The Stream at Riverside

Sermon Discussion Questions 

1) John tells us our prayers for brothers/sisters who are caught in a sin “not leading to death” will be answered, granting life to those for whom we intercede (5:16-17; compare James 5:15-16, 19- 20). How does this encourage you in your intercessory prayers for others? 

2) John says not all sin leads to death (5:17). But aren’t the wages of all sin death (Romans 6:23; James 1:15)? What do you understand by John’s phrase “sin leading to death”? 

3) We’re told that the Son of God protects us from the evil one, who seduces the whole world (5:18-19). Jesus does this in part by revealing the true God to us (5:20). Yet at the same time we’re told to “guard” ourselves from idols/false images of God (5:21). How does trusting that Jesus shows us the truth and will protect us from Satan’s power lead us to take action now - repenting of and fleeing idolatry? What idols do you need to guard against?

Nate gives the children's sermon on 1 John 5:13-21.

Sermon Discussion Questions

1) Our confidence in prayer, John tells us (5:13-14), is an expression of our assurance of salvation. How have you experienced (or not experienced) confidence in your prayer life recently? 

2) John says, "if we ask anything according to his will he hears us” (5:14). How do you understand “anything according to his will”? 

3) Read John 15:15-16 together. Since Jesus has appointed YOU to bear lasting fruit for God, how does this challenge your prayer life / prayer list?

Alex gives the children's sermon on 1 John 5:13-15.

Sermon Discussion Questions 

1) John writes about a threefold witness to Jesus. Namely, Jesus’ public baptism and crucifixion, and the ongoing witness of the Holy Spirit (5:6) - a witness only made possible because of Jesus’ resurrection and ascension (see John 16:7-8; 15:26). How do these three - water, blood and Spirit - continue to testify (5:7-8)? 

2) John says God Himself testifies in this threefold witness (5:9; compare John 5:31-36; 10:24-25). Re-read 5:10. How have you experienced God's testimony? 

3) If we have received God’s own testimony about Jesus, then, John tells us, we know we have eternal life (5:11-12). This is called “assurance” ... the whole point of John’s letter (read the next verse, 5:13). What is your experience of this "assurance of salvation”? How has it changed or fluctuated over time?

JayWil continues our 1 John sermon series.

Alex gives the children's sermon on 1 John 5:1-5.

Sermon Discussion Questions 

1) John says “God is love” (4:8, 16). What does that mean? How do we know that’s true? 

2) As an apostle and eye-witness of Jesus, John writes “we have come to know and believe the love God has for us.” How have you personally "come to know and believe" the love God has for you in Christ? How or when do you doubt it? 

3) "Perfect love casts out fear” (4:18). How have you experienced love being perfected within you? If you’re a Christian, what ways have you slipped into an 'imperfect' fear of judgment? How can you “assure your heart before him” (3:19) during those times? If you are not a Christian, how does God’s promise of perfect love and acceptance in Christ address your fears?

Stacy gives the children's sermon on 1 John 4:7-21.

Landon continues our sermon series through 1 John.