a message of assurance and caution - I john 2:12-17

John's Message of Assurance... So far in his letter John has been showing why some who say they know God, actually do not. These false Christians prove that they do not really know God because they live in rebellion against His commands and have hatred toward other Christians. Now, John turns to the true Christians and assures them that they have been forgiven, that they do know God, and that they have been victorious over Satan (vs's. 12-14).

John's Message of Caution... These true believers still needed to be warned to "not love the world or the things in the world" (vs. 15). By "world" John is referring to the secular mind set that opposes God's rule and selfishly pursues vain pleasures as if God did not exist. John did not want such a vain love to steal the hearts of Christians away from love for God.

*Questions for Discussion & Reflection:

1. How can you be sure that you are forgiven and know God? Why is it important that you be sure?

2. How are you tempted to love the world?

3. What will you do this week to help you cultivate a deeper love for God?

(Reading/Meditation Assignment: I John 2:18-27)