Back to Love
René Schlaepfer
Part of Living in Love
May 9, 2021

Download Printable Notes (open in browser)

Today we begin a study of the book of First John in the Bible

WHO wrote it

The Apostle John


WHAT is it about

Key word:

Reveal Answer

Key verse:
“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.” 1 John 3:16

WHY was it written

Here are the benefits of studying First John—according to the
author :

  1. Refreshed
    Reveal Answer

    “We write this so that our joy may be complete.” 1 John 1:4

  2. Released
    Reveal Answer

    “My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate who speaks to the Father in our defense –Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.” 1 John 2:1

  3. Reclarified
    Reveal Answer

    “I am writing these things to warn you about those who are trying to lead you astray.” 1 John 2:26

  4. Renewed
    Reveal Answer

    “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. This is the confidence we have in approaching God…” 1 John 5:13

QUESTIONS for personal reflection or group discussion

  1. Look over the notes and verses from this past weekend. Write down something new that you learned about the book of 1 John or the apostle John himself.
  2. Read 1 John 3:16. How does it encourage you to know Jesus cherishes you so much he gave his life for you? How would a deepening realization of that lead to renewed joy and confidence?\
  3. Think about someone you know who demonstrates sacrificial love. Who is that person? What do you see in their life that you would like emulate?
  4. Read Romans 13:10 and 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. According to these verses, what are characteristics of real love? How does God show this kind of love to you?
  5. What part of this definition of love is the most challenging for you and why?
    Thank God today for His love for you. Ask Him to help you show that same type of love to those in your life. Think of one particular person to whom you’d like to show love this week.

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