Spiritual genetics - I john 2:28-3:10

Realize Who You Are (3:1)... As Christians we can know that we are the children of God. It is a common misconception to think that all people are equally God's children but the Bible teaches that this place of special favor belongs only to those who have faith in Jesus Christ.

Realize Your Future (3:2-3 & 2:28)... When Jesus returns the children of God will see Him and will become like Him in His perfection. The Christian's battle against sin and temptation will finally be over. In anticipation of this event, we must purify ourselves (3:3) and abide in Jesus (2:28).

Realize Your New Nature (3:4-10)... In these verses the Apostle John contrasts the righteous life of the child of God with the rebellious life of the child of the devil. He makes clear that it is impossible for the child of God to go on living in habitual and persistent sin because this would contradict his new nature. The child of God has been reborn and his life will inevitably resemble the purity and goodness of his Father.

*Questions for Discussion & Reflection:

1. Does your attitude toward your own sin reveal that you are a child of God? If yes, why?

2. How does knowing that you are God's child affect your daily living?

3. What will you do to more deeply abide in Jesus?

(Reading/Meditation Assignment: I John 3:11-24)