Last night we studied 1 John 2:2 - 3:3. In this passage we learned that those who are born of God naturally practice righteousness. Additionally, those who are born of God are looking forward in hope to Jesus' return when we will see Him as He is and be like Him. The result of this hope is that we naturally purify ourselves in anticipation of the future:
FATHER HOLY SPIRIT SON
BORN OF GOD leads to PRACTICING RIGHTEOUSNESS/PURIFYING SELF in anticipation of SEEING/BEING LIKE JESUS
However, through our discussion we realized that this teaching presents us with a problem. We seem to very quickly turn practicing righteousness into an idolized checklist that, when incomplete, results in God's disappointment in us. We need to recognize this as a lie and bask in the wonder of being called God's children and being considered righteous in His eyes through Jesus' death and resurrection. Then let that Truth move us naturally into the practice of righteousness and purification.
THE CHALLENGE:
1) Spend time this week reflecting on 1 John 3:1.
2) Spend time in prayer thanking God for calling you His child and loving you unconditionally.
3) Come to class next week prepared to share how the Holy Spirit moved you this week as you basked in the wonder of that Truth.
In Him,
Aaron
