1. In this lesson we are concentrating on the information presented in 1 John 5:13-19. 2. As we study this letter we must remember that John wrote it to Christians who were being influenced by some people he called "antichrists." a. These "antichrists" did not believe or teach the truth about the Lord. b. If Christians listened to and accepted the teaching of the "antichrists," they would stop believing that Jesus is the Son of God. 3. Not only must we believe that Jesus is God's Son to be saved, but we must continue believing that Jesus is God's Son to stay saved. 4. In 5:13-19 John dealt with some additional matters that Christians can know. Discussion: I. (vs.13) CHRISTIANS CAN KNOW THAT THEY HAVE ETERNAL LIFE
A. John began in vs.13 by referring to the things he had just written. B. In vs.1-12 John showed why Christians must continue believing that Jesus is God's Son. 1. We must continue believing that Jesus is God's Son to be "born of God" (vs.1-3). 2. We must continue believing that Jesus is God's Son to overcome the world (vs.4-5). 3. John continued in vs.6-10 by presenting evidence to prove that Jesus is God's Son. a. He first presented testimony from the Holy Spirit (vs.6-8). b. He also presented testimony from the Father (vs.9-10). 4. Those who continue believing this testimony about Jesus have eternal life (vs.11-12). C. Question: Do we actually have eternal life now? 1. Christians have the promise of eternal life (2:25). 2. Eternal life will not be granted until the judgment (Revelation 2:10). 3. Paul showed in Romans 8:18-25 that we must wait patiently to receive it. D. Knowing that eternal life is available ought to motivate us: 1. to continue believing that Jesus is God's Son 2. to reject anyone who does not teach the truth about Christ. II. (vs.14-15) CHRISTIANS KNOW THAT GOD HEARS AND ANSWERS THEIR PRAYERS
A. This great principle is emphasized throughout the Bible (1 John 3:22; Matthew 7:7-8). B. However, we must remember that: 1. we must ask according to God's will (Matthew 26:39) 2. God answers according to His will (2 Corinthians 12:8-9a). C. God may answer our prayers by: 1. granting our requests 2. denying our requests 3. responding in ways different from the ways we ask.
III. (vs.16-19) CHRISTIANS ARE NOT TO PRAY FOR A BROTHER WHO SINS UNTO DEATH
A. John made a distinction between a "sin not unto death" and a "sin unto death." 1. Prayer is to be offered for a brother who commits a "sin not unto death." 2. Prayer is not to be offered for a brother who commits a "sin unto death." B. John is not dealing with a specific sin because "all unrighteousness is sin" (vs.17). C. By comparing several passages we can properly understand John's message. 1. See 1 John 2:1-2; 1 John 1:7; 1 John 1:9; James 5:16. 2. The "sin unto death" is any act of unrighteousness that is not confessed. D. John summarized by showing that those who are truly born of God: 1. will not sin after this manner (vs.18) 2. will not be like the world that lies in wickedness (vs.19).
