what . . . IT'S NOT!!! It's happenin' . . . and its happenin' sooon. :D Until that day comes however, I need to spending every waking hour and moment bringing Him glory, honor and praise. That way, when He returns, He shall be proud of His daughter, Ariana Mishreki.
The whole chapter was pretty much amazing . . . all around.
~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+M.A.R.A.N.T.H.A+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+~+
~ Ariana Mishreki :)
10 Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling.
There is a certain teacher at my school who is insanely unpredictable and gives tons of homework, but he also claims to be a Christian. I know that if he were to hear me complain about him (as I am often tempted to do) directly to his face, he would be very upset by it since he knows I’m a Christian. Plus, I would be ashamed to have to admit to him some of the angry and bitter thoughts I’ve had about his character and teaching style. As a Christian, I should be appalled at the thought of willfully sinning against anyone, but especially against another brother in Christ. Instead, I need to love them – a love that does not have to hide anything, but aims to selflessly serve others. Plus, I am surrounded in class by nonbelievers; I need to remember my witness to them, so that instead of thinking about complaining I am constantly looking for opportunities to present the gospel.
2:1 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin.
It’s so encouraging to read in the first sentence that the Lord has given us His Word in order for us to learn and grow and ultimately produce good fruit that is holy and pleasing to Him! I just love reading about how the Lord IS on our side and He is a jealous God and wants us to grow and be holy before Him!
It is SUCH a blessing to know that we have such an awesome God who loves us and wants us to live 100%, 24/7 for Him!
Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him,
This verse is so convicting!! It shows us that if we are Christians, we better be acting like it!! We must keep his commands always!!!
MARANATHA!!!!!!!!!!!!
28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming.
This just made me think about the weekends sermon. I so do not want to shrink in shame at Christ’s coming but rather have complete confidence as I eagerly await His return. Like verses 15-17 say, LORD please help me not to love the world or anything in it but instead love you and always be looking to obey your commands. Please help my mind to be set on you at all times so that I would truly be waiting and ready for your return.
Today has been on huge test of faith for me, i felt so alone this morning and as the day went on and I kept praying and kept trying my hardest to not completely flip out, I defiantly had so many blessing just showered on me and felt the love of God so strongly. Really shows you that God is all we really need. So of course when i read the scripture of the day it was perfect and exactly what i needed to hear, especially verses 5 and 6 “but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.” it just answered my prayer, told me that even though it can be hard to follow the word, there is so much more blessings and goodness and real love that comes from truly following christ with all your heart and sole and mind.
17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
Stoked that we are in 1 John today! Vs 17 really stood out to be as I think about the temporary life that we have here on earth. While many people believe that the choice in believing in Christ is between heaven and hell, the truth is, it’s between living for the here and now, or living for heaven. I want to make sure that I am completely, 100% living for heaven! My thoughts, desires, and motivations need to be on doing the will of the father! Knowing God’s will means being in the Word daily and interceeding to God for his power!
19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us.
Although in context, the verse is talking about Antichrists, there is something in this verse that is also in many other places throughout the Bible, and is so so awesome: Once I am TRUELY on God’s team, there is NOTHING that can pull me away from him. No matter how difficult things get, I can trust that He is always by my side, and nothing can tear him away or cause me to lose the faith! I am so thankful for this.
28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming
This is such a sobering verse. When Jesus comes back what would I want him to see me doing? I want to be doing Gods work and not sinning against him. It makes me think about when I was young and the feeling I got when my dad would come around the corner right when I was fighting with my brother or doing somehting that I knew i shouldnt be doing. I cant imagine the feeling that I would get if my heavenly father was the one coming around the corner. That feeling would be 1000 times worse. I want to be doing Gods work and not sinning against him so that I may please him and be ready when he comes back to take us home
28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming.
How awful would it be for Christ to return at a moment that I am sinning? I want to be confident and joyful at that moment and not embarrassed or shameful. I pray that I will always be keeping this in the forefront of my mind to fight sin in my life every day!
1 John 2
19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us.
This is a great warning to all Christians to be watchful of people who profess Christianity but their hearts are full of deceit against Christ. John is warning those who follow Christ that false teachers will come and give the appearance of Christ’s attributes but their ends are for your destruction. If we are not rooted by the Holy Spirit with understanding and discernment than we may be mislead by one of these false teachers. This is why it is very important for the new or young Christian to build a solid foundation with good theology and teaching so they are not easily enticed by the deceptive words of the antichrist. In this chapter we have been warned that these teachers are also a sign of the “last hour” or end times.
18 Children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have come. Therefore we know that it is the last hour.
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world.
Children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have come.
This is one of the versus that I use when I am talking to mormons and Muslims. Both claim that before there religion that the bible is true. So if Joesph smith followers had read this versus than they wouldhave realized that Joesph Smith is a lier. We need to realized that if someone proclaims any other gospel, (SEE GALATIANS 1:8, AND HEBREWS 9 I THINK) THAN THEY SHOULD BE PUT TO DEATH. God takes the truth and the Bible very seriously. That is why if you are bold enough to go talk in front of people about the Gospel you better make sure what you are saying is correct, or it will not be good for you. I myself try to look and make sure that what I am saying is completely bibical. If you notice how Pastor Bobby and Pastor Mike before they tell you any facts, or give you any major statments they always back it up with biblical reference. Even if you know that the Bible says something about a topic and you dont know where to find it, make sure you look it up first so that you know for sure it is correct. Also we need to keep thoughs who are teaching us in check. Paul’s said to the people that they should check everything he says to make sure he is biblical. So if you are reading this check what I am saying and if I said something that is wrong call me out on it so that either I will fix my mistake or if I continue to do this than through me out. The bible takes preaching the truth very seriously.
sorry im alittle behind….
well anyways, i really like this chapter,
9 Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness . 10 Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling. 11 But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.
12 I am writing to you, little children,
because your sins are forgiven for his name’s sake.
13 I am writing to you, fathers,
because you know him who is from the beginning.
I am writing to you, young men,
because you have overcome the evil one.
I write to you, children,
because you know the Father.
14 I write to you, fathers,
because you know him who is from the beginning.
I write to you, young men,
because you are strong,
and the word of God abides in you,
and you have overcome the evil one.
i really like the part when it says
“Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness”
thats so true, sometimes its is really hard to repect people like non christains,
and they drive me crazy…but all i should do is repect and love everyone around u and
rejoice and pray for the people that arnt christian, im glad i read this chapter:D
it made me think…