Author: Art Davison

THE BOOK OF AMOS

Art Davison THE BOOK OF AMOS 0 Comment
THE BOOK OF AMOS
Introduction:
“Amos, a Jew, but prophesying (B.C. 776-763) in the northern kingdom (Amos 1:1 7:14-15) exercised his ministry during the reign of Jeroboam II, an able but idolatrous king who brought his kingdom to the zenith of its power. Nothing could seem more improbable than the fulfillment of Amos’ warnings; yet within fifty years the kingdom was utterly destroyed.
The vision of Amos is, however, wider than the northern kingdom, including the whole ‘house of Jacob.’” — Scofield.
Though belonging to Judah, he was commissioned by God to exercise his prophetical function in Israel; as the latter kingdom abounded in impostors, and the prophets of God generally fled to Judah through fear of the kings of Israel, a true prophet from Judah was the more needed in it. – Jamison, Fausset, Brown Commentary.
The Writer:
1) His name means “Burden,” or “burden-bearer.”
2) A citizen of Tekoa, in the tribe of Judah.
fruit” = a tree, Ficus sycomorus, of the Near East, related to the common fig, bearing an edible fruit.
4) His call, Amos 7:15.
5) The attempt to silence him, Amos 7:10-13; the chief priest of the royal sanctuary to the calves at Beth-el said to Amos, “… prophesy not again any more at Bethel:”
Illustrations:
1) The straining of God’s mercy by sinners compared to the overloading of a wagon, Amos 2:13.
2) The pressure of duty upon the prophet compared to the roaring of a lion in his ears, Amos 3:8.
3) The narrow escape of a remnant of Israel compared to a shepherd recovering two legs or the piece of an ear from a lion, Amos 3:12.
4) The famine of hearing the words of the LORD compared to a famine in the natural world, Amos 8:11-12, &c., &c.
Amos, as a prophet, was in many respects like Christ.
1) In his occupation, a working man, Amos 7:14.
2) In his humility, —acknowledged his lowly origin, Amos 7:15.
3) In his method of teaching by illustrations.
4) In his claim of Divine Inspiration, “Thus said the Lord,” occurs forty (40) times in his prophecy.
5) In being charged with treason, Amos 7:10; John 19:12.
6) In the pressure of duty which was upon him, Amos 3:8; John 9:4.
7) In denouncing the selfishness of the rich, Amos 6:4-6; Luke 12:15-21.
A Brief Summary of the Book:
1) Impending judgments on surrounding nations, Amos 1:3-15; 2:1-3.
2) Threatening discourses:
a. Against Judah, Amos 2:4,5.
b. Against Israel, Amos 2:6-16.
3) The call to Israel to seek God in sincerity, Amos 5.
4) Luxurious living condemned, Amos 6:4-14.
5) A series of five visions:
a. The grasshoppers or locusts eating up the later grass of the land, which are stopped at the intercession of the prophet, Amos 7:1-3.
b. A Vision of the Fire whose devouring flames are made to cease by the intercession of the prophet, Amos 7:4-5.
c. A Vision of the Plumb line, signifying the utter destruction of the people of Israel, according to the righteous judgment of God, Amos 7:7-9.
d. A Vision of a Basket of summer fruit, signifying the destruction of the ten tribes, for which they were ripe, and which would quickly come upon them, Amos 8:1-3.
e. A Vision of a Smitten Sanctuary represents the certain desolation of the land, city, and temple, and the slaughter of all sorts of persons, high and low, none should escape it, Amos 9:1-10.
6) The visions interrupted by an attempt to intimidate the prophet, Amos 7:10-13.
7) The prediction of the dispersion and restoration of Israel, Amos 9:8-15.
a. Though the sinful kingdom should be destroyed, yet not utterly, a remnant should be saved, Amos 9:8-10.
b. The chapter is concluded with gracious promises of raising up the tabernacle of David fallen down, Amos 9:11-15.
1. Of the return of the people of Israel to their own land.
2. Of their settlement and continuance in it, never more to depart from it.

CONTEND FOR THE FAITH–JUDE 1-25

Art Davison JUDE 0 Comment
CONTEND FOR THE FAITH
JUDE 1-25

Introduction:

We believe that this Jude was not one of the apostles, but the brother of James, the writer of the epistle of James, and the half brother of our Lord, v. 1. See Matthew 13:55- 56 and Mark 6:3. This book is called a general epistle because it is not addressed to any particular church or person. It is significantly placed just before the book of Revelation, which tells of the apostasy and God’s judgment upon it!
I. WHY WE ARE TO CONTEND FOR THE FAITH BECAUSE OF APOSTATE TEACHERS.
A. Who Is To Contend for the Faith? vs. 1-2
1. Those who have received salvation, v. 1
a. They are sanctified by God the Father, v. 1a.
1) They share the common salvation, v. 3
b. They are preserved in Jesus Christ, v. 1b.
1) This furnishes eternal security, John 10:27-30.
2) The power of this security, Romans 8:35-39.
c. They are called to salvation by the Holy Spirit, v. 1c;
1) Called to salvation, Romans 8:30, “Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.”
2) By the wisdom of God, 1 Corinthians 1:24, “But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.”
3) According as his divine power, 2 Peter 1:3, “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:”
2. Those who have received God’s three-fold blessing, v. 2; 2 Peter 1:2, “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,”
a. God’s mercy offers salvation by His grace, Ephesians 2:4-5, “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)”
b. God’s peace comes to the believer, Romans 5:1, “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
c. God’s love experienced by the believer, Romans 5:5,8, “And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
d. Because of these truths we are preserved in Christ, v. 1; John 6:39, “And this is the Father’s will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day.”
B. The Apostate’s Subtle Perversions, vs. 3-4
1. The stated purpose of the epistle, v. 3a
a. He would have preferred to write of the common salvation.
b. The perversions of truth made it necessary to write on another subject.
2. The solemn proposal to contend, v. 3b.This signifies to contend about a thing as a combatant or as in a contest, 1 Timothy 6:12, “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.”
a. We are to contend for “the faith,” the body of divine truth…
1) Not to please men, 1 Thessalonians 2:4, “But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.”
2) We seek to please God preaching that which has been committed to us, 1 Timothy 1:11, “According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.”
01. “Avoiding profane and vain babblings,” 1 Timothy 6:20, “O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called.”
02. Avoiding “oppositions of science falsely so called.”
3) We are to commit these things to “faithful men,”2 Timothy 2:2, “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.”
b. It was “once” delivered to the saints.
1) “The faith” is ours to keep, 1 Corinthians 16:13, “Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.”
2) “The faith” is ours to defend, Philippians 1:17, “But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.”
3. The apostates entered secretly, v. 4a.
a. The apostates were never saved, 2 Peter 2:21-22, “For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. 22But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.”
b. The church out of neglect had let them in.
1) They were wolves in sheep’s clothing, Acts 20:28-29, “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. 29For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.”
2) Paul had warned them to “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers,”
4. They were previously appointed to condemnation, v. 4b.
1) “Who were before of old ordained to this condemnation.”
2) They were “ungodly men.”
3) “Turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness.”
4) “And denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.”
5. Their character is ungodly, v. 4c. They might have a form of godliness, but it was only a form and not real. 2 Timothy 3:5, “Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.”
6. Their conduct is lascivious. v. 4d. “Lasciviousness” simply means, “unbridled lust, licentiousness, wantonness, shamelessness, insolence.”
a. “A little leaven,” Galatians 5:9, “A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.”
b. “Out of the heart of men,” Mark 7:21-22, “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 22Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: 23All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.”
7. Their doctrine is perverse because of their denial of Christ, v. 4e.
a. Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, 1 Timothy 6:4-5, “He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, 5Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.”
b. Who bring in damnable heresies, 2 Peter 2:1, “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.”
C. The Apostate’s Doom is Intimated By Three Examples, vs. 5-7
1. Apostasy begins with unbelief, v. 5. Though saved from Egypt, God destroyed their physical lives in the wilderness because of unbelief. Numbers 14:1-45; 1 Corinthians 10:1-5; Hebrews 3.17-19, 1 Corinthians 5:1-5; 11:30-32; and 1 John 5:16, “If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.”
2. Unbelief leads to rebellion against God, v. 6. 2 Peter 2:4.
a. Fallen angels are never called the sons of God, Job 1:6; 2:1.
b. Angels are spirit beings without bodies, even though they sometimes have appeared in bodies. They are sexless and cannot reproduce. Matthew 22:30, “For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven.”
c. They could not have cohabited with human beings in Genesis 6:1-4. This passage speaks of saved people marrying unsaved people.
3. Rebellion leads to lawless immorality and perversion, v. 7; Titus 1:15, “Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.”
a. All these things terminate in the judgment of God, Titus 1:16, “They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.”
b. This was the sin of homosexuality, Leviticus 18:22-25; Romans 1:24-27.
D. The Apostates’ Impious Ways Illustrated By Three Examples, vs. 8-11
1. Their presumption (arrogance) indicated, v. 8.
a. They are “filthy dreamers.” They are unrealistic in thinking their ways will bring satisfaction and they reject God’s authority.
b. They defile the flesh, Ephesians 4:19, “Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.”
c. They believe the devil’s lie as Eve did. Genesis 3:5, “For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.”
d. They despise dominion, the lordship of Christ, 2 Peter 2:10, “But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government.”
e. They speak evil of dignities, 2 Peter 2:11, “Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities.”
2. Their presumption illustrated, vs. 9-10 “But these speak evil of those things which they know not:” v. 10a. 2 Peter 2:12, “But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption;”
3. The reason for their woe, v. 11
a. They have gone the way of Cain in rejecting the blood, Genesis 4:3-5; 1 John 3:12, “Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous.”
b. They have followed the error of Balaam in serving for money, and thinking he could get by with it, Numbers 22-24; 2 Peter 2:15-16, “Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; 16But was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man’s voice forbad the madness of the prophet.”
c. They rebel against God’s authority as did Core (Korah), who rebelled against God’s chosen leaders (Moses and Aaron), Numbers 16:1-35.
E. The Apostates’ Utter Falsity is Demonstrated. vs. 12-13
1. They imperil the activity of God’s people, v. 12a; 2 Peter 2:13-14, “And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, as they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots they are and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you; 14Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children:”
a. They were filthy spots [blemishes]. These false teachers, though participating outwardly, were inwardly denying the Lord (v. 4b).
b. They were feeding (shepherding) themselves without fear. They were false pastors. They were intruding (cf. “secretly slipped in among you,” v. 4a) without the slightest qualm or inhibition.
2. Their barrenness and fruitlessness, v. 12b, “clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;” “These men had no water for thirsty souls; they only pretended that they did.”—Bible Knowledge Commentary
3. Their turbulent shame, v. 13a; Isaiah 57:20-21, “But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt. There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.”
4. Their terrible destiny, v. 13b, “to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever.”
F. Enoch’s Prophecy Of The Apostates, vs. 14-15
1. He prophesied of the Lord’s coming with His saints, v. 14; 1 Thess. 3:7, “To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.”
2. He prophesied of the judgment upon the apostates, v. 15. We do not believe that Jude copied this out of a book called Enoch, 2 Peter 3:1-4; Revelation 19:13-16; Psalm 50:3, “Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence: a fire shall devour before him, and it shall be very tempestuous round about him.”
G. The Apostates’ Character Reviewed. v. 16.
1. The dissatisfaction of their words (They were grumblers and faultfinders who faulted others but saw no flaws in themselves.), v. 16a
2. The disorderliness of their walk {they lustfully followed their own evil desires (cf. vs. 8, 10, 18-19)}, v. 16b
3. The dishonesty of their ways (they bragged about themselves (the word hyperonka, means to be “puffed up” or “swollen”), v. 16c
II. HOW WE ARE TO CONTEND FOR THE FAITH THE PROVEN MEANS.
vs. 17-25
A. Remember the Apostasy Was Prophesied, vs. 17-19
1. The prophesied warning to be heeded, v. 17. See 1 Timothy 4:1-6; 2 Tim. 3:1-10; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12; 2 Peter 2:1-22.
a. Remember the Words of the Lord Jesus, Acts 20:35, “I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
b. Build on the right foundation, Ephesians 2:20, “And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;”
2. The time of their coming and their conduct, v. 18; Acts 20:29, “For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.”
3. Their character, condition, and conduct is the cause for separation, v. 19; Isaiah 65:5, “Which say, Stand by thyself, come not near to me; for I am holier than thou. These are a smoke in my nose, a fire that burneth all the day.”
a. Many people have no discernment, and are willing to follow those who have false fire, Leviticus 10:1, “And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not.”
b. Showmanship and entertainment are used to confuse and mislead the saints in churches.
B. Remember To Prepare for the Contending, vs. 20-23
1. Grow in the faith, v. 20a. This is done by the study of God’s word. 2 Timothy 2:15, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
2. Pray in the Spirit, v. 20b. Romans 8:26-27, “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.”
3. Make the love of God your environment, v. 21a.
a. By keeping His commandments, John 15:10, “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.”
b. By hating evil, Psalm 97:10, “Ye that love the LORD, hate evil: he preserveth the souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked.”
c. By looking for the mercy of the Lord, v. 21b; 2 Timothy 4:8, “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”
d. By showing compassion toward those being led astray, v. 22; Galatians 6:1, “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”
e. By pulling them out of the apostasy and ruin, v. 23. Genesis 19:16, “And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters; the LORD being merciful unto him: and they brought him forth, and set him without the city.”
C. Ascribe To God All The Honor And Glory, vs. 24-25
1. He is the one who keeps us from falling, v. 24a.
a. True believers are preserved, Jude 1.
b. True believers are in God’s hand, John 10:29-30, “My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. 30I and my Father are one.”
2. He will present us… v. 24
a. Faultless, Hebrews 13:18-19, Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, 21Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” Colossians 1:22, “In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:”
b. With exceeding joy, v. 24b; Psalm 5:11, “But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.”
3. A four-fold ascription to Him, v. 25; Psalm 147:5, “Great is our Lord, and of great power: his understanding is infinite.”
Based on an outline by E. L. Bynum

FELLOWHELPERS TO THE TRUTH–3rd JOHN

Art Davison JOHN'S EPISTLES 0 Comment
3rd JOHN  

FELLOWHELPERS TO THE TRUTH

3rd John 1-14
Memory Verse: 3rd John 11

Introduction:

This little epistle was written to a faithful member of a Church. We do not know where this Church was located. There are at least four men in the New Testament. by the name of Gaius. This Gaius cannot positively be identified with any of the others. His name means, “I am glad.”
This epistle reveals the responsibility of the individual in the Church to so walk in the truth that they “might be fellowhelpers, to the truth.” 3rd John 8. Error in the church is the most dangerous kind of error.
I. GAIUSA MAN WALKING IN THE TRUTH. vs. 1-8
A. The Apostle’s Greetings. vs. 1-4
1. The Apostle’s love. v. 1. His love was rooted in truth and on account of the truth. It does not relate to the sentimental love today which is so often contrary to the truth.
2. The Apostle’s wish. v. 2
a. His wish or prayer was that Gaius’ health might prosper.
b. He desired that his physical health might equal his spiritual health. Many today are concerned about their physical health, but pay little attention to their spiritual condition. II Corinthians 4:16, “For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.”
c. The same principles that make us healthy can be applied to our spiritual health.
(1) Proper diet of the Word of God. I Timothy 4:6, “If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.”
(2) Proper exercise. I Timothy 4:7, “But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.”
(3) Proper cleanliness. II Cor. 7:1, “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.”
(4) Avoid the pollution of the world. II Pet. 1:4, “Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” James 1:27, “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.”
3. The Apostle’s rejoicing. vs. 3-4
a. He rejoiced because of inward truth. v. 3a. Psalm 1:1-3, “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”
b. He rejoiced because of outward walk in the truth. v. 3b. I Thessalonians 2:13, “For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.”
c. His greatest joy. v. 4
d. Remember the source of all truth.
(1) Jesus is the truth. John 14:6, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
(2) God’s Word is the truth. John 17:17, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.”
(3) The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth. I John 5:6, “This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.”
(4) The church is the pillar and ground of the truth. I Timothy 3:15, “But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.”
B. Demonstration Of Walking In Truth And Love. vs. 5-8
1. The reward of hospitality. v. 5. Faithful service will, always bring reward. Matt. 26:10, “When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me.” Rev. 14:13, “And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.”
2. Strangers here are brethren not previously known. Heb. 13:2, “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”
3. This does not mean that we are to take just anyone in our home. In the N.T. times Christians carried letters of recommendation. Rom. 16:1, “I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea.”
4. The report of hospitality. v. 6
a. The missionaries testified of Gaius’ charity. v. 6a
b. Gaius urged to continue this work. v. 6b
5. The reasons for hospitality. v. 7-8
a. The missionaries were in this work for “His name’s sake.” v. 7a. The were witnesses to the lost.
b. The missionaries took nothing from the Gentiles. v. 7b. The did not ask the unsaved to finance the work they were doing.
c. By hospitality Gaius became a fellowhelper to the truth. v. 8. Gal. 6:6- 10, “Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” I Cor. 9:7-11, “Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock? Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same also? For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen? Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope. If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?”
II. DIOTREPHESA MAN WHO WALKED AS A TROUBLEMAKER. vs. 9-11
Diotrephes was a “church boss,” of that we are certain, though we know not what office he held, if any. A. T. Robertson wrote an article on Diotrephes the church boss, which was published in a Christian magazine. As a result 20 deacons, wrote to the editor canceling their subscriptions because of, the personal attack made on them. It is tragic today that missionaries are not received with hospitality in many churches. Too many churches have one or more Diotrephes’ in them!!
A. An Example Of A Contrary Walk. vs. 9-10
1. He loved the preeminence which belongs to Christ alone. v. 9a. Col.1:18, “And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.”
a. Many churches are cursed by mens like Diotrephes.
b. We need men like John the Baptist. John 3:30, “He (Christ) must increase, but I must decrease.”
2. He refused or destroyed John’s letter to the Church. v. 9b
3. He had spoken malicious words against John. v. 10a. John promised to deal with him when he arrived. Somebody has to stop such people. God’s people should be careful and not believe lies.
4. He received not the brethren. v. 10b. These were the missionaries, traveling evangelists.
5. He had forbidden others to receive them. v. 10c.
6. He had cast those out of the Church who did receive them. v. 10d.
7. I have known men like Diotrephes, and the devil used them to ruin churches. Some churches and pastors just let them rule until they die. When they are put out of the church, some people with no spiritual discernment will follow them.
B. An Exhortation And Warning. v. 11
1. Diotrephes is not to be followed. v. 11a.
2. Good is of God, but evil is not. v. 1lb
III. DEMETRIUSA MAN WHO WALKED AS A TESTIMONY. v. 12-14
A. The Apostle’s Commendation. v. 12
1. He had a good report of all men. v. 12a.
2. He was noted for his stand for the truth. v. 12b.
3. He was personally endorsed by John. v. 12c.
4. Such people are to be followed. Phil. 3:17, “Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.” I Cor. 11:1, “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” Heb. 10:24, “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.”
B. The Apostle’s Explanation. v. 13-14
1. He explains why his letter is short. v. 13.
2. He explains his plans for a soon appearance. v. 14a.
3. He pronounces peace. v. 14b.
4. He exchanges greetings. v. 14c
—by E. L. Bynum
STUDY QUESTIONS
1. To whom was the epistle written ?
2. What was John’s desire for him?
3. How did John know that Gaius was walking in the truth?
4. What gave John great joy?
5. Why had the missionaries gone forth?
6 . How was Gaius a fellowhelper to the truth?
7. What did Diotrephes love?
8. What had he done?
9. What did John say about Demetrius?
10. Quote the memory verse.

WALKING AND WATCHING IN THE TRUTH–2nd JOHN

Art Davison JOHN'S EPISTLES 0 Comment
2nd  JOHN
WALKING AND WATCHING IN THE TRUTH
Lesson: 2 John 1-13

Introduction:

This little book centers on “truth” which occurs five times. It provides us with a homily on truth, giving us its nature, test, fruit, character, and defense. It provides us with practical and doctrinal aspects of continuing in the truth.
There are three views about to whom this letter was written:
(1) It was written to one woman and her children.
(2) It was written to a church. Remember that a church is spoken of in the feminine gender, bride, etc.
(3) The solution may be that church was meeting in this woman’s house, which was common in those days. Regardless, it contains a powerful message on truth, to churches and to individuals. In Satan’s war against the truth he attacks the family. If he can destroy the home, he can destroy a church or nation.
I. PRACTICAL ASPECT: WALKING IN TRUTH AND LOVE. vs. 1-6
A. Knowing the Truth. vs. 1-3
1. “The elder” is the apostle John, and the title could well apply to both his age and office, v. 1a
2. “The elect lady and her children.” v. 1b. This is the Christian mother and her children whom he addresses. She was one of the chosen ones. The same word that is translated “elect” is also translated “chosen.”
a. He hath chosen us in Him, Ephesians 1:4, According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love.
b. “The elect’s sakes,” 2 Timothy 2:10, Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
c. “Elect according to the foreknowledge of God,” 1 Peter 1:2, Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.
3. Love should be in the truth, not apart from it. v. 1c. (This is the basis of fellowship). John 8:31-32, Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
4. We love, labor, and worship for the truth’s sake. v. 2
a. Jesus Christ is the truth. John 14:6, Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
b. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth. John 14:16-17, And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
c. God’s word is truth. John 17:17, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.”
5. A triad of blessings. v. 3a.
a. “Grace” that brings salvation. Titus 2:11, “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men.” Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
b. “Mercy” from which all our hope begins. Ephesians 2:4, But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us.
c. “Peace” which guards our hearts.
1) “Which passes all understanding,” Philippians 4:7, And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
2) “Peace with God,” Romans 5:1, Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
6. The source of these blessings. v. 3b
a. From the Father, 1 John 4:10, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.”
b. And from the Lord Jesus Christ.
7. The element of these blessings “in truth and love.” v. 3c. We are to love the truth.
8. By linking the Father and the Son in this passage, he is affirming the deity of Christ, v. 3
a. Acknowledging the Son, 1 John 2:23, “Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: (but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also.”
b. Jesus is God, John 10:30-33, “I and my Father are one. Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him. Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me? The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.”
B. Walking In the Truth. vs. 4-6
1. Her children were walking in the truth. v. 4, “I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.”
a. This is the correct course of the Christian life and the one commanded, 1 John 2:7, 24, “Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning. 24- Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father.” See also 1 John 3:11, 23, 24; 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10.
b. His joy was that the children were walking in the truth. v. 4a; 3 John 4, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.”
c. The reason why they walked in the truth. v. 4b, “as we have received a commandment from the Father.”
1) His Word stands forever, Psalm 33:11, “The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.”
2) His commandments are not grievous, 1 John 5:3, “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.”
2. Continue the practice of Christian love. v. 5;
a. “He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother …” 1 John 2:8-9, “Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth. 9-He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now.”
b. “The fruit of the Spirit is love…” Galatians 5:22, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.”
c. The love of God comes by the Holy Spirit, Romans 5:5, “And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.”
3. Love cannot be separated from His commandments. v. 6.
a. Obedience prompts love, v. 5, “And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another.”
b. Love prompts obedience, v. 6, “And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it.”
1) “I write no new commandment unto you,” 1 John 2:7-8, “Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning. Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth.”
2) Speak the truth in love, Ephesians 4:15, “But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.”
II. DOCTRINAL ASPECT: WATCHING AGAINST ERROR. vs. 7-13
A. Protecting the Truth. vs. 7-9
1. Teachers of untruths. v. 7; I John 2:18, 22, 26; 4:1, 3
a. They deny Christ came in the flesh, 1 John 4:3, “And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.”
b. They are branded as deceivers and antichrists. “Anti” means both “instead of” and “against.” 1 John 2:26, “These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you.”
c. These deceivers went out of the church.
1) They were not of us, 1 John 2:19; “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.”
2) They spoke perverse things, Acts 20:30, “Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.”
d. Notice there were many of these deceivers. v. 7a. 2 Peter 2:2, “And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.”
2. The presence of such teachers calls for self-examination on the part of believer. v . 8a, “Look to yourselves.” Matthew 24:4-5, “And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. 5-For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.”
3. Failure to do so will cause loss of rewards. v. 8b. 2 Peter 1:10-11, “Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: 11-For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”
4. The doctrine of Christ is the acid test. v. 9; 1 John 2:21, 22, “But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. 21I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.”
Modernism denies the doctrine of Christ. They cast doubt on His person, His virgin birth, His sinless life, His atoning death, and His glorious resurrection.
B. Protecting the Home in the Truth. vs. 10-11
1. The test of fellowship and hospitality is doctrine. v. 10
a. Refuse them entrance to your home. Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormons, and all false teachers are not to be allowed in our homes, either in person or by radio, or Television.
b. Refuse to bid them God speed.
2. Charity toward false teachers is a sin against God. v. 11. When cults, liberals, and apostates deny the doctrine of Christ, and they all do, our duty is clear. 2 Corinthians 6:14-17:
a. Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers, v. 14, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?”
b. What part hath he that believeth with an infidel?” v. 15, “And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?”
c. For ye are the temple of the living God, v. 16, “And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.”
d. Touch not the unclean thing, vs. 17-18, “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.”
C. Protecting Friendship in the Truth. vs. 12-13
1. There were many things he did not write. v. 12a
2. He expected to make a personal appearance. v. 12b
3. He expected that to be a joyful occasion. v. 12c
4. Greeting from the children of an elect sister. v. 13
CONCLUSION:

1. Love in the truth. v. 1

2. For the sake of the truth. v. 2

3. Salutation in the truth. v. 3

4. Walking in the truth. vs. 4-6

5. The test of the truth. vs. 7-9

6. Defense of the truth. vs. 10-13

. . .Based on an outline by Pastor E. L. Bynum

SONSHIP AND FAITH–1st JOHN, LESSON 5

Art Davison JOHN'S EPISTLES 0 Comment
1st JOHN 
LESSON 5
SONSHIP AND FAITH
Lesson: 1st JOHN 5:1-21
I. SONSHIP PROVED BY THE CONDUCT WE EXHIBIT. vs. 1-5
A. As Begotten Ones We Love the Brethren. vs. 1-3
1. Believing faith essential to the new birth. v. 1a; Acts 16:31.
2. Loving God and loving the brethren. v. 1b; John 13:34, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”
3. Loving God and keeping his commandments are essential to loving the brethren. v. 2; John 15:17, “These things I command you, that ye love one another.”
a. This is not a distasteful burden, but a “delight,” Psalm 119:16, “I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.” Psalm 119:24, “Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellors.”
b. This shows your love for the Lord, Psalm 119:97, “O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day.”
4. Love for God makes keeping His commandments not grievous. v. 3; Psalm 19:7-11:
a. The law of the LORD, v. 7.
b. The testimony of the LORD, v. 7.
c. The statutes of the LORD, v. 8.
d. The fear of the LORD, v. 9.
e. The judgments of the LORD, v. 9.
f. More to be desired are they than gold, v. 10.
g. By them is thy servant warned, v. 11.
B. As Believing Ones We Live Victoriously. vs. 4-5
1. Those born of God overcome the world. v. 4a. “Overcometh” is in the present linear tense, showing that this is a continual battle.
2. This victory comes by faith. v. 4b. All the great heroes of Hebrews 11 gained the victory by faith. They simply believed God.
a. “Victory” comes from the Greek word “nike.” The Greek goddess of victory was called Nike. I believe we have a well-known brand of athletic shoes named Nike.
b. “Overcometh” in vs. 4 & 5 comes from the Greek word “Nikano,” which means, “to carry off the victory, come off victorious.” It especially refers to Christians that hold fast their faith even unto death against the power of their foes, temptations, and persecutions.
c. Some variations of this word in the New Testament, which carry the idea of victory, are: Nicanor (Acts 6:5); Nicodemus (John 3:1); Nicolas (Acts 6:5); and Nicopolis (Titus 3:12).
3. Overcoming is dependent on a right belief in Christ. v. 5. John 16:33. “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
a. Our victory is in Him, 1 Corinthians 15:57, “But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
1) We are crucified with Him, Galatians 2:20, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”
2) We are buried with Him, Romans 6:4, “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”
3) We are raised with Him, Romans 6:4, see above.
b. This is why we are victorious, Psalm 98:1, “O sing unto the LORD a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory.”
II. SONSHIP PROVED BY CREDENTIALS WE EXHIBIT. vs. 6-13
A. The Evidence of the Credentials. vs. 6-8
1. He came by water and blood. v. 6a
a. “Water” speaks of His baptism that inaugurated His ministry. Matthew 3:16-17, “And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
b. “Blood” speaks of His sacrificial death. John 19:34, “But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water.” This speaks of blood and water in reverse order.
2. The Spirit bears record as the Spirit of truth. v. 6b. Romans 8:15-16, For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.
3. The Holy Trinity bears record in heaven. v. 7. This verse has largely been removed from the new versions, but we accept it just as it is written in the KJV. John 16:13-14, “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. 14He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.” 14:17, “Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” 15:26, “But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:”
4. For the 3 witnesses see v. 6 and above notes. v. 8
B. The Effect of the Credentials. vs. 9-13
Verses 9-13 furnish proof of a know-so, eternal salvation.
1. Men require a two or three-fold witness. v. 9a.
a. One witness is not acceptable, Deuteronomy 19:15, “One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established.”
b. Two or three witnesses can establish the truth, Matthew 18:16, “But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.”
c. God, the Father establishes Jesus’ testimony, John 8:16-18, “And yet if I judge, my judgment is true: for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent me. It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true. I am one that bear witness of myself, and the Father that sent me beareth witness of me.”
2. God has given a greater 3-fold witness v. 9b
a. The Father’s witness to the Son at His baptism. See Matthew 3:17, “And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
b. The witness of the Son of God who loved us and gave Himself for us. Galatians 2:20, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”
c. The witness of the Spirit by His resurrection. Romans 1:4, “And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.”
3. The internal witness to the believer. v. 10a.
a. His Spirit witnesses to our spirit, Romans 8:16, “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:”
b. Because we are sons of God, He has given us His Spirit, Galatians 4:6, “And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.”
4. The one who rejects the witness makes God a liar. v. 10b
a. His word is not in us, 1 John 1:10, “If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.”
b. That person does not believe the record of God, John 5:38, “And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not.”
5. The intent of this witness is that we have eternal life. v. 11.
a. Those who deny this do not believe the record of John the Baptist, John 3:34, “And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not.”
b. The record is that life eternal is in HIS SON, v. 11; John 11:25, “Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:”
6. The difference the Son makes. v. 12; John 3:36, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.”
7. There must be confidence in the knowledge of eternal life as a present possession. v. 13.
a. The reason for the writings, John 20:31, “But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.”
b. We can KNOW that we have eternal life, 2 Corinthians 5:1, “For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.”
c. It is not guess work nor hope, but a know-so salvation, 2 Timothy 1:12, “For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.”
III. SONSHIP PROVED BY CONFIDENCE WE EXHIBIT. vs. 14-21
A. Confidence in Prayer. vs. 14-17
1. Praying in His will assures us of confidence in His answer. v. 14. There are conditions to getting our prayers answered.
a. We must ask according to His will. v. 14
b. Our family life (husband and wife) must be right. I Peter 3:7, “Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.”
c. Problems with other Christians must be settled. Matthew 5:23-24, “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.”
d. We must abide in Christ in love and obedience. John 15:7, “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.”
2. Confidence in the petitions being granted. v. 15 Philippians 4:19, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” I Thessalonians 5:17, “Pray without ceasing.”
a. Note the prayer life of Jesus, and the example it sets for us.
1) Early in the day “in a solitary place,” Mark 1:35, “And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.”
2) Continued to get the answer, Luke 6:12, “And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.”
3) Determined prayer, Hebrews 5:7, “Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared.”
3. The actions of others may limit our prayers. v. 16. The sin unto death is sin by a believer to the extent that God takes his life, but his soul is saved. It is a dangerous thing to play with sin, and the consequences can be serious.
a. These indulged in willful sin and suffered judgment.
1) Nadab and Abihu, Leviticus 10:1-7.
2) Ananias and Sapphira lied to God about their giving. Acts 5:1-11
b. God chastises those Christians that sin, and if they do not repent, He may choose to take their lives. 1 John 5:16
4. All unrighteousness is sin. v. 17
B. Confidence in Knowledge. vs. 18-21
1. “We know” that those born of God are eternally secure. v. 18
a. This verse does not contradict v. 16 and 17, nor does it contradict 1:8 and 2:1.
b. It should be understood in the light of 3:9. See notes on that verse.
c. We know that Satan cannot touch the child of God without God’s permission. Job 1:12, “And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the LORD.” Luke 22:31-32, “And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.”
d. In temptation God will give us strength to overcome. I Corinthians 10:13, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” I John 2:13-14.
e. God has given us our armor, including the sword of the Spirit. Ephesians 6:17, “And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
2. “We know” that we are of God. v. 19. We should stand in awe and wonder of such knowledge.
3. “We know” that He has come and has given us understanding. v. 20.
a. Jesus is the true God, v. 20, “And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ.”
b. The true light, John 1:9, “That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.”
c. The true bread, John 6:32, “Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven.”
d. The true vine, John 15:1, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.”
e. And the truth, John 14:6, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” Anything else is a cheap copy. He is the real thing.
4. We know we should keep ourselves from idols. v. 21.
a. An idol is anything that usurps God’s place in one’s life. Psalm 115:4-7, “Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands. 5They have mouths, but they speak not: eyes have they, but they see not: 6They have ears, but they hear not: noses have they, but they smell not: 7They have hands, but they handle not: feet have they, but they walk not: neither speak they through their throat.”
b. An idol worshipper is like his idol, Psalm 115:7, “They that make them are like unto them; so is every one that trusteth in them.”