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For assurance of eternal life, John draws our attention to the key which is personal knowledge of God – a relationship with our Heavenly Father. This saving relationship is the source for discipleship in how we live and act, in what we love, and in defining who and whose we are.
Definitions:
- “Dear Children” is how John addresses the Entire Church
A: “Young Men” is how John refers to Immature or new Disciples
B: “Fathers” is how John refers to Mature Disciples
Observations:
- “Lusts of the Flesh” refer to Natural Evil
- “Lust of the Eyes” refer to Moral Evil
- “The Pride of Life’ refers to Idolatry
Conclusions:
- Our Knowledge of God determines our behavior
- Our Knowledge of God determines who or what rules our heart
- Our Knowledge of God determines our identity
Application:
- Where you are mature, share your maturity
A: Reach out to others who have similar struggles
B: Testify about God’s work in your life - Where you are immature, fellowship with those who are mature in that area