Bible Study - 1 John 3:1-24

"We are not made righteous by doing righteous deeds; but when we have been made righteous, we do righteous deeds."  - Martin Luther

Hello, and welcome to the third installment of our Bible study series! In this message we shall examine 1 John 3:1-24. I’d like to begin by taking another look at what was discussed in our last study.

Because of our sin, we could never meet with God face-to-face. We needed someone to negotiate with Him on our behalf, and Jesus was "perfect" for the job. Jesus Christ is our “Advocate,” or Helper in heaven. (John 14:6).

He was uniquely qualified for this due to the fact that he was both human and divine (John 1:1, 14; Hebrews 2:17). This made Jesus qualified to act for both sides. In other words, to act as a go between with God and us.

It was also because Jesus’ sinlessness and innocence made him the “perfect” sacrifice for our evil and wickedness. This spotless Lamb of God assumed all of our sins and died on the Cross on our behalf (Hebrews 10:12).

Jesus’ sacrificial death and resurrection cleared the way to God’s presence. Only His death could pay the ransom to set us free from eternal death and sin. As a result, we can now know forgiveness of sin, and are freed from its destructiveness (1 John 2:2).

Here are some additional points to consider in this study:

John recounts the wonderful love God has for us, and that as His children, hope should serve to inspire us to live pure lives. Additionally, an awareness of sin should also serve as motivation for righteous living. 

We have learned that Jesus came to overcome sin, thus, any who are truly in Christ should cease from sinning. If one has true righteousness, this includes loving each other as Christ loved us. Consequently, we confidently and truthfully dwell in Him.

Helpful Information: The answers will be found within the numbered verses that are shown. If you have trouble with a question, continue on and return to it later. Re-read the verse(s) as often as needed.

Opening Prayer: Dear LORD, as I prepare to study Your Word I pray for an open and accepting heart and mind; may it also restore, replenish, and nourish my soul, and spirit. Help me to learn and apply Your teaching to my life. Amen.

Study Questions:

1) Briefly describe the main points of this chapter, according to verses 1-9; and 10-24.

2) The source of our motivation to live pure lives comes from..? (1 John 3:2-3)

3) John describes sin as..? (1 John 3:4)

4) Describe what is true of one who: (a) abides in Jesus Christ; and (b) has been born of God. (verses 6 and 9)

5) What sets apart the children of God from the children of the devil? (1 John 3:10)

6) What expresses (acts as) evidence that we have passed from death to life? (1 John 3:14)

7) What best illustrates true love? And, how should we demonstrate love ourselves? (1 John 3:16-18)

8) What provides us with the assurance (confidence) that we are of the truth? (1 John 3:19-23)

9) What proves that He dwells (abides) in us and we in Him? (1 John 3:24)

Once again we've reached the end of our bible study. It is my genuine hope that you've found this lesson both informative, and inspirational. As each study expands upon the last, I invite you to join me again next time! 

Until then, "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong."   -1 Corinthians 16:13

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 John 2:29; Proverbs 21:3; Romans 10:4; Romans 5:1

 

Prayer: “With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments!”   - Psalm 119:10 (ESV)

Joyfully in Christ,

Bridget