Main Idea: The New Year brings so many brand new opportunities for us. But God's gift at Christmas, though old, yet it is still so powerful to bring transformation in us today.
1. A Holy Purpose to Fulfill - STOP LIVING IN SIN!
"My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin." (v.1a)
What is SIN?
A. Sin is SEDITION (rebellion) against God. [1 John 3:4]
B. Sin is VERY SERIOUS. [1 John 3:8-10]
Why is sin serious?
B.1. Sin is very serious because it insults the death of Christ.
B.2. Sin is very serious because it illustrates the nature of Satan, not God's.
B.3. Sin is very serious because it imperils our assurance of salvation.
C. SCRIPTURE can help us overcome sin. [Psalm 119:11]
2. Christ helps us in our fight against sin.
"But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense - Jesus Christ, the Righteous One." (v.1b)
A. We don't have to surrender our fight over sin,
B. Because Christ is at the Father's side speaking in our defense. [Romans 8:34; 1 John 4:4]
3. Hope that our failures will be forgiven.
"He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world." (v.2)
A. Christ's death SATISFIED the wrath of God. [John 3:36]
B. Christ's death SANCTIFIED us from our sins. [1 John 1:7]
C. Christ's death SEALED our forgiveness from the Father.
Taken from: Rev. Fraxedes "Macky" Sabayle's 1 John series - January 5, 2014 at Bradford United Church of Christ, Inc.
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