1 John 1:1-3 Fellowship: Both Vertical and Horizontal

Bulletin for Sunday 4/23/17 1 John 1:1-3 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life— 2 the life was made manifest, and we have seen it, and testify to it and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was made manifest to us— 3 that which we have seen and heard we proclaim also to you, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ.   Sermon Notes Ponder anew what the Almighty will do, if with His love He befriend thee. The Life which was made manifest, that which was from the beginning, which was with the Father, is proclaimed with the result that we have fellowship with God and Jesus. 1 John 1:1-3 is perhaps one of the most pregnant passages in all the Scriptures; the implications are enormous. Here we are given a glimpse into the nature of the Living Word: "It" is revealed as a "Person," who is revealed and incarnate for the express purpose of creating fellowship and friendship. Notice as we sing, themes such as unity, fellowship, brotherhood, union, dwelling, joining in love, and friendship will come into relief. Notice also that these themes accompany the proclamation of, or praise given to the Father, Christ, or the Holy Spirit. Today we want to "see, touch, and handle" the Word of Life! —Nathan Key Words: Beginning, Heard, Seen, Touched, Life, Eternal, Manifest, Fellowship Keystone Verse: That you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed, our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ. (1 John 1:3)