Abiding in Christ: Recognizing Truth and Living Righteously
Summary
### Summary
Today, we continued our series "Prove It," focusing on the book of 1 John. We've been exploring how we can prove that we know God through a series of tests. These tests include loving our neighbors, growing spiritually, obeying God's commands, not loving the world, and discerning truth from lies. Today, we delved into the final test: Are you abiding in Christ?
John emphasizes the importance of letting the gospel message, which we have heard from the beginning, dwell in us. This message is unchanging and central to our faith: Christ lived a sinless life, died for our sins, and offers us eternal life. John warns against false teachers who distort this truth and encourages us to know the gospel so well that we can immediately recognize and reject false teachings.
Abiding in Christ means letting His word dwell richly in us, transforming our hearts and lives. This involves daily reflection on the gospel, thanking God for His mercy, and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us in understanding Scripture. John reassures us that the Holy Spirit, our helper, will teach us and remind us of the truth.
John also speaks about the importance of being prepared for Christ's second coming. He reminds us that our deeds will be revealed on the day of judgment, and we should strive to live righteously, not to earn salvation, but to honor God. Our confidence on that day comes from abiding in Christ and knowing that His sacrifice covers our sins.
Finally, John transitions to the next section of his letter, which will focus on how we can prove that we love God. He encourages us to remain in fellowship with Christ so that we can stand confidently and unashamed before Him.
### Key Takeaways
1. Abiding in Christ: Abiding in Christ means letting the gospel message dwell richly in us, transforming our hearts and lives. This involves daily reflection on the gospel, thanking God for His mercy, and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us in understanding Scripture. [10:08]
2. Recognizing False Teachings: Knowing the true gospel helps us recognize and reject false teachings. John emphasizes the importance of being so familiar with the truth that we can immediately identify anything that contradicts it. This requires diligent study and reflection on God's word. [08:37]
3. The Role of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is our helper, guiding us in understanding Scripture and reminding us of the truth. Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would dwell in us, teaching us and helping us to live according to God's word. [17:07]
4. Preparation for Judgment Day: John reminds us that our deeds will be revealed on the day of judgment. We should strive to live righteously, not to earn salvation, but to honor God. Our confidence on that day comes from abiding in Christ and knowing that His sacrifice covers our sins. [23:57]
5. Practical Application: Start simple in your study of the Bible. Begin with books like 1 John or the Gospel of John. Pray for the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to the truths in Scripture. Use resources like devotionals and church teachings to deepen your understanding and help you abide in Christ. [29:44]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[00:58] - Introduction to the Series
[01:43] - Tests of Knowing God
[02:30] - Importance of Believing the Truth
[03:12] - Bringing Your Bible to Church
[03:57] - Encouragement to Study the Word
[04:39] - Reading 1 John 2:24-29
[06:16] - Abiding in Christ
[07:23] - The Unchanging Gospel
[08:37] - Recognizing False Teachings
[10:08] - Letting the Word Dwell in You
[11:37] - Reflecting on the Gospel
[12:59] - The Promise of Eternal Life
[14:29] - Dealing with False Teachers
[15:55] - The Infallibility of Scripture
[17:07] - The Role of the Holy Spirit
[18:21] - Understanding Basic Doctrines
[19:34] - Importance of Biblical Teaching
[20:56] - Spiritual Maturity
[22:23] - Transition to Loving God
[23:57] - Preparation for Judgment Day
[25:17] - The Day of Judgment
[26:44] - Confidence in Christ
[28:09] - Practicing Righteousness
[29:44] - Practical Application
[31:04] - Final Encouragement and Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1 John 2:24-29
### Observation Questions
1. What does John mean by "letting what you have heard from the beginning abide in you"? ([06:16])
2. How does John describe the role of the Holy Spirit in helping believers understand the truth? ([17:07])
3. According to John, what is the promise that God has made to us? ([11:37])
4. What does John say will happen on the day of judgment? ([23:57])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important to be familiar with the true gospel to recognize false teachings? How does this help in our daily walk with Christ? ([08:37])
2. How does abiding in Christ give us confidence for the day of judgment? What does this confidence look like in practical terms? ([23:57])
3. What does John mean when he says that the Holy Spirit will teach us and remind us of the truth? How can we rely on the Holy Spirit in our study of Scripture? ([17:07])
4. How does John’s emphasis on eternal life shape our perspective on current challenges and sufferings? ([11:37])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your daily routine. How often do you take time to thank God for His mercy and reflect on the gospel? What changes can you make to ensure this becomes a regular practice? ([10:08])
2. Think about a time when you encountered a teaching that didn’t align with Scripture. How did you handle it? What steps can you take to better prepare yourself to recognize and reject false teachings in the future? ([08:37])
3. The sermon emphasized the importance of letting the word of God dwell richly in us. What specific steps can you take this week to deepen your understanding of Scripture? ([10:08])
4. How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit to guide you in understanding Scripture? What practical steps can you take to invite the Holy Spirit into your study time? ([17:07])
5. John speaks about being prepared for the day of judgment. What are some areas in your life where you feel you need to strive for more righteousness? How can you start making changes today? ([23:57])
6. The sermon mentioned starting simple in your study of the Bible. What book of the Bible will you start with, and how will you structure your study time? ([29:44])
7. How can you ensure that your hope is placed in the truth of the gospel rather than in temporary things of this world? What practical steps can you take to shift your focus? ([11:37])
Devotional
Day 1: Abiding in Christ
Abiding in Christ means letting the gospel message dwell richly in us, transforming our hearts and lives. This involves daily reflection on the gospel, thanking God for His mercy, and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us in understanding Scripture. When we abide in Christ, we are not merely acknowledging His existence but allowing His teachings to permeate every aspect of our lives. This deep connection with Christ is cultivated through consistent prayer, study of the Bible, and a heart open to the Holy Spirit's guidance. By doing so, we become more attuned to God's will and more capable of living out His commands in our daily lives.
John emphasizes that the gospel message we have heard from the beginning is unchanging and central to our faith: Christ lived a sinless life, died for our sins, and offers us eternal life. This foundational truth should be the cornerstone of our spiritual lives, influencing our thoughts, actions, and decisions. As we let this message dwell in us, it transforms us from the inside out, making us more like Christ in our character and conduct. [10:08]
Colossians 3:16 (ESV): "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God."
Reflection: How can you make time today to reflect on the gospel message and allow it to transform your heart and actions?
Day 2: Recognizing False Teachings
Knowing the true gospel helps us recognize and reject false teachings. John emphasizes the importance of being so familiar with the truth that we can immediately identify anything that contradicts it. This requires diligent study and reflection on God's word. In a world filled with various interpretations and teachings, it is crucial to have a solid understanding of the gospel to discern what aligns with God's truth and what does not. By immersing ourselves in Scripture, we equip ourselves with the knowledge needed to stand firm against false doctrines.
False teachers often distort the truth for their gain or to lead others astray. John warns believers to be vigilant and to know the gospel so well that any deviation from it is immediately apparent. This level of discernment comes from a deep and ongoing relationship with God's word, where we continually seek to understand and apply its truths in our lives. [08:37]
2 Timothy 4:3-4 (ESV): "For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths."
Reflection: What steps can you take today to deepen your understanding of the gospel so that you can better recognize and reject false teachings?
Day 3: The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is our helper, guiding us in understanding Scripture and reminding us of the truth. Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would dwell in us, teaching us and helping us to live according to God's word. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in our spiritual growth, providing wisdom, comfort, and conviction. As we navigate the complexities of life, the Holy Spirit is there to illuminate our path, helping us to discern God's will and empowering us to live in obedience to His commands.
John reassures us that the Holy Spirit will teach us and remind us of the truth, ensuring that we are not left to our own devices. This divine assistance is a source of great comfort and strength, enabling us to face challenges with confidence and faith. By relying on the Holy Spirit, we can grow in our understanding of Scripture and become more effective in living out our faith. [17:07]
John 14:26 (ESV): "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you."
Reflection: How can you invite the Holy Spirit to guide you in your study of Scripture and in your daily decisions today?
Day 4: Preparation for Judgment Day
John reminds us that our deeds will be revealed on the day of judgment. We should strive to live righteously, not to earn salvation, but to honor God. Our confidence on that day comes from abiding in Christ and knowing that His sacrifice covers our sins. The awareness of judgment day should motivate us to live lives that reflect God's holiness and righteousness. It is not about earning God's favor but about responding to His grace with a life that honors Him.
Living righteously involves making choices that align with God's will and demonstrating His love and justice in our interactions with others. By abiding in Christ, we are empowered to live in a way that pleases God, knowing that our ultimate hope and security lie in His finished work on the cross. This perspective helps us to prioritize what truly matters and to live with an eternal mindset. [23:57]
2 Corinthians 5:10 (ESV): "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil."
Reflection: What is one specific area of your life where you can strive to live more righteously today, not to earn salvation, but to honor God?
Day 5: Practical Application
Start simple in your study of the Bible. Begin with books like 1 John or the Gospel of John. Pray for the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to the truths in Scripture. Use resources like devotionals and church teachings to deepen your understanding and help you abide in Christ. Developing a consistent habit of studying the Bible can seem daunting, but starting with manageable steps can make it more approachable and sustainable.
John encourages believers to remain in fellowship with Christ so that they can stand confidently and unashamed before Him. This involves not only personal study but also engaging with the community of faith through church services, Bible studies, and fellowship groups. By doing so, we can support one another in our spiritual journeys and grow together in our understanding of God's word. [29:44]
Psalm 119:105 (ESV): "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."
Reflection: What is one practical step you can take today to start or deepen your study of the Bible, and how can you involve others in this journey?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "We've asked the question Cody asked us a few weeks ago, are you growing spiritually? Are you actually progressing in your faith? And taking steps to look more like Christ every single day? Of course, we're sinners. We're never going to be perfect. But are we actively trying to look more like Christ? Are we growing spiritually?" [01:43] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Are you loving the world? Are you loving the things of this world too much? We, of course, are part of this world, but we have an eternal home in heaven, and we should look more like citizens of heaven than we do citizens of the world. Are you loving the world or are you loving Christ?" [02:30] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The gospel should dwell so richly in you that your hope is not in anything in this world. Your hope should not be placed in your job. Your hope should not be placed in your kids' sporting events. Your hope should not be placed in your finances. Your hope should not be placed in anything, other than the truth of the gospel. That one day, regardless of the suffering of this world, you will have eternal life with Christ Jesus if you've placed your faith in him." [13:33] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Do you know that Jesus is the only way to heaven, period, dot? Do you know that scripture is completely infallible? That means without error, and it is the inspired word of God, that everything that you read is the inspired word of God." [15:55] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Are you abiding in Christ? Is the truth of the God dwelling richly inside of you? The Holy Spirit is our helper who can help us understand scripture. So I encourage you, if you're saying, man, Rob, I still feel a little overwhelmed when I look at the 66 books of scripture, the different letters that were written. I don't even know what that necessarily means, the prophets, the Psalms. Where do I start? I would say start simple. Start with maybe this book of 1 John. Start with the gospel of John, which is the account of Jesus' life on earth." [20:56] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "We've had a series of tests, or rather John has asked us a series of tests, and we've been pulling these out. Questions like, are you loving your neighbor? Do you actually love those around you? Not just your next door neighbor in your street, but do you love fellow believers? Or do you grumble and complain about them? We've been asking that question because we know that those who follow Christ are called to love one another." [01:00] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "John says, let you of what you have heard from the beginning abide in you, then you too will abide in the Son that is Jesus and in the Father, that's our God. You might ask, why does John remind us of this again? He's reminded us a few times throughout this book. Why does he continue to come back to this? Well, it's because in this letter that he's writing to the church, there were false teachers, or Gnostics was what they were known as, and they were teaching a heresy that was contradictory. Contradictory to the gospel of Christ." [07:23] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "John doubles down on that idea in these verses and he gives us practical application and evidence to know if we know God. Last week he said, hey, you need to know the gospel. You need to know truth. This week he gives us application. How do we do that? Well, we have evidence that we know God. We're abiding in Christ. We're abiding in Christ. John gives us this great if-then statement in the scripture. We're abiding in Christ. We're abiding in Christ. If you know the words of God, you will be abiding in Christ." [08:37] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Part of that reflection on the goodness of God should remind us of his promise to us, and that promise is eternal life. Verse 25, read with me. And this is the promise that he has made to you. Eternal life. John centers us again. He centers us back on the hope of our future. As I mentioned earlier, there were false teachers coming against the Christians, the early church that John was writing to. False teachers had come in and were stirring doubt among believers, trying to convince them that they weren't actually saved, or that they wouldn't have eternal life, and that they didn't know God." [11:37] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So I ask you again, the question, are you abiding in Christ? Are you abiding in Christ? Are you abiding in him? Do you let the word of God dwell in you richly? Do you have righteousness that proves your faith? Can you look at this and say, man, I strive to practice righteousness, not because I think that my good deeds will outweigh my bad deeds on the day of judgment, but because I want so much that when Jesus comes back, I can stand confidently before him and say, I love you to my very best. I abide it in your word daily. I understand that you are your scriptures and I wanted a life that honored and glorified you." [28:09] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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