The Power of Knowing, Part 1
1. We can know that we have the life of eternity in us, v. 13
Three realities Christians should experience...
joy- “to make our joy complete
holiness- “so that you will not sin”
certainty- “so that you make know that you have eternal life”
Three main reasons Christians do not experience certainty are…
uncertainty/doubt about their conversion experience
ongoing baggage
lack of biblical knowledge and experience
2. We can know that God answers our prayers, v. 14-17
“And this is the confidence we have towards him…”
Confidence is mentioned in relation to three realities…
a) the second coming
b) the Judgement
c) prayer
Confidence is a freedom in speaking, unreservedness in speech; a free and fearless confidence, cheerful courage, boldness, assurance.
Questions from the text…
a) Does that mean we get whatever we want?
b) Why does it take so long?
c) What is the sin unto death?
1) sin not leading to death- this is any sin that a Christian commits
“Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
-Galatians 6:1-2
2) sin that leads to death- this is the sin of the false teachers/secessionists
“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
-John 14:6
“And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
-Acts 4:12
“ For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time.”
-I Timothy 2:5-6
Biblical examples of sin unto death which results in physical death…
a) Numbers 25- high minded disregard for God’s commands
b) Acts 5- lying to the Holy Spirit
Mental worship…
Do you believe God tolerates you or enjoys you?
Confidence was mentioned three times in I John in reference to the second coming, in reference to the Judgement and in reference to prayer. Do you have confidence in relation to these realities?
How has your relationship to sin changed since you became a Christian?
What is one question you want to ask as a result of today?
Do people who struggle with sin find you helpful?