Idea: Since you have placed your faith in Jesus, you may know you have eternal life, and you will persevere in faith.
Intro: We live in an age of much uncertainty, which is rather curious given the amount of information we have and how much value we place on having information. And yet, everywhere you look you will find uncertainly. What will tomorrow bring? How will I pay this week's bills? To deeper questions – What is truth? Is there a god? Does God really forgive my sins? Will I go to heaven?
Into this uncertainty, God has spoken. God has revealed Himself in the flesh in Jesus Christ, and God has recorded His work and words giving us a foundation of truth and certainty upon which we can live. Boice, “According to John, a Christian can know, first, that Christianity is true (this is an objective or historical certainty) and, second, that he is a Christian (this is a subjective or personal certainty)." My purpose in taking up this letter is to communicate this certainty to you.
1. From Gospel to Letter
2. What is assurance?
3. What is perseverance?
Conc. When you groan under the weakness of your faith, remember that God has the power to save you from your sins. When you suffer the trials of this life, remember that you are upheld by the mighty hand of Christ. When you wonder about the future turn to promises like these either literally or by memorizing these promises, and may God's Spirit remind you of His promises, His faithfulness, and His power to save. |
