1. A number of times the Bible mentions "victory" in connection with God's people. 2. In our lesson we are showing from the Scriptures that: a. God's people are to gain the victory of "overcoming the world" b. God's people who overcome the world will be given "victory over death." 3. By gaining one victory we will be given another victory. 4. Let us first point out that . . .
Discussion:
I. GOD'S PEOPLE ARE TO GAIN THE VICTORY OF "OVERCOMING THE WORLD"
A. We learn from 1 John 5:4 that God's people [those who are born of God] are responsible for overcoming the world -- this is a victory that God wants us to gain. B. The condition of the world [described in 1 John 5:19b] helps us understand why we must gain this victory. C. Information is given in 1 John 2:15-17 that will help us to be victorious. D. Additional instructions are given in: 1. Matthew 5:14-16 2. Romans 12:1-2 3. James 4:4. E. Let us follow the Lord's example -- according to John 16:33, Jesus gained this victory Himself. F. Let us turn our attention to another victory.
II. GOD'S PEOPLE WHO OVERCOME THE WORLD WILL BE GIVEN "VICTORY OVER DEATH"
A. We learn about this victory in 1 Corinthians 15:50-57. B. In this chapter Paul wrote at length about the resurrection that will occur when Jesus returns. C. The dead who overcame the world while they were alive will be raised in an incorruptible and immortal state -- no longer subject to death and decay. D. Those who are alive that have overcome the world will be changed into an incorruptible and immortal state -- this change is necessary because "flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God." E. When this change takes place and the dead are raised God will have given a great victory to His people. 1. (vs.54) Death will have been "swallowed up in victory." 2. (vs.55) Death will have lost its sting, and the grave will be a loser. F. (vs.57) How grateful we need to be to God that He gives this victory through His Son!
Conclusion:
1. We have studied passages that teach us about "God's people and victory." 2. We have seen that one victory leads to another. 3. First, God requires His people to gain the victory of "overcoming the world." 4. Second, God gives "victory over death" to His people who overcome the world. 5. The starting point is being "born of God" (1 John 5:4; John 3:5).
