4: Abiding in Christ (1Jn 2:3-17)
The Basics
Setting
Having declared that God is
light, the author sets the direction of his exhortation. In order to have fellowship
with God, we must walk in the light and receive the atonement of Jesus Christ.
This section further teaches us that keeping God’s commandments is the way to
remain in fellowship with God.
Key Verse
“Now by this we know that we know
Him, if we keep His commandments” (2:3).
Did You Know…?
1. Little children (2:12,13): “In
verse 12 the Greek word is teknia, representing
kinship. So John writes this verse as to those spiritually related to him. In
verse 13 the Greek word is paidia suggesting subordination,
or listening to instruction.” 2/51
2. World (2:15): “The Greek translated ‘world’ is kosmos, an ordered system (opposite of chaos).” 2/51
Observation
Outline
(2:3-6)
(2:7-11)
(2:12-14)
(2:15-17)
Key Words/Phrases
General Analysis
1. What
are the three false claims that John discusses in this section?
2. How
can we truly know God?
3. How
can we overcome the wicked one?
Segment Analysis
2:3-6
1. How is God’s love perfected in those who keep God’s word?
2. What are some ways you can walk as Jesus walked?
2:7-11
3a. What is the commandment mentioned in
verses 7 and 8?
3b. Why is the commandment both old and new?
4. What does love and hatred have to do with light and
darkness?
2:12-14
5a. How is this paragraph unique?
5b. What three things are again
emphasized here?
5c. What do you think is the purpose of
this paragraph?
6. Who is the wicked one? How have the believers overcome him?
7. How can we let God’s word abide in us (v.14)?
2:15-17
8a. What does it mean to love the world?
8b. Why shouldn’t we love the world?
9. Explain each of these and think of some real-life examples:
9a. Lust of the flesh
9b. Lust of the eyes
9c. Pride of life
10a. What does it mean that the world and
its lust are passing away?
10b. What does this verse teach you about
what is meaningful and valuable in life?
