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 - May 23, 2000
Living Sacrifice 06
We like Israel have the provisions but need to take advantage of them (1Co 10:1-5, 1Co 10:14-17). During communion we eat and drink blessing or cursing. There's always a remnant of believers (Rom 11:5). There must be a sense of destiny, a sense of urgency, and tenacity or endurance. Paul always wanted to go to Rome, but he went as a prisoner (Phi 1:12). In Rom 12:1 the word "brethren" indicates the potential for unique standing in eternity. Membership in a royal family has distinction as does spiritual heritage (Gal 3:9). Paul appeals to our standing -- what we are should effect our action (Rom 5:1-2, John 3:36). The baptism of the Spirit puts us into union with Christ and makes us brethren (1Pe 3:18, 1Co 12:13-15). In the race to be at the top, Paul had been more zealous than Jewish peers. God thinks of it as crap (Phi 3:8, Isa 64:6).
Scripture References: Romans 5:1-2, Galatians 3:9, Romans 12:1, Philippians 1:12, Isaiah 64:6, Romans 11:5, Philippians 3:8, John 3:36
From Series: "Living Sacrifice (1995)"
Romans 12 and specifically Rom 12:1-2 is a pivot point between the doctrinal section and application of the book. This series methodically uses this passage to outline aspects or doctrines of the christian life -- God's provision and our prospect. Our lives can be acceptable to God if we progress on the path He intends. Living Sacrifice presents 12 doctrines: (1) redeeming time; (2) standing (positional truth); (3) self-presentation - availability; (4) approval; (5) service; (6) provision; (7) spiritual warfare; (8) conformity; (9) spiritual advance; (10) renewal; (11) divine guidance; (12) abundant life.