Tag: the tests of 1 John

Recognizing the Children of God

Cary Cox, from 1 John 5:1-5. What does a real, born-again, child of God look like? John brings all his tests and evidences together to show us a complete picture of the genuine Christian. Someone who has experienced the new birth will believe the truth about Jesus, will love God and his people, and will obey the commands of Scripture. And they will experience the victory of Jesus over this sinful world!

God is Greater than Our Heart

Cary Cox, from 1 John 3:19-24. What do we do when our heart condemns us? When we wrestle with shame and guilt and fear and baggage? We take it to God! John shows us how to work through our issues so we can have confidence in God’s presence. We look at the evidence of God’s grace in our lives. But above all, we look to God himself, and preach his truth to our hearts. God’s word trumps the feelings and opinions of our unreliable heart.

The Test of Doctrine Part 1

Cary Cox, from 1 John 2:18-27. John introduces another test to help us know who is a true believer and who is fake. The test of doctrine means that true believers will hold to the true, apostolic gospel. They will stand on the word of God, in the true church. John says that antichrists are already here, warring against the church and denying God’s word.

The Test of Love

Cary Cox, from 1 John 2:7-11. John applies the test of love to determine if one is a true Christian. With Jesus’ coming into the earth, the light has exploded into this dark world, and is slowly spreading through his people. God’s light of love is shown in Christ, and in his church, as we love our brothers and sisters! Those who fail to selflessly consider their fellow believers show themselves to be false Christians.

The Test of Obedience

Cary Cox, from 1 John 2:3-6. There is such a thing as a fake Christian. How can we know if we are genuine? John gives us the test of obedience. A lifestyle of obedience is evidence that we know God. An attitude of obedience toward the Bible shows we love God. Becoming more like Jesus shows we are in Christ.