Children of God - Part 1

This is the fifth sermon in a series of messages covering the New Testament book of First John. This sermon covers the first nine verses of chapter three and describes the awesome privilege of being a child of God as well as several characteristics of being a child of God. A video recording of the worship service in which this sermon was preached may be viewed by clicking here.

1 John 3:1 (NKJV)  Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him.

Introduction:

A number of years ago I read an account that was presumed to be a true story.

A soldier in the Greek army under the command of Alexander the Great was brought before the emperor to stand trial for conduct unbecoming to a soldier. During the proceedings the great emperor asked the soldier his name. 

The soldier stated very quietly, “Alexander, sir.”

Alexander the Great responded in a louder tone of voice, “Soldier, what is your name?” 

The soldier stated again somewhat louder, “Alexander, sir.”

The emperor repeated the question another time in a rage, “Soldier, what is your name?” 

The solder again replied, “Alexander sir.”

Immediately the emperor demanded, “Soldier, either change your conduct or change your name!”

As you may have noticed, the title of my message today is, “Children of God – Part 1.”

We’re doing a study through the first letter of the Apostle John and today we’re ready to look at chapter 3. We are going to take two sermons to cover this chapter. Today, we will consider verses 1-9, and the next time (July 12) we will consider verses 10-24. As we focus on verses 1-9, John appears to introduce the subject of being children of God with four brief statements in verses 1-3, then in verses 4-9 he expounds on one of those statements by addressing the matter of sin.

I.              Being a child of God is an awesome privilege. (1a)

This chapter clearly continues developing the subject being discussed at the end of chapter 2.

1 John 2:29 (NKJV)  If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone who practices righteousness is born of Him.

(John Stott, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries) The mention of being ‘born of him’ leads John to an outburst of wonder at God’s love in making us his children (tekna, derived from tekein, ‘to beget’)…

“Behold” – The word “behold” always implies astonishment. (Vic Reasoner, John & Jude: A Fundamental Wesleyan Commentary)

“manner” – literally means “what country.” (Reasoner & Stott) This kind of love is so rare, where is it from?

“bestowed” – lavished; it is not earned, but graciously afforded to us.

“Children of God” – not only “called” His children, but we have become His children with His nature.

II.             Children of God experience rejection. (1b)

Compare: John 1:11 (NKJV)  He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him.

“Know” – not just acknowledgment but to approve and know by experience.

John 15:18-20 (NKJV) ¹⁸  "If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. ¹⁹  If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. ²⁰  Remember the word that I said to you, 'A servant is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also.

III.           Children of God have hope for the future. (2)

As children of God who are born of God and have received the Spirit of God, the question is not just who we are now, but what will we be?

“revealed” – manifested,

(Stott, TNTC) What we are does not now appear to the world; what we shall be does not yet appear to us.

But, we are not completely ignorant. We know this much – we shall be like Him.

Philippians 3:21 (NKJV)  who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.

IV.           Children of God strive for holiness. (3)

(Tom Thatcher, Expositor's Bible Commentary, Revised) While childhood has benefits, it also carries responsibilities. These are summarized, again in eschatological terms, at v.3. All those who hope to see Jesus must “purify” themselves because Jesus is “pure.”

(Reasoner) Every major passage about the return of Christ leaves unanswered questions and ends with an exhortation to holy living…. A sinner cannot purify himself any more than a leopard can change his spots (Jer. 13:23). When we are born again, the Holy Spirit begins this process of sanctification… But after we are initially cleansed by the Spirit, we maintain and grow in purity by remaining in Christ and walking in the light (1:7).

It is a natural consequence of being truly/genuinely born again to desire compatibility with Christ and His holy nature. It is natural to have a passion and a desire to be clean, pure and holy.

V.             Holiness encounters the problem of sin. (4-9)

The pursuit of holiness and purity necessarily requires us to deal with sin.

A.    Sin is defined as rebellion. (4)

There are many places in the Bible that provide definitions of sin in it various expressions and manifestations.

(Vic Reasoner provides 7 different references that provide a definition of sin.)

Here, John defines sin as “a transgression of the law,” or “lawlessness,” as in many recent translations.

Same Greek word is used for the KJV words, “committeth” and “transgresseth.” It is the word ποιέω (poiéō), most commonly translated “do” or “make.”

Lit. – “whoever does sin, does ‘anti-law’ (lawlessness), for sin is ‘anti-law.’

Willful intent is implied. It is rebellion at heart; a defiance against God’s authority and will. Sin, at its core, is an insistence to have my own way rather than God’s way. It is the most enticing suggestion the adversary (Devil) uses against us. Ultimately, every temptation is just like it was for Eve, “You don’t have to obey/ do it God’s way. You can do it your own way.” (Which is NOT really my own way – it’s the Devil’s way.)

B.    Sin has been effectively addressed. (5, 8b)

Jesus Christ, the perfect Son of God was manifested/ revealed for the specific purpose of taking away sin and destroying the works of the Devil.

C.    Sin and righteousness reveal our relations. (6-9)

Those who do righteousness, do so because they “abide in Him” (v. 6a) and they are “born of God” (v. 9).

Those who do sin, do so because they do not even “know” God (6b) and are “of the Devil” (v. 8).

Conclusion:

Today, we have been talking about what it means to be a child of God.

First of all, it is a wonderful privilege that is so awesome and amazing. What manner of love! That we should be called the children of God!

Secondly, it means we don’t worry about being rejected and unknown by the world, because that is exactly what the world thought about and did to Jesus.

Thirdly, it means we have a hope that one of these days we will be completely transformed so that we are just like him. It will not only mean with a glorified, resurrection body, but we will be perfect!

Finally, it means we have been delivered from the life and practice of sin and are striving to live a life of righteousness and holiness. By the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, we have been divorced from our old father, the Devil, and now we are the children of God, exhibiting a life that brings glory to Him.

Hallelujah!

There are a lot of people who get confused about what seems to be a contradiction between the words John wrote in chapter one compared to what he wrote here in chapter three. In chapter one he proclaims that anyone who says they have no sin or have not sinned is deceived and they make God into a liar. It would seem that he is reinforcing the mantra we have heard from some – “everyone sins everyday in word, thought and deed.” But here, John clearly condemns the practice of sin and says that the person who does sin is of the Devil, not a child of God. The child of God does not sin.

Some people think it is a sign of humility and authenticity to say they sin every day. They imply that it is the epitome of pride to claim to live above sin.

In chapter one, John is addressing those who have either sanitized sin to the point that there is nothing wrong in their minds anymore, or they have sanitized their own opinion of themselves until they think they’re perfect. Both are wrong! We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.

But here in chapter three, John is addressing the very essence of sin – anti-law, rebellion, lawless spirit and attitude. Anyone who willfully and deliberately chooses to commit sin is of the Devil. It’s important to make a distinction between these two emphases. However, Jesus was manifested to the world so that he might take away sin and destroy the works of the Devil. So it is possible to be delivered from that sinful heart and sinful life.

We are called to be God’s people, so let’s claim the grace that Jesus has provided and live like children of God!

Closing Song: We Are Called to Be God’s People

What Dad Said

This is a sermon that was given on Father's Day. It is based on a passage of Scripture found in Psalms 44:1-8. The sermon is introduced by a list of common sayings we have heard from our earthly fathers. It continues to examine the truths and principles in this passage that were passed on from the fathers. A video recording of the entire worship service in which this message was preached can be viewed here.

Written Excerpts:

Introduction:

I suppose that everyone one of us could easily share some of the common sayings our dads repeated when we were growing up.

Many years ago I asked a Sunday school class of teens to write common phrases or statements they heard from their dads:

1. Please don’t make me destroy you tonight!
2. Hurt didn’t it? Maybe you’ll think twice the next time.
3. I could have never gotten away with that when I was a kid.
4. Get moving or I’ll make you move.
5. Think how badly other kids have it.
6. New cars cost money.
7. This isn’t a democracy. It’s a benevolent dictatorship.
8. Misery builds character.
9. Spinach builds character.
10. Washing the car builds character!
11. I’m not lost. We’re just taking this road to see where it goes!
12. Don’t make me pull this car over.
13. This hurts me more than it hurts you.

A few from my own dad (in addition to some of those above):

1.  (When anyone asked how he was) “I’m sick in bed on two chairs.” Or, “I feel worse all over more than anyplace else.”
2. Does the boss know you quit?
3. Don’t quit just because I did. (Said to anyone who had stopped eating before him.)
4. If I was behind him, I bet he would move faster. (I heard this when my brother was sent after something. I’m sure my brother heard the same thing when I was sent to get something.)
5. Go ask your mother. (Usually said after mom had already said, “Go ask your Dad.”)

It is rather humorous when we recall some of the things that our fathers say over the years. On the other hand, I assume that most of us here today remember words of sound advice or general principles for life that we’ve learned from our fathers as well. The majority of those things we remember undoubtedly provided good counsel and guidance for life as we applied them to the situations we encountered.

I assume that most of you, like me, found the older you got, the more you valued the opinion and views of your father. (Not usually true for “young whippersnappers” anxious to get away from home and prove “I can make it just fine on my own.”)

Our Scripture for today uses a phrase in verse one that provides the basis for this sermon, “Our fathers have told us…” It seems apparent that much of the content in this Psalm comes as a result of what had been spoken by the fathers. It struck me that this Psalm reveals the importance of a father’s teaching. The convictions expressed by the author had been formed by the diligent instruction from the fathers.

For a little while today, I want to speak to you on the subject, “What dad said.”

I.              Background of the Psalm

The message today is focusing primarily on the first 8 verses. However, I want to provide some relevant information about the whole Psalm so that we can see the larger picture the author is trying to “paint.” In either case, the fact of the matter is the children/descendants can experience the miraculous power of God in their lives just like the fathers did. Reminds me of the words of Elisha, “Where is the God of Elijah?”

Most, if not all, commentaries describe this Psalm as a “lament.”

(Tremper Longman, III, Tyndale OT Commentaries) If hymns are songs of orientation, laments are songs of disorientation, sung by those who are in distress. Psalm 69 is a typical lament, opening with an invocation and plea to God for help (v. 1, with further pleas in vv. 13-18). The composer continues by complaining about the circumstances of his life (vv. 1-4, 7-12, 19-21)…. Many psalms, such as Psalm 69 (see vv. 5-6), also contain a confession of sin. Others (see Ps. 26) have rather a protestation of innocence. Many laments also include imprecations (69:22-28), or curses, against the enemy who has brought or intensified the psalmist’s distress (see below). Finally, and surprisingly, most laments (though not all, see Pss 88 and 143) end not in anguish, but with an expression of joy or a statement of confidence (69:30-36). In this way, the lament does not just express the distress of the person who suffers, but also begins to minister to that person by moving them towards a more positive attitude towards God and life….

So this Psalm is a lament that has several parts. Here is a possible outline for the Psalm:

A. Victory over past enemies. (1-3)

B. Confession of present confidence. (4-8)

C. Reality of defeat and disgrace. (9-16)

D. Claim of innocence. (vv. 17-22)

E. Prayer for deliverance. (vv. 23-26)

It is uncertain what time period this Psalm is describing.

vv. 9-16 describe a time when the people of God had suffered defeat and humiliation. Some would say it applies to the Babylonian captivity.

vv. 17-22 however, plainly declare that they have not forsaken the covenant of the Lord, which definitely was not the case leading up to the exile into Babylon.

It is called a Psalm of the sons of Korah – (During Kings David’s reign or after.)

It could be a reference to a specific battle when Israel had suffered defeat. Some say it might represent a time of testing upon the nation to test their commitment to the Lord. (Is this a national testing similar to what Job went through as an individual?)

The point is, it’s hard to pinpoint the exact situation that was taking place and the reason(s) why God seems to be absent when His people needed Him. But, it is a common experience for individuals (and nations) to go through periods when it seems that God has abandoned them. What do we do then?

Job said, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him.” (Job 13:15)

In light of all that is described here, what are some of the things these people had heard from the fathers?

II.             What the Fathers Said

As I stated earlier, I am primarily going to be looking at verses 1-8 today. As we talk about the things the people heard from the fathers, I need to point out that there is only one matter that is specifically mentioned by the fathers. That is the possession of the Promised Land. However, there are several other truths declared by the author which I think we can safely assume were learned from the fathers as well.

In verses 3-8, the author declares several truths. He may have learned these truths on his own, but it is also likely he heard them from natural/spiritual fathers or elders.

A. God provided miracles and wonders for them. (vv. 1-2)

Psalm 44:1-2 ^(NKJV) We have heard with our ears, O God, Our fathers have told us, The deeds You did in their days, In days of old: ² You drove out the nations with Your hand, But them You planted; You afflicted the peoples, and cast them out.

I have said many times that whenever writers in the OT wanted to give an example of the mighty power of God, they would refer back to the Exodus. In this case, the specific words used do not refer to the deliverance from Egypt, but on the miraculous victories over the nations in Canaan. God drove out the pagan nations by giving victory to the Israelites in their military conquests.

Joshua 24:18a ^(NKJV)  And the LORD drove out from before us all the people, including the Amorites who dwelt in the land….

Earlier in the book of Joshua and in the book of Judges we read that the Israelites did NOT drive out all of the Canaanites. But, the ones they did drive out, were driven out because God provided the victory.

The only way the sons of Korah knew what God had done was because their fathers had passed down the reports and stories of the mighty works of God.

What mighty works of God are we passing on to our children?

B. It was provided by God’s grace, not their own ability/merit. (v. 3)

Psalm 44:3 ^(NKJV) For they did not gain possession of the land by their own sword, Nor did their own arm save them; But it was Your right hand, Your arm, and the light of Your countenance, Because You favored them.

The fathers also apparently emphasized the fact that the reason God gave them such astounding victories was because He “favored them.” It had nothing to do with their strength, their importance, or anything like that – it was all because of God’s amazing grace.

Read: Joshua 24:1-13 (especially emphasize verse 12)

Deuteronomy 9:4 ^(NKJV)  Do not think in your heart, after the LORD your God has cast them out before you, saying, 'Because of my righteousness the LORD has brought me in to possess this land'; but it is because of the wickedness of these nations that the LORD is driving them out from before you.

Godly fathers will emphasize to their children and grandchildren that every accomplishment, small or great, has been by God’s grace alone.

C. God is our God too. (v. 4)

Psalm 44:4 ^(NKJV) You are my King, O God; Command victories for Jacob. [or, “who commands victories for Jacob.]

The Psalmist(s) declare that God is MY King. He is not referred to as “our father’s King/God” but mine! This implies to me that the fathers successfully instilled in the hearts of the children that they too could know God and have Him as their own King.

“Command victories for Jacob” – a plea for THEIR God/King to intervene for them like He had done in the past.

Common saying – “God doesn’t have any grandchildren.”

D. We can experience God’s intervention now. (vv. 5-7)

Psalm 44:5-7 ^(NKJV) Through You we will push down our enemies; Through Your name we will trample those who rise up against us. ⁶ For I will not trust in my bow, nor shall my sword save me. ⁷ But You have saved us from our enemies, and have put to shame those who hated us.

Language scholars say that the verbs in these verses are actually in the present tense. They could be understood as current action – “(now) we push down our enemies…” Or, they can be understood as future conditions – we will…

Reminds me of the words of Elisha, “Where is the God of Elijah?”

E. God is worthy of our praise. (v. 8)

Psalm 44:8 ^(NKJV) In God we boast all day long, and praise Your name forever. Selah

This stanza ends with a clear note of praise – bragging on God. Again, I am concluding that the need for giving God praise is something that was taught and “drilled” into them by their fathers.

Conclusion:

Today we have been talking about the kinds of things that were passed on from the fathers to the younger generations. They not only reported the mighty, miraculous works of God in the past, but they also instilled several important life principles that would provide solid guidance for their lives.

It certainly appears that these “Sons of Korah” had learned several important lessons and they undoubtedly were passed on to them by their forefathers. The question for us is this, “What valuable stories of victory and worthwhile principles for life are we instilling into our children?”

We are all children of our heavenly Father. Let us give that legacy to our children and grandchildren.

Closing Song: Children of the Heavenly Father

Growing in Christ

This sermon is the fourth in a series of messages through the book of First John. This message covers 1 John 2:12-29 and speaks about the theme of spiritual maturity. In this passage, John addresses believers who are in various stages of spiritual development and tells them what spiritual maturity will enable them to do. He also provides the key or secret for growing in their knowledge and understanding of Christ. A video recording of the entire worship service can be viewed here.

1 John 2:28 ^(NKJV) And now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming.

Introduction:

In “The Last Days Newsletter,” Leonard Ravenhill tells about a group of tourists visiting a picturesque village who walked by an old man sitting beside a fence. In a rather patronizing way, one tourist asked, "Were any great men born in this village?"

The old man replied, "Nope, only babies."…. – Wm. Shereos, (www.sermonillustrations.com)

This witty response by the old villager emphasizes a couple of important truths:  Every “great person” started out as a baby. “Greatness” comes only after years of growth.

(Today's Best Illustrations) Maturity is pressing toward the mark; immaturity is complacency and self-satisfaction. — Roberta Hestenes in Leadership, Vol. 9, no. 4.

Today we are looking into God’s Word to discover some things the Apostle John has to say relating to the growth and maturity of believers. I stated at the beginning of this series of messages I didn’t want to get bogged down in too many details in these chapters so it wouldn’t take forever to get through it. Therefore, I admit that we will be not be digging as deeply into some of these verses as some might wish, but I want to cover the main points of this chapter.

As I read and re-read the remaining verses of chapter two (vv. 12-29), I concluded that John is explaining to his audience how spiritual growth impacts the life of a believer. Let us consider the fact of spiritual growth, some effects of spiritual growth, and the secret of spiritual growth.

I.              The Fact of Spiritual Growth (vv. 12-14)

In these verses John addresses three different groups of people – children, young men, and fathers. These do not necessarily represent ages of the individuals, but their level of spiritual maturity – new Christians, older Christians, and very mature Christians.

John is acknowledging the fact that there are different levels of spiritual maturity among his readers. It has always been that way and it will always be that way. John uses repetition for emphasis, and this is what he says to the three categories of believers:

Little Children – (Young/New Christians)

·         You are forgiven

·         You know the Father

When a believer is first saved and born again, he/she is very uninformed about what all is involved with walking with the Lord. They don’t yet know the amount of fortitude and grace it is going to take to keep victorious and to let Christ continue transforming them into His image.

But they do know that they have been forgiven. The condemnation and guilt are lifted, and they have come to know God as a loving Father rather than a righteous Judge.

Young Men – (More experienced Christians)

·         You are strong

·         The Word of God abides in you

·         You have overcome the wicked one

Those believers who have been walking with God for awhile and have gained some experience in the life of faith and the battles of spiritual warfare fit the second category John mentions. It would seem John is saying that because God’s Word abides in you, you are therefore strong/stalwart and have victoriously fought the devil (wicked one).

These people are still in the “heat of the battle” spiritually speaking. They’re not novices.

Fathers – (Most mature Christians)

·         You have known Him who is from the beginning

(Stott, TNTC) The fathers have progressed into a deep communion with God…  the fathers have come to know him as him who is from the beginning, which is probably a reference… to the immutable, eternal God who does not change (as humans change) with advancing years, but who is forever the same.

(Today's Best Illustrations) When I turned 30, I wanted to build a large church. At 40 I wanted to learn how to preach. But at 50 I want to know God deeply. — Truman Dollar in Fundamentalist Journal (Nov. 1987).

These declarations in vv. 12-14 remind us that spiritual growth is expected, normal and a real part of Christian life. Spiritual “babies” should not become discouraged and frustrated because they’re not yet “soldiers.” And neither babies nor soldiers should be discouraged because they are not yet “fathers.”

II.             The Effects of Spiritual Growth (vv. 15-23)

There are many skills and benefits that can only come from consistent spiritual growth. Two are mentioned here by John. Before we look at these, I want to share a quote from C.S. Lewis that I found.

(Today's Best Illustrations) It may be hard for an egg to turn into a bird: [but] it would be a jolly sight harder for it to learn to fly while remaining an egg…. — C.S. Lewis quoted in Good News (May/June 1995).

A. Spiritual growth produces separation from the world. (vv. 15-17)

“love not the world/things of the world”

What is “the world?” – The part of the world that is in rebellion against God.

“Lust of the flesh” – (Lenski NT Commentary) This is the sinful desire springing from the flesh or depraved nature which seeks sinful gratification. (Reasoner) Hedonism.

“Lust of the eyes” – (Stott, TNTC) … Achan’s covetous sight among the spoil of a ‘beautiful robe from Babylonia’, and David’s lustful looking after Bathsheba as she bathed, are obvious examples (Gen. 3:6; Josh. 7:21; 2 Sam. 11:2). (Reasoner) Materialism.

“Pride of life” – (Stott, TNTC) Bragging over what one has, who he is and what he does. (Reasoner) Egotism.

(Stott, TNTC) Findlay summarizes John’s three as ‘two lusts and one vaunt, two … arising from our needs and one from our possessions—unholy desire for things one has not, and unholy pride in things one has’.

All three were represented in the temptation of Eve (good for food; pleasing to the eye; desirable to make one wise). All three were represented in the temptation of Jesus. (Lust of the flesh – bread; lust of the eyes – kingdoms of the world; pride of life – throw yourself down.)

These are incompatible and in opposition to one’s love for the Father. The love of the world and the things of the world will destroy our spiritual growth. The more one grows in spiritual maturity, the less attraction there is to the ungodly aspects of this world.

B. Spiritual growth produces discernment against evil and error. (vv. 16-23)

Hebrews 5:14 But strong meat belongs to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

“last hour” – (Reasoner) … means hour, season, time or period.

“Antichrist” – John is the only writer in Scripture to use this term. He uses it five times. In some Gk. manuscripts, the first use of this word (v.18) has a definite article “the” and in other manuscripts it is not there. Looking at all John has to say here, it seems he is clearly referring to the false teachers/heretics.

As we have explained in previous messages, these heretical teachers did not believe that God the Son has literally come in the flesh. The Son of God (Christ/Anointed One) was something/ someone other than Jesus of Nazareth. 

Without taking the time to discuss whether “antichrist” is a person or a spirit/attitude of heresy, I just want to point out that John clearly indicates that these Christians needed to be aware of it and avoid it.

According to the overall message of Scripture, this seems to be a skill that is gained through spiritual growth. Those who refuse to diligently seek God’s truth and follow His Word, are liable to all kinds of pleasant-sounding errors peddled by false teachers.

III.           The Secret of Spiritual Growth (vv. 24-29)

The secret of spiritual growth can be summarized in one word, “Abide.”

“abide” – lit. remain.

(Stott, TNTC) If they are to be guarded against error, two things must ‘remain’ [abide] in them, first the message which ‘you have heard from the beginning’ (24) and secondly ‘the anointing you received from him’ (27).

((Lenski NTC) The light, truth, Word, commandment, teaching heard by the readers are the divine means for uniting them with the Father and the Son, and the continuance of this union depends on the fact that what they have heard ever continues to remain in them. The tendency is to “let things slip.” So, by the ever-present help of the Holy Spirit we must make them remain.

Abiding is a two-way condition or state. The believer “abides in the Son/Him” (vv. 24, 27-28). The Word and the anointing [of the Holy Spirit] abide in the believer. (vv. 24, 27)

Conclusion:

One writer stated the way we abide in Him is through the Word and the sacrament. Or, we might say, the "means of grace."

Today we are sharing the sacrament of communion, which is a means of grace initiated by Christ to help us keep connected to Him and remember what He accomplished for our salvation.

Before we share communion, let us sing hymn Blessed Redeemer.

Jesus Is Our Advocate

A video recording of the entire worship service in which this message was delivered can be viewed on YouTube here.

This is a sermon that was given on May 31, 2020. It is the third sermon in a series of messages through the New Testament book of First John. This message is based on 1 Jn. 2:1-11 and focuses on the implications of the fact that Jesus Christ is our Advocate.

Written Excerpts:

Introduction:

Today is Pentecost Sunday on the church liturgical calendar. It represents the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the NT believers. The coming of the Spirit in this way was predicted by Jesus while teaching His disciples. Jesus used a term to describe the Spirit – “Another Comforter/ helper.” John 14:16 ^(NKJV) And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever--

“comforter” – lit. one called alongside [to help]. The kind of help that the Spirit would provide included: guide into truth, bring to mind the things of Christ, convict of sin, righteousness and judgment, testify of Christ, glorify Christ, and enables believers to do greater works than Christ. Jesus also said that the Spirit is the one who enables anyone to approach the Father. “No one comes to the Father, except the Spirit draw him.” I thank God for the abiding presence of His Spirit and every aspect of His ministry to each believer yet today.

Today, as we move on into the second chapter of 1^st John, we notice that John specifically tells us that Jesus is our “advocate.” All the translations I checked use the word “advocate” in this verse. However, the Greek word for “advocate” is παράκλητον (paraclete), which is the same Gk. word used by Jesus in John 14:16 that is translated "comforter" or "helper." The reason Jesus told his disciples that he would send “another” comforter is because Jesus is also a “helper/comforter” and the Spirit would be just like Him.

Now John explains to us the “helper” role that Jesus plays for us. This word only appears in John’s gospel in reference to the Holy Spirit and here in John’s epistle in reference to Jesus.

(A.T. Robertson, Word Pictures in the New Testament) The Holy Spirit is God's Advocate on earth with men, while Christ is man's Advocate with the Father (the idea, [is also expressed], in … Hebrews 7:25).

Hebrews 7:25 ^(NKJV) Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.

With the help of the Holy Spirit, who descended on the Day of Pentecost, I want to talk to you today about

I.              The Ministry of the Advocate (vv. 1-2)

In the first two verses of this chapter John highlights the specific role of Jesus Christ as our advocate.

A. His ministry is explained with tenderness.

“My little children” – term of endearment. Perhaps used to emphasize the writer’s advanced age. Also used to emphasize the writer’s relationship with them and his care for them like a father to his children. (or a grandfather to grandchildren).

John has used and will use some pretty strong language meant for the false teachers, but for the believing Christians, he wants them to know his love and concern for them.

B. His ministry provides hope and encouragement.

Victory over sin is expected. “I write unto you that you sin not…”

The false teaching that was gaining in popularity did not offer any hope for victory over sin. As we noted in last Sunday’s message, the Gnostics believed that the sins of the body did not corrupt the spirit in any way, so why even bother trying to live above sin? Just indulge your fleshly desires, it doesn’t really matter. But, most people understand that indulging our desires usually ends up making us slaves to them. We find we can’t help ourselves. John’s message is a different message. “I’m writing this letter to you so that you do not sin.”

John 5:14 ^(NKJV) Afterward Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, "See, you have been made well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you."

John believed in the hope of the gospel. He believed in the remedy for sin, not just in a judicial sense, but in a practical way as well.

(F.F. Bruce) Sin, indeed, is so thoroughly uncharacteristic of the Christian life that a life which is marked by sin cannot be called Christian…

A relapse into sin is possible. “If any man sin…”

The tense of the verb here does not indicate a habitual pattern or continuous condition, but a momentary lapse into sin.

Sinful relapse is not hopeless. “we have an advocate…”

“advocate” – paraclete; one called alongside [to help].

(Vic Reasoner) … every true Christian has two helpers. Every true Christian is indwelt by the Holy Spirit and he is present to regenerate us, empower us, and assure us that God has forgiven us and that he accepts us. He keeps us from sin.

But we also have another helper who intercedes for us at the right hand of God. Jesus Christ has finished his atoning work on the cross as the sacrifice for our sins, but he continues his legal work as our lawyer pleading our case.

I read in some sources that there are those who would understand this phrase to mean that the loving Christ of the NT is working hard to convince the angry God of the OT to offer forgiveness. But remember. The Bible is very clear – the God of the OT is the same one who sent His son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved. (John 3:17)

C. His ministry is sufficient.

He is morally qualified. “Jesus Christ the righteous.”

“the righteous” – the same basic Greek word as John used in 1:9 concerning God – faithful and “just.”

Jesus Christ is morally qualified to be a sacrifice for the sins of the world because He is without sin – He is perfectly righteous.

His sacrifice is satisfactory. “He himself is the propitiation for our sins…”

“propitiation” – a Gk. word that means to satisfy the judgment and wrath of deity. It is sometimes translated “atoning sacrifice.”

Some scholars believed the word needed to be translated as “atoning sacrifice” because they believed the emphasis needed to be directed away from the aspect of satisfying the wrath of God to the aspect of covering of our sins. However, both aspects need to remain in focus. The Bible makes it clear that God’s “wrath abides on all sin as a holy antagonism to all evil.” (Stott, TNTC)

I am reminded of the hymn: Arise, My Soul, Arise. The words of this hymn vividly describe the effectiveness of Christ's sacrifice for us.

His sacrifice is universally sufficient. “… and not for ours only but also for the whole world.”

There are Christian theologians who argue that the atoning work of Jesus Christ is only for the elect (i.e. the ones God chose to be saved). But John makes it pretty clear here that the work of Christ is for the sins of the whole world. Every single person can be assured of salvation if they come in humble confession and put their full trust in the atonement of Jesus Christ.

(Stott, TNTC) – Thus, the Father’s provision for the sinning Christian is in his Son, who possesses a threefold qualification: his righteous character, his propitiatory death and his heavenly advocacy. Each depends on the others. He could not be our advocate in heaven today if he had not died to be the propitiation for our sins; and his propitiation would not have been effective if in his life and character he had not been Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.

II.             Our Relationship with the Advocate (vv. 3-11)

After describing our Advocate’s ministry of atonement and interceding with the Father, John continues to explain how that relates to us and our behavior or conduct.

(Stott, TNTC) In the [first chapter John] has recorded three false claims of the heretics, each introduced by the phrase ‘if we claim’. He now expresses two right and positive assurances which the true Christian may have, introduced by the formula … ‘by this we know that’ They occur in verse 3 … and verse 5b …. Each of these statements … is followed by an application in the third person singular, ho legōn, literally ‘he who says’ (4, 6). [and] in verse 9….

A. Our relationship is described as knowing Him.

v. 3 “by this” – probably referring to what follows next.

“Know that we know Him” – Greek ginosko, means to “come to know” or “to perceive.” Distinct from another Gk. word that means to know as a “self-evident fact.” Implies knowledge by experience. (There’s a difference between knowing about him vs. knowing him.)

True knowledge inspires obedience to Him.

1 John 2:4-5 ^{(NKJV) 4} He who says, "I know Him," and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. ⁵ But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him.

B. Our relationship is described as abiding in Him.

1 John 2:5b ^(NKJV) … By this we know that we are in Him. These two words again, probably are referring to what comes next.

(Tom Thatcher, Expositor's Bible Commentary, Revised) While v.3 focused on the need to obey Jesus’ teaching, v.6 emphasizes the need to live by his example….The Father abides in Jesus, empowering his work (Jn. 14:10), and will also abide in those who love Jesus and obey his teaching (14:23). The disciples, in turn, must abide in Jesus, apparently meaning that they must live by his word in order to maintain their relationship with him. It is through this process of mutual indwelling that Jesus gives believers life and power to accomplish his work (15:4-9).

Abiding in Him inspires imitation of Him.

1 John 2:6 ^(NKJV) He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.

It is not enough to merely make sure we are obeying His commands, but we need to live as He live; imitate His conduct and attitudes.

C. Our relationship is described as abiding in the light.

Old/New Commandment: Old in the sense that they have heard it and known it from the time they heard and believed the gospel. But it is new in the sense that now, since they are abiding in Christ and He is in them, darkness is becoming light. Error is dying and truth is living. Evil is changing to the good. (Lenski)

This will have an effect – love for brothers and sisters.

Abiding in the light inspires love for others.

1 John 2:9-11 ^{(NKJV) 9} He who says he is in the light, and hates his brother, is in darkness until now. ¹⁰ He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him. ¹¹ But he who hates his brother is in darkness and walks in darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.

Various commentaries have mentioned the fact that John frequently repeats themes that he has already mentioned. John talked about being in light or in darkness in the first chapter. Now, he is emphasizing that theme again.

Light = truth, right, good        Darkness = error, wrong, evil

Conclusion:

Today we have been reminded of the expectation for victorious Christian living over sin because of the intercessory and atoning ministry of Jesus Christ.

We have also been reminded that what Jesus has accomplished for us makes a difference in us.

The result shows up in our striving to follow Jesus’ example and “walk as He walked.” And, it shows up in our love for and treatment of others around us.

I challenge each of us today to make a renewed commitment and effort to live our lives each day as Jesus would have us live.

WWJD – based on the book, In His Steps, by Charles Sheldon, and based on v. 6 “ought to walk just as He walked.”

Not always easy to determine, but we must strive to do so.

Let us close the service by singing the hymn: I’ll Live for Him