A. Our true identity arises from God's extravagant love!
B. Communion celebrates that we are in God's family!
A. Our true identity progresses as we grow in faith!
B. Communion anticipates that we will become truly pure!
A. Our true identity is displayed through righteous living!
Notice the parallel literary structure emphasizing our family relationship:
Verses 4-7, 10 | Verses 8-10 | |
Who is included: | Everyone who practices sin (4) | The one who practices sin (8) |
What is the issue: | The nature of sin is lawlessness (4) | The origin of sin is the devil (8) |
Christ's purpose: | He appeared to take away sin (5) | He appeared for this purpose to destroy the works of the devil (8) |
Our responsibility: | No one who abides in Him sins (6) | No one born of God practices sin(9) |
One who practices righteousness (7) | His seed is in him cannot sin (9) | |
Children of devil: | Does not practice righteousness (10) | Does not love his brother (10) |
Children of God: | Practices righteousness (10) | Loves his brother (10) |
B. Communion rejoices in Christ's victory over the devil!
Sermon by Pastor Rod Akins, June 7th, 2022