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Contributed by Kenneth Trent on Nov 23, 2002 (message contributor)
Summary: John points out that those who were truly children of God would evidence that by continuing in serving God and in fellowship with the church.
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"They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us; but they went out that they might be made manifest, that none of them were of us." I John 2:19.
I. CONTINUE IN THE FAITH OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST!
"And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight---if indeed you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under heaven, of which I, Paul, became a minister." Colossians 1:21-23.
Our faith must be grounded: settled and firmly entrenched.
Our faith must be steadfast: without wavering and without compromise.
Our faith must be moved away from the hope of the gospel: assurance.
II. CONTINUE IN HIS GRACE!
“Now when the congregation had broken up, many of the Jews and devout proselytes followed Paul and Barnabus, who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.” Acts 13:43.
“Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” II Peter 3:17-18.
“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.” Titus 2:11.
God’s grace is absolutely free: not based on worth or merit.
God’s grace knows no boundaries or borders: “appeared to all men.”
God’s grace is purposeful: “that brings salvation.” Titus 2:11
III. CONTINUE IN HIS LOVE!
“As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; continue [abide] in My love.” John 15:9.
“Let brotherly love continue.” Hebrews 13:1.
The love of Christ was sacrificial: “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13.
The love of Christ’s love was without prejudice: “And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Revelation 22:17.
“For God so loved the world…” John 3:16.
The love of Christ was openly manifested: “has appeared to all men.”
