John ends the letter to his beloved children in the faith with the reminder to never give up. He knows the challenges they face, the struggles they endure, and the hope they possess. He writes a three-paragraph conclusion encouraging his audience – and that includes you – to never give up, to not stop believing […]
The quest for truth and authenticity is great. Although we can disguise it in silly forms, society longs for truth. Social media outlets seek to answer silly questions like “will it taco?” and “is it cake?” But for every humorous content creator, there are serious questions being asked like “is it real?” and “are we […]
The secret to victory is that Jesus never fails. John addresses the web of warriors we form as we do battle with the enemies of our faith. Are you part of the web of warriors?
John addresses real situations his audience faces. Many false prophets shared incorrect information about God. Others claimed to represent God. How can a person know God loves them? John says you can be sure God loves you. God not only demonstrates His love, He reveals the power of His love also. Have you experienced God’s […]
John dealt with a confused audience. Although they wanted to hear what God was saying, was God speaking through so many different messages? To whom should they listen? What makes a good speaker? What is an accurate message? Jesus is the message. John addresses the contrasting messages and voices to assure we hear the right message […]
Death deeply affects those closest to the one who dies. Although the world keeps moving, everything else seems to move so slowly. That is where we find the followers of Jesus this morning. The followers of Jesus are about to learn that resurrection sets things right. Sit with them as Jesus brings three distinct messages. […]
John highlights the important message “God is light.” Now John emphasizes another familiar message about love. This message is life-changing and life-defining. Love is transformative. Love transforms emotions into motions. John provides his audience with an illustration, an explanation, and a commendation about love.
God’s children are identifiable. Strong family traits will give away the relationship if you know to look for them. The believer has the truth needed to stay faithful to Jesus Christ. Faithfulness also serves as a spiritual paternity test. Confidence and conduct identify every believer.
Escape rooms offer interesting insight into human behavior; some people panic while others work methodically through the puzzle. Once the scenario begins, you have a set limit of time to work your way through a series of puzzles that will eventually lead to you leaving the room. What fascinates me is that at the beginning, […]
Memories can be deceitful. However, John’s lesson today is a basic reminder: Love God and love others. If you are going to live a meaningful life as a follower of Jesus, loving God and others is mandatory. John highlights three items to remember.