The apostle John came from apparently comfortable circumstances in Galilee, where he and his brother James left their home and fishing trade to follow a man named Jesus. More than sixty years later John, the Beloved of the Lord, recorded his testimony of the divinity of the Savior. His gospel stands apart in literature as a careful and passionate witness of the Son of God. In stating his reasons for writing, John explained, "And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name" (John 20:30-31).
John's Gospel carries a unique focus on the words "believe," and "life." It was written for Church members, those who already believe. John bears a tender and intimate witness of the Lord Jesus Christ, that we might know Him and gain Eternal life through faith in His sacrifice; that "when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is." (1 John 3:2). John invites us to leave behind the things that bind us to this world, as he once left his fishing nets on the shore of Galilee, and to follow the Son of God as sheep follow their shepherd.
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Friday, January 14, 2011
1 John 2-3 Study Guide – to be discussed January 20
Day 1: Read 1 John 2:1-6 (with footnotes 1a, 1b)
1. From 1 John 2:1, give a reason John wrote this epistle to the early church. How does the JST footnote clarify the meaning of this verse?
2. What is “propitiation”? Why is it effective for the sins of the whole world, not just for the repentant?
3. How do we come to “know” God?
Day 2: Read 1 John 2:7-14 (with footnotes 7a, 8a)
4. What was the “new” yet “old” commandment John wanted to emphasize?
5. What attitude causes spiritual blindness?
6. List who John addressed his remarks to and why
Day 3: Read 1 John 2:15-20 (with footnotes 16b, 20a), Bible Dictionary entry, “Antichrist”
7. If Jesus Christ is the creator of the world, why are we admonished NOT to love the world?
8. What will happen eventually to our love of the world? What will happen to our love of God?
9. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Antichrist” (p. 609). What is an “antichrist”? Are there antichrists in the world today? How can we recognize them?
Day 4: Read 1 John 2:21-29, John 14:7, 2 Nephi 32:3
10. What kinds of fellowship do those who deny Christ forfeit?
11. What does Christ promise those who follow him?
12. Read 2 Nephi 32:3 with 1 John 2:27. What is the “anointing” or gift John describes, that teaches us all truth?
Day 5: Read 1 John 3:1-6 (with footnote 6a), 1 Corinthians 13:12, Alma 5:14, D&C 88:68
13. How does God manifest his love for us?
14. Read 1 John 3:2-3 with 1 Corinthians 13:12, Alma 5:14 and D&C 88:68. How can we reflect the light of Christ?
15. How does the JST footnote for 1 John 3:6a aid your understanding of this passage?
Day 6: Read 1 John 3:7-18 (with footnotes 8a, 9b, 10a)
16. Whose are we if we continue in sin?
17. Using the JST footnote for 1 John 3:9b, how can we know we are born of God?
18. From 1 John 3:10, what two qualities should separate us from the world?
Day 7: Read 1 John 3:13-24 (with footnotes 16b, 18a)
19. How might those who exercise hate toward their brethren commit murder?
20. How might our hearts condemn us? Why is it important to have “confidence toward God”?
21. What does it mean to have the Lord abide in us?
From the Institute manual: Membership in the Church exists, in part, to further one’s spiritual condition. Fellowship is the principle means by which this is to be accomplished. Through fellowship, men and women with common goals and aspirations are given an opportunity to uplift and strengthen one another. This kind of fellowship far transcends that found in social groups or political parties. John knew that this fellowship is the distinguishing mark of the true Church, for it is not found anywhere else.
Do you understand the promise John is making to you? Can you see that as you determine to keep the commandments, you will receive power and love from God, and that he will readily cleanse you from all sin as you love and serve his children? Further, do you see that God’s power and love will be perfected in you until you become perfect and enjoy full fellowship in Christ and partake of his Spirit and blessings? God is offering you the power of eternity, and all he is asking in return is that you love and obey him and willingly serve his children. Can you make the offering of love so that you might be filled with his glory?
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