April 16, 2023 . . .

A thorough study of I John 1:1-4 gives us a much greater understanding of what it means to be a Christian and the truth of the Gospel.  The Big Idea:  We can be sure concerning Jesus and the Gospel and because of this assurance, we have a secure foundation to navigate the coming years.  John defines a Christian in several verses.  In I John 5:1 we are told that we are born of God.  In I John 1:9 and 2:12 he tells us that our sins are forgiven.  In I John 5:13, we have eternal life because of our belief in the Son of God. We have fellowship with the Father and Jesus Christ, I John 1:3.  And, in I John 2:3, we are ones who keep the commandments of Jesus.  The Word and truth of the Gospel has been with us from the beginning.  We have heard it, seen it, looked at it, and handled it.  In I John 1:2, the Gospel has been manifested, been witnessed, and been declared by the disciples which is still the process for disciple-making today.  In I John 1:3-4, John reminds us that as it was seen by the first disciples it has been declared to us, bringing fellowship, joy, hope, and salvation to those who believe.  God chose us to live in this difficult time right now.  We must accept the truth of the Gospel and the commitment that Jesus Christ died for all our sins.  If we are to survive these troubled times, our foundation has to be Jesus Christ!