John’s primary PURPOSE is that believers will enter and maintain fellowship with God, with the RESULT of inner joy.“That which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. And these things we write to you that our joy may be full … These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may [continue to] believe in the name of the Son of God.” 1Jo 1:3-4; 1Jo 5:13 (emphasis added)
This compilation of notes represents the truths found in the Epistle of First John.
Gene Cunningham - February 13, 2000
Cross to the Crown #11
Nine facets in the diamond on the bride - Diamonds in the Bible (Exo 28:18, Jer 17:1, Eze 28:13). The adornment of the bride is composed of the righteous act of the saints (Rev 19:7-9, Isa 61:10-11). Divine production in life of the believer are valuable (1Co 3:12). Living faith will be rewarded (Jam 2:17). The works of the flesh (Gal 5:16-21) are the antithesis to the fruit of the spirit (Gal 5:22-25). What does it take to make a diamond? one element (carbon), heat, pressure, time, cutting and polishing; the same is true of us when it comes to God increasing Christ-likeness in us. Diamond in original Greek means "invincible". Fruit of the Spirit has a threefold division -- spiritual relation to (1) God -- Love, joy, peace; (2) others -- patience, kindness, goodness; and (3) yourself - faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. The are fake diamonds Col 2:8, Col 2:16, Col 2:18; Col 2:23. Surrender is needed for this -- the character and conduct of Christ in us (Gal 4:19, 1Jo 2:6). Good works? (1) Sacrifice whatever will make another stumble (Rom 14:21). Maintaining sexual purity (1Co 7:1, 1Th 4:3). (2) Being content with what you have (1Co 7:26, 1Ti 6:8, Heb 13:5). (3) To exercise your spiritual gift for the blessing of other believers (1Co 12:7). (4) Generous giving (2Co 9:7-8, Gal 6:6). (5) Work in supporting yourself (Eph 4:28, 1Th 3:8-10). (6) Fight the good fight (1Ti 1:18). (7) Boldly confessing Christ (1Ti 6:12).
Scripture References: Galatians 4:19, James 2:17, Colossians 2:23, Ephesians 4:28, Isaiah 61:10-11, Colossians 2:18, Galatians 6:6, Revelation 19:7-9, Colossians 2:16, Hebrews 13:5, Ezekiel 28:13, Colossians 2:8, Romans 14:21, Jeremiah 17:1, Galatians 5:22-25, John 2:6, Exodus 28:18, Galatians 5:16-21
From Series: "The Cross to the Crown"
To get from 'the cross to the crown' we need to make decisions to live a life of spiritual dynamics using God's provisions -- His Word and Spirit. This series given in early 2006 before Gene moved back to the States outlines ten aspects of our discipleship.