Sermon Central
-
Exposition Of 1 John
Contributed by Christopher Benfield on Jun 23, 2016 (message contributor)
-
1. A Witness To The Word Of Life
Contributed on Jun 23, 2016
As John begins this mighty epistle, he does so by exalting the Lord, Jesus Christ. We must never lose our focus and awe of the Lord. The first few verses of the epistle set the stage for what is to follow.
A Witness to the Word of Life 1 John 1: 1-4 Tonight I want to begin a study of the first epistle of John. Although John never mentions himself directly in this epistle, he is universally accepted as the author. The style, vocabulary, and content point to John, with direct similarities to the ...read more
-
2. A Compelling Conclusion (Part 1)
Contributed on Jun 24, 2016
There are absolutes in the Christian life. Many deal with doubt and fear, but it is possible to be certain of salvation and live abundantly in Christ.
A Compelling Conclusion (Part 1) # 18 1 John 5: 13-21 After several months of study we have come to the concluding passage of 1st John. We have been encouraged and greatly challenged in our personal walk with the Lord. John spoke much about our love for the Lord and for one another. There was ...read more
-
3. The End Time In Our Time
Contributed on Jun 23, 2016
It is increasingly apparent that we are living in the end times. The return of our Lord is drawing closer with each passing day. As we move through these last days, it is good to have biblical instruction regarding them. John provides needed insight.
The End Time in Our Time 1 John 2: 18-23 In our previous study John gave direction concerning spiritual victory for the believer. Regardless of our maturity level, all need to grow in the Lord. Continued growth is essential in overcoming the difficulties we face. John knew the struggles ...read more
-
4. Advancing In The Midst Of Adversity
Contributed on Jun 23, 2016
The difficulties associated with our modern day are reaching new levels of intensity. The majority is not interested in the Word or worship. As difficult as it may be, we remain obligated to serve the Lord and reach others. We can advance for Christ.
Advancing in the Midst of Adversity 1 John 2: 24-29 Take a moment to consider the great challenges John spoke of in our last study. He warned the spirit of antichrist was already among us, seeking to undermine the church and hinder her ministry. He reminds us that we are living in the last ...read more
-
5. The Need For Spiritual Discernment
Contributed on Jun 23, 2016
Man is designed to be a spiritual being. He will worship something, even if it's a false god. The truth has been diluted and compromised by many, and we live among many who are confused. There is an urgent need for spiritual discernment in our day.
The Need for Spiritual Discernment 1 John 4: 1-6 I am sure we’ve all been warned about believing everything we hear. The same caution should be applied for what we see as well. It is foolish to believe everything we are told and much of what we see. Lies and deception were used to tempt ...read more
-
6. The Comfort And Confidence Of Children
Contributed on Jun 23, 2016
There is nothing more comforting for a child, than a safe and loving home. Such an environment fosters growth and stability. The same principle applies for the children of God. Living confidently in Him, we enjoy growth and stability.
The Comfort and Confidence of Children 1 John 3: 1-3 Our text this evening deals with the wonderful love of God and the eternal blessings bestowed on those who have been adopted into the family of God through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ our Lord. There is no greater comfort than knowing one ...read more
-
7. The Evidence Of Godly Love
Contributed on Jun 24, 2016
Love is a powerful force and motivator in our lives. Love compels us to act, affecting our lives and our behavior toward others. Love motivated Christ to bear our sin on the cross. Genuine love has the power to transform lives.
The Evidence of Godly Love 1 John 4: 17-21 There are three words we never tire of hearing: I love you. No doubt we all have spoken those words many times in our lives, and I am sure we have been sincere, hopefully most of the time. I do fear there are times when words are empty though. We may ...read more
-
8. Abiding In Christ
Contributed on Jun 23, 2016
The ultimate goal of every believer should be Christ-likeness. The closer we walk with Him, growing in grace, the more like Him we become. In order to live victorious, fulfilling Christian lives, we must abide in Christ.
Abiding in Christ 1 John 3: 18-24 Living a Christian life requires much more than church attendance during weekly services. Being known as a Christian is literally to be known as a follower of Christ, one who strives to live life as Christ lived. Being a Christian isn’t merely ...read more
-
9. Putting Our Love Into Action
Contributed on Jun 23, 2016
Our efforts for the Lord will be futile without love. We know the Bible commands that we love one another, and yet we fail to fully heed the command. Our world needs to experience love in action, not just in word.
Putting our Love into Action 1 John 3: 11-17 Our text this evening continues to deal with the great theme of love that John has already dealt with extensively. I suppose there is no wonder John felt so impressed to emphasize love among the believers. He was blessed to walk with the Lord, ...read more
-
10. The Witness Of Christ
Contributed on Jun 24, 2016
Many are skeptical of the church and the Gospel. In times of difficulty, we must abide in the truth, rather than shying away from it. The faith we have in Christ will sustain us in times of need. We must be faithful to proclaim Jesus to others.
The Witness of Christ 1 John 5: 6-12 As I read these verses I was reminded of the difficulties of that day. John lived during the early days of the church, while she was yet in her infancy. The Gospel was being shared and many were saved, but false doctrine and heresy abounded as well. Many ...read more
-
11. A Compelling Conclusion (Part 2)
Contributed on Jun 24, 2016
Life is often difficult, even for the strongest believer. It is easy to focus on the trials we endure instead of the Lord. While we are unable to fully comprehend all our Lord is, our faith is increased as we look at Him by faith.
A Compelling Conclusion (Part 2) 1 John 5: 13-21 As we continue to consider the closing words of John in his first epistle, we are mindful of the many difficulties and obstacles the early church faced. John has dealt with false doctrine, the spirit of antichrist, personal sin, and the great ...read more
-
12. Seeing Sin For What It Is
Contributed on Jun 23, 2016
Those who are in Christ are aware of the dangers and consequences of sin, and yet most today are unwilling to confront it. While we must work with compassion, we also have an obligation to address sin and deal with it in our lives.
Seeing Sin for What it Is 1 John 3: 4-10 Dr. J. Wilbur Chapman used to tell of a Methodist preacher who often spoke on the subject of sin. He minced no words, but defined sin as “that abominable thing that God hates.” A leader in his congregation came to him on one occasion and ...read more
-
13. Abiding In The Light
Contributed on Jun 23, 2016
This text reveals Jesus as the Light of the world. His Light shines in darkness, dispelling the darkness of sin. As the Light reveals needs in our lives, we are responsible to respond to the Light.
Abiding in the Light 1 John 1: 5-10 In our opening passage, John focused on the characteristic of Christ as the Living Word, God revealed to humanity in human form. Christ came to earth as the embodiment of the eternal God. Now he focuses on Christ as the Light of the world. Each of these ...read more
-
14. Love Lifted Me
Contributed on Jun 24, 2016
Love is an essential character trait for the believer. The Lord loved us, so we are expected to love one another. This is easy preaching, but often a difficult practice. John reveals great truth regarding the love we should possess.
Love Lifted Me 1 John 4: 11-16 John 13:34-35 – A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. [35] By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. There can be no doubt that Jesus loved ...read more
-
15. Victory In Jesus
Contributed on Jun 23, 2016
Far too many believers live defeated lives. The Lord is never pleased when we surrender to our difficulties and admit defeat. Granted we can't overcome within our own ability, but with the help of the Lord, we can live victoriously.
Victory in Jesus 1 John 2: 1-6 As I studied this passage, I was reminded of the relationship John enjoyed with Christ. He was part of the inner circle, one of three that were closest to Jesus. I am convinced Jesus didn’t love those three more than the others, but they were privileged to ...read more
-
16. Character Traits Of The Believer
Contributed on Jun 23, 2016
The church is under intense scrutiny in our modern culture. Many believe it is filled with hypocrites. As part of the body of Christ, we have an obligation to bear fruit consistent with our calling, while being an effective witness among the world.
Character Traits of the Believer 1 John 2: 7-11 Luke 6:43-45 – For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. [44] For every tree is known by his own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they ...read more
-
17. The Path To Spiritual Victory
Contributed on Jun 23, 2016
John had experienced adversity in life and great spiritual challenges. He realized that a close relationship with Christ and continued growth were vital for victorious living. Many lack growth due to spiritual immaturity. Growth is key for victory.
The Path to Spiritual Victory 1 John 2: 12-17 The love and concern John has for the church is evident as we continue to read this epistle. He began by exalting Christ, reminding the believer of whom they have believed. He offered a challenge regarding our fellowship with the Lord and shared ...read more
-
18. The Collaboration Of Love And Faith
Contributed on Jun 24, 2016
Love serves as a great motivator, and our faith is motivated by love. When our love is lacking or weak, our faith will be as well. Love and faith go hand in hand, working together as we strive to serve the Lord, consistent with His will.
The Collaboration of Love and Faith 1 John 5: 1-5 Today we enter the fifth and final chapter of John’s first epistle. Consistent with previous teaching, John continues to deal with love, a subject he has spoken of at length. We have considered much concerning our love for the Lord and ...read more
-
19. Defined And Delivered In Love
Contributed on Jun 23, 2016
If only one word could be used to describe you or your church, what would it be? As believers, many Christian attributes come to mind, but love would rank at the top. The world needs to see a church defined by love.
Defined and Delivered in Love 1 John 4: 7-10 Our text this evening again deals with the continuing theme of love John has presented throughout this epistle. In fact, the remaining verses of this chapter deal with love. John was originally known as one of the “sons of thunder,” but ...read more