1 John: Real Christianity | Week Four
Begin by sharing prayer requests and praying for one another
Read 1 John 2:28-3:10 aloud as a group
Sermon Overview
Through faith in Jesus, we become children of God—not by our own effort, but by His grace—and this identity shapes how we live rather than being something we earn through obedience. As God's children, we naturally begin to resemble Him as His nature is planted within us by the Holy Spirit, transforming us from the inside out. This identity is permanent and unshakeable: no circumstance, failure, or season of life can change the fact that we belong to God.
Discussion Questions:
Read 1 John 3:1. What does it mean that God has "given" us the love that makes us His children? Why is it significant that this is a gift rather than something earned?
The sermon explained that we are "justified" (declared righteous), being "sanctified" (growing in holiness), and will be "glorified" (perfected when Jesus returns). Which of these three do you find most encouraging? Which is hardest to grasp?
Read 1 John 2:28-29. What does it mean practically to "abide" or "remain" in Jesus? What are some ways you can tell if you're abiding versus just visiting?
Travis used the illustration of his kids running to him fearlessly when he came home. Do you approach God with that kind of confidence? What holds you back or helps you move toward that posture?
Read 1 John 3:9-10. John says that those born of God cannot "keep on sinning" as a lifestyle. How is this different from saying Christians never sin? What's the difference between struggling with sin and making peace with it?
The sermon emphasized that we don't obey to belong-we obey because we belong. How does this truth change your motivation for fighting sin or pursuing righteousness?
This Week’s Discipleship Rhythm: Serve the Community
Reach out to someone in outside of our church family with a specific act of love (meal, text of encouragement, offer to help with something practical).
Prayer
Praise God for the gift of being called His children. Ask for the Holy Spirit's power to fight sin and love others well.