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 16
Rom 1:1-2 presents doctrines for application to include the need for a sense of urgency and the fact we are brethren -- valuing each other (Heb 11:34, Psa 16:3). Paul adjusted to his environment -- common courtesy -- so that he could win people to Christ (1Co 9:22). In Adam we are in darkness, but when we believed in Christ, we entered into the environment of Grace (Col 1:13, 1Co 12:13). "By the mercies of God" (Rom 12:1). Romans Outline: Condemnation (Romans 1-3), Justification (Romans 4-5), Sanctification (Romans 6-8), Dispensation (Romans 9-11), Application (Romans 12-14). God's mercies motivate His provisions to us (Mat 9:36, Psa 103:1-2, Eph 1:1-3). Our compass is the cross. Left: Jesus Christ performed Redemption which paid for all our sins; Top: Propitiation - God is completely satisfied; Right: Reconciliation means there's now a change - the hostility is removed (Rom 5:1). Bottom: Justification: we are declared righteous.
Scripture References: Hebrews 11:34, Ephesians 1:1-3, Romans 1:1-2, Psalms 103:1-2, Matthew 9:36, Romans 12:1, Colossians 1:13, Psalms 16:3, Romans 5:1
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.