What, if anything, gives you hope?

First John is based on one foundational truth, real hope centers on and is rooted in the person and work of

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That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life— 2 the life was made manifest, and we have seen it, and testify to it and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was made manifest to us— 3 that which we have seen and heard we proclaim also to you, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ. 4 And we are writing these things so that our joy may be complete. —1 John 1:1–4

Jesus is the basis of our

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and

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.

What does it mean that Jesus is the basis of our fellowship and joy? The first few verses of John’s letter make two realities unmistakably clear:

Jesus makes fellowship with believers possible – v.3

Jesus brings joy - v.4

These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. —John 15:11

You may not experience the joy God has reserved for you because you do not share the good news of Jesus.

It is impossible to have fellowship with God and with other believers apart from Jesus. It is impossible to experience the joy of salvation apart from

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Question: How will the things you hope in hold up?

Any object of hope other than Jesus will be

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under the pressure of life.

Look to Jesus, hear from Jesus, taste and see that the Lord is good! Enjoy life that only comes through faith and trust in Him.

Then, join together with other believers and be

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to Christ, His purpose, and His people to make disciples so that others can know the life-changing power of Jesus.