1 John: Brotherly Love

radiantvisalia.comBrotherly Love (1 John 2:7-14)Scripture: 1 John 2:7-8, 1 John 3:14, 1 John 2:15-17, Ephesians 2, Ephesians 4:11-16, 1 Peter 5:8, 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, 1 John 5:1, John 6:40, John 13:34-35, John 14:15-17, John 15, Philippians 2:13, 1 Corinthians 13, 1 John 2:2, Exodus 34:6-7Intro:John's letter: A message of truth and a call to love.Contradictions: love of the Father vs. love of the world.Two stories with a similar treasure, different responses: Rich young ruler (Matthew 19).Treasure hidden in a field (Matthew 13).What is our heart's response to the call to love the Father?Old and New Commandments:1 John 2:7-8: Old commandment (love one another) given by Jesus (John 13:34).Old: Love and unity expected between brothers.New: Jesus is the role model for loving others.Jesus's love: exclusive message, inclusive love. Loved disciples, friends (John 11), even enemies (Romans 5:6-8).Supreme demonstration: the cross.Are You Living in the Light?1 John 2:8: Brotherly love is true in Jesus and in you (plural).Brotherly love exists in the community of Christ.Contrasts: darkness (hate) vs. light (love).Are you living contrary to what we know love is?1 Corinthians 13: Love is patient, kind, etc.Challenge: Are we living in the light of 1 Corinthians 13?John's Pastoral Exhortation:John's tone: a loving father singing truth over a weary church.1 John 2:12-14: Little children: sins are forgiven.Young Christians: have overcome the evil one.Fathers/Mothers: know Him who is from the beginning.These are truths for all Christians.Sins are forgiven through Jesus's work.Young Christians have overcome the world through faith (John 16:33).Mature Christians know God deeply (Exodus 34:6-7).A Vision to Know God:Prioritize a vision to know God above all else.Revelation 4: The four living creatures. Eyes to see God.Unending worship.God is worthy of our complete devotion.If we could just see God more, we would love Him more.Call to Action:Examine your heart and motives.Confess your sins to God and others (James 5:16).Receive prayer for healing and restoration.Submit to Jesus as Lord.Love God and others as Christ loved us.Pursue unity in the church (Ephesians 4:1-6).Conclusion:Christian life is about loving God and loving others.Unity is found in Christ and expressed through our actions.Be a church that is known for its love and unity. Support the show*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI. Please notify us if you find any errors.