1 John 1:1-5
Evidence of Christianity:
V. 1
3) Christians rest in their Defender.
Where do I find rest and solace? When the world presses in?
A. Our defender frees us. He is aiming at the ideal of eradicating sin. How could it be that we could possibly “not” sin? Because our nature has changed. we are now slaves to christ not sin.
B. Our defender covers us. Christ stands in for us.
V. 2
What does propitiation mean? This is not expeation (just removing sin).
Conveys 1) turning away of Gods wrath. 2) cleansing of sin. “of the whole world” what does this mean? Universalism? If so, then there is no need o proclaim the gospel because love wins. But, god does say, “depart from me for I never knew you”. Gnosticism? No, John counters this “secret knowledge” that saves. It was offered to the whole world without discrimination. There I only one gospel and it is for all who believe. The only way to know the father is to have the Son applied to your account.
V. 3
Our assurance does not come from within, personal experience, but from without, Christ’s work.
4) Christians respond in their obedience.
A. Obedience that promotes Gods word.
V. 5
This love is a result of Christs love. This love is a result not a basis for our faith. He loves us not because of ourselves but because we are in Christ.
V. 6
C. Obedience that promotes Gods son. The older we get the more we look like Christ. We must keep walking even when we are troubled, even when tired, even when …