I John Chapter 2
This chapter could be summed up as the marks of a true disciple of Jesus Christ. Sometimes we hear people say that they are a Christian, but their lifestyle does not show evidence of the same. The more we read and study God’s Word, the more we see just how important it is to walk the walk. The very fact that Jesus was our propitiation in our place – should cause us to strive to be more Christ-like. That word propitiation means that the satisfaction of God’s wrath, was met in the death and resurrection of Jesus. He turned God’s wrath to favor on our behalf. God’s righteous anger toward our sin was taken care of by our Savior.
Let's Reflect
1. What endearing name did John call the believers that was the same name Jesus used?
2. As believers we still have the old sin nature in us. If we do sin, who will defend us before God the Father?
As our Advocate, He stands before the Father and He does not say that we are innocent, He says that we are guilty of sin. But He stands before the Father as having paid for the punishment for our sins so that we can stand before the Father in the beautiful righteousness of Jesus.
3. What is a mark of a true believer?
John speaks of the New Commandment as Jesus did. John 13:34A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.
It is difficult to be a true believer of Jesus Christ and see the love that He had for the world and then be someone who hates other people.
4. What does John say about a person who hates other people?
5. As John addresses his reader, he calls them by different names that may symbolize different levels of Christian maturity in the faith. What would you say is John’s overriding message to each of these groups?
John talks about those who would deny that Jesus is the Christ (the Messiah). He calls such people – antichrist. The antichrist is one who denies the Father and the Son. As we approach the second coming of Jesus, there will be more and more people who deny Jesus and the Father.
6. According to verses 24-27 what must the believer do to keep from being misled by those who deny Christ?
7. What important level of faith will we gain by abiding in Christ?
