1 John (Part 2): Legalism, License, or The Gospel
1 John 1:7-2:2
The 6 “If-Then” Statements of 1 John 1:5-2:2
John’s primary declaration: God is light, and there is no darkness in Him.
(1 John 1:5)
Speaking to License (1 John 1:6)
Speaking to Gospel (1 John 1:7)
Speaking to Legalism (1 John 1:8)
Speaking to Gospel (1 John 1:9)
Speaking to Legalism & License (1 John 1:10)
John’s Purpose: That you may not sin (1 John 2:1)
Jesus is our Advocate, our Atoning Sacrifice, the Righteous One
(1 John 2:1-2)
TAG Questions
T.A.G. Questions (try these out with friends after the worship service)
1. What is something the Lord taught you through the sermon?
2. How does it apply to your life?
Small Group Discussion Questions
Is there anything from Sunday’s message which stands out to you, or any part which you hope we discuss?
Pastor Josh talked about how the New Testament warns of two enemies of the gospel: legalism and license. Legalism says, “I obey, therefore Jesus saves me.” License says, “Jesus saves me, therefore I don’t have to obey.” But a gospel mindset says, “Jesus saves me, therefore I get to obey.” Why does it matter, so long as we believe in Jesus?
Read 1 John 1:7-2:2. Where do you see John addressing the tension between legalism and license?
Which side (legalism or license) were you raised around more growing up? (Or your church experience/ experience around Christians growing up)
What happens when we stray too far into legalism or license? What types of motivations, ways of thinking, or behaviors do either side lead to?
1 John 2:1-2. John says he writes these things “so that you may not sin.” If we really embrace what John is teaching us here, especially the gospel truth that Jesus is our Advocate and Atoning Sacrifice, how does believing in Him this way enable us to have victory over sin?