JOHN’S EPISTLES

3rd JOHN  

FELLOWHELPERS TO THE TRUTH

3rd John 1-14

Memory Verse: 3rd John 11

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.

2nd  JOHN
WALKING AND WATCHING IN THE TRUTH

Lesson: 2 John 1-13

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:

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.”

1st JOHN LESSON 4

SONSHIP AND THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH

Lesson: 1st John 4:1-21

I. SONSHIP AND THE DISCERNMENT OF ERROR. vs. 1-6

The Sons of God should be able to discern between “the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.” v. 6. God has given his Word as a standard, and His Holy Spirit as a guide and teacher. If the Sons of God cannot tell the difference, then perhaps they are not sons, or they have not studied the Word and yielded to the Holy Spirit.

A. The Trying of False Prophets. v. 1

1. We are not to believe every spirit. v. 1a

2. We are to try the spirits. v. 1b; Isaiah 8:20, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” 1 Thessalonians 5:21, “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.”

3. There are many false prophets. v. 1c.

a. Transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ, 2 Corinthians 11:13-15, “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.”

b. Some shall depart from the faith, 1 Timothy 4:1, “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.” 2 Timothy 3:1-8; 4:3-4.

c. Be careful that you are not deceived, Matthew 24:4, “And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.”

1) Men from our own ranks, Acts 20:30, “Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.”

2) There shall be false teachers among us, 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.”

B. The Test for False Prophets. vs. 2-6

1. They are tested in relation to the doctrine of Christ. v. 2

a. They must confess that Jesus is the Christ, v. 2, “Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:”

b. They must confess that “Jesus Christ is come in the flesh.” This verse is written in the perfect tense that indicates that He came in the flesh and continues to abide in the flesh. This is true; he abides in heaven.

2. Those who fail the test are of antichrist, v. 3a; 2 John 7, “Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:”

3. The spirit of antichrist is already in the world. v. 3b; 2 Thessalonians 2:7, “For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.”

4. The Holy Spirit, who is greater than the spirit of antichrist, indwells the believer. v. 4.

a. We know that this is the Spirit of Truth, John 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.”

b. We know that we are of God, 1 John 5:19, “And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness.”

c. We know that Antichrist is “the prince of the power of the air,” Ephesians 2:2, Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience.

5. False teachers have a different source of knowledge. v. 5; Luke 16:8, “And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.”

6. Those who hear the true teachers and those who do not. v. 6. This explains why multitudes follow the false teachers of our day.

a. The world does not know Him, John 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.”

b. He indwells and comforts the believer, John 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.”

c. He guides the believer, John 16:13, “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.”

II. SONSHIP AND THE MANIFESTATION OF LOVE. vs. 7-16

A. Love is a Family Trait. vs. 7-8

1. We are to love one another because it is of God. v. 7. This does not mean that we are to love and fellowship with false prophets and teachers, for this would contradict verses 1-6.

2. Love is evidence of the new birth. v. 7; 1 John 5:1, “Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.”

3. Lack of love gives evidence of NO new birth. v. 7; John 14:21, “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.”

4. God is…

a. “God is love.” v. 8, “He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.”

b. “God is a Spirit.” John 4:24, “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.”

c. “God is light.” I John 1:5, “This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.”

5. To know God means you have deep intimate relationship with Him, Ephesians 3:19, “And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” Much that is called love today has no resemblance to the love of the Bible.

B. The Greatest Manifestation of Love. vs. 9-10

1. The greatest example of this love, was God’s love for man and for His Son, v. 9; John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

a. We “live through Him,” 1 John 4:9, “In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.”

b. We live “for Him,” 2 Corinthians 5:15, “And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.”

c. We live “with Him.” 1 Thessalonians 5:9-10, “For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, 10Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.”

2. The direction of this love. It came down from God. v. 10. Deuteronomy 7:7-8, “The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people: But because the LORD loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers, hath the LORD brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt.”

a. You were not chosen “because ye were more in number than any people.” Deuteronomy 9:4-6, “Speak not thou in thine heart, after that the LORD thy God hath cast them out from before thee, saying, For my righteousness the LORD hath brought me in to possess this land: but for the wickedness of these nations the LORD doth drive them out from before thee. 5Not for thy righteousness, or for the uprightness of thine heart, dost thou go to possess their land: but for the wickedness of these nations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee, and that he may perform the word which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 6Understand therefore, that the LORD thy God giveth thee not this good land to possess it for thy righteousness; for thou art a stiffnecked people.”

b. But because the LORD loved you, 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;)”

3. The result of this love. v. 10.

a. Propitiation is not man doing something to appease God, Titus 3:5, “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;”

b. It is God doing something to make it possible for men to be forgiven, 1 John 3:1, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.”

4. The Responsibility to Love, vs. 11-12

a. God’s love obligates us to love. v. 11. “God so loved” is the same expression as in John 3:16.

b. Love is not seeing God, but the manifestation of His indwelling us. v. 12; 1 John 2:5, “But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.”

B. The Indwelling Presence of God and Love, v . 13-16

1. The Spirit testifies to a double indwelling. v. 13; Romans 8:16, “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:” Compare John 15:1-10.

2. The Spirit’s indwelling enables us to testify. v. 14; Acts 18:5, “And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.”

3. Confession that Jesus is the Son of God, is more than the recital of a creed. v. 15; vs. 2, “Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God.”

4. Love is a working force in our lives. v. 16.

a. “Oh how great is thy goodness,” Psalm 31:19, “Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!”

b. Note David’s attitude, Psalm 18:1-2, “I will love thee, O LORD, my strength. 2The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler [shield], and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.”

III. LOVE’S PERFECTION AND INCENTIVE TO LOVE, vs. 17-21

A. Love’s Perfection in Us. vs. 17-18

1. He makes our love mature. v. 17a.

a. If we love one another, v. 12, “No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.”

1) Evidence of salvation, “God dwelleth in us.”

2) His love matures in us, “his love is perfected in us.”

b. This love is the only evidence that the public may see regarding Jesus Christ in our lives, 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.”

2. This will help us face the judgment seat of Christ. v. 17b; 1 John 2:28, “And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.”

3. There is no fear in love. v. 18a; 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

4. Love casteth out fear. v. 18b.

a. Passed from death unto live, John 5:24, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.”

b. No fear of condemnation, Romans 8:1, “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” Our sins were judged on the cross.

5. Fear reveals immaturity. v. 18c, “He that feareth is not made perfect in love.”

a. We have help, Romans 8:15, “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.”

b. We have encouragement, Romans 8:35-39.

1) Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? vs. 35-36, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”

2) We are more than conquerors through him that loved us, vs. 37-39, “Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

B. The Greatest Incentive to Love. v. 19

1. The eternal sovereign love of God is the fountain of all that is good in us. v. 19, “We love him, because he first loved us.”

2. He loved us when we were unlovely. v. 19;

a. For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived… Titus 3:3-7, “For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.”

b. But Jesus Christ has “washed us from our sins in his own blood,” Revelation 1:5, “And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood.”

“He did not wait till I loved Him,

But He loved me at my worst:

He needn’t ever have loved me at all,

If I could have loved Him first.”

C. The Brotherhood of Love. vs. 20-21

1. The man who is a liar. v. 20a

a. 1 John 1:6, “If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:”

b. 1 John 1:8, “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.”

c. 1 John 1:10, “If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.”

d. 1 John 2:4, “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.”

e. 1 John 2:22, “Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son.”

2. The unanswerable question. v. 20b, “for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?”

3. The commandment of consistency. v. 21, “And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.”

1. The command from God.

2. The proof of salvation is in loving your brother in the Lord.

1st JOHN LESSON 3

SONSHIP AND HOLY LIVING

Lesson: 1st John 3:1-24

Remember that I John falls into two divisions:

1. Fellowship: Walking in the Light, chapters 1-2;

2. Sonship: God is Love, chapters 3-5.

Here the Apostle magnifies the love of God in what He has done for us. He argues for holiness and against sin. He emphasizes love among the brethren and the blessings of obedience to the Lord.

I. RIGHTEOUS LIVING: THE EVIDENCE OF SONSHIP. vs. 1-10

A. God’s Love, An Incentive to Righteous Living. v. l

1. This section (vs. 1-10) is an expanded emphasis of 2:29, which speaks of doing righteousness.

2. God’s past work of bestowing His love. v. 1

3. It is pure grace that we are the sons of God. v. 1

4. “What manner” comes from a Greek adjective that expresses astonishment and admiration.

5. Sonship separates us from the unbelieving world.

B. The Second Coming an Incentive to Righteous Living. vs. 2-3

1. Our present standing–Sons of God. v. 2a

2. The uncertainty of our future standing. v. 2b. Some hints are given.

a. When Christ shall appear, Colossians 3:4, When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

b. Then shall the righteous shine, Matthew 13: 43, Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.

c. I will that they also be with me where I am, John 17:24, Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.

d. Heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ, Romans 8:17, And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.

e. They shall see his face, Revelation 22:4, And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads.

3. The certainty of our FUTURE STANDING, we shall be LIKE HIM. v. 2c.

a. Verse 1 tells us what we ARE.

b. Verse 2 tells us what we SHALL BE.

c. Verse 3 tells us what we SHOULD BE.

4. His coming and our change, a purifying hope. v. 3. Philippians 3:20-21, For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

a. For our citizenship is in heaven, Ephesians 2:19, “Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;”

b. The Lord Jesus Christ shall change our vile body, 1 Corinthians 15:51-52, “Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.”

c. It will be fashioned like unto his glorious body, 1 Corinthians 15:53, “For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.”

C. Salvation’s Intent Is Holy Living. vs. 4-5

1. Sin is the transgression of the law. v. 4. Let us look at the Bible definitions of sin….

a. Whatsoever is not of faith is sin. Romans 14:23, “And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.”

b. The thought of foolishness is sin, Proverbs 24:9a, “The thought of foolishness is sin:”

c. Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. James 4:17, “Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.”

d. All unrighteousness is sin, 1 John 5:17).

e. Sin is a defilement (to make filthy or impure), I John 1:9-2:2.

2. Christ manifested to take away our sins. v. 5. This is the reason He died for our sins.

D. Sonship and Righteous Living. vs. 6-10

1. Abiding in Christ and the absence of sin. v. 6

a. Abiding in Him is the secret of righteous living. v. 6a. See John 15:4-10. (See notes on v. 9). See Romans 6:1-23

b. Sinning is the proof of non-abiding. v. 6b

2. Righteous living is the proof of sonship. v. 7a

3. Such righteousness is the family likeness. v. 7b

4. Such sinfulness is the family likeness. v. 8a

5. Sin is the continual mark of Satan’s character. v. 8b

6. Since Christ came to destroy the works of the devil, how can the sons of God do such works? v. 8c

7. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin. v. 9. In 1:8 and 2:1 we find that the child of God may sin. These verses are not in conflict with v. 9. There can only be two possible interpretations of v. 9.

a. The spiritual man that is born again cannot sin but the fleshly man can sin. John 3:6; I Peter 1:23, Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

b. The child of God cannot habitually sin. We believe that both interpretations are true. The born again nature cannot sin, but the flesh can, John 3:6, That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Romans 7:14-25. While the new nature cannot sin, the old nature can.

1) If the new nature is nurtured and followed, then it will overcome the old nature, Romans 7:17, “Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.” To overcome sin, we must feed the new man (the spiritual man), with the Word of God.

2) We must also exercise the new man. I Timothy 4:7, But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.

3) At the same time we must starve the old man, (the fleshly man), by not feeding him on the sinful things of this world, James 1:13-15, Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

8. How to distinguish the family of God from the family of the devil. v. 10, “In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.”

a. “Keepeth not His commandments,” 1 John 2:4, “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.”

b. A living sacrifice, Romans 12:1, I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

c. He takes heed thereto [ His Life] according to the Word of God, Psalm 119:9-11, Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

II. BROTHERLY LOVE AND SONSHIP. vs. 11-18

A. Sonship and Love. vs. 11-15

1. We are to love our spiritual brothers. v. 11

2. Cain is an example of the devil’s children. v. 12;

a. Abel’s acceptance by God for the correct offering started this, Hebrews 11:4, By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.

b. Cain chose to follow his own will instead of God’s Word, John 8:44, Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. Cain was not an atheist, but he pretended to be a believer by bringing an offering. His bloodless sacrifice and his hatred of his brother, both prove that he was a liar and a child of the devil.

3. God’s children are hated by the world IF they serve God, v. 13, “Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you.” John 15:18, If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.

4. Love gives evidence of sonship. v. 14.

5. Hate gives evidence of relationship to Satan. v. 15, “Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.” Matthew 5:21-26

B. The Evidence of Love. vs. 16-18

1. His love is an example of how our love should be. v. 16.

a. What God did for us, John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

b. What we ought to do for our brethren, I John 3:16

2. The practical evidence of our love. v. 17. Galatians 6:10, “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.”

3. Our love is to be in deed, not in word only. v. 18. James 2:15-16, If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Some love in tongue, but they do not love in deed and in truth.

III. SONSHIP AND ASSURANCE. vs. 19-24

A. The Nature of Assurance. vs. 19-21

1. Assurance depends on the practice of love.

a. Our heart persuades us, v. 19, “And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him.”

b. Before you offer your best to the Lord, “be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” Matthew 5:23-24, “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.”

2. Love brings assurance to our hearts. v. 20; Romans 2:14-15, “For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: 15Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)”

3. If our heart condemns us not, we have assurance from God. v. 21; 1 John 2:28, “And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.”

B. The Realization of Sonship. vs. 22-24

1. Answered prayer gives evidence of sonship. v. 22. Psalm 37:4, ”Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.”

2. We are to believe on His name. v. 23; John 6:29, “Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.” This means to believe all that His name implies His deity, His Saviourhood, etc.

3. Keeping His word gives evidence of sonship. v. 24a; John 14:20-23, “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. 22Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? 23Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.”

4. His indwelling Spirit gives evidence of sonship. v. 24b; 1 John 4:13, “Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.” Romans 8:14-16, “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:”