1. In vs.1 John gave a strong warning to the Lord's followers. a. We must not believe everything we hear. b. We must not believe everything we hear because there are many false prophets in the world. c. We are to examine the things we hear (Acts 17:11). 2. In vs.2-3 John contrasted 2 doctrines. a. In vs.2 John mentioned the fact that true teachers confess that Jesus came in the flesh -- this is the Spirit of God. b. In vs.3 John showed how false teachers do not confess that Jesus came in the flesh -- this is the spirit of antichrist. 3. Based on these verses written by the apostle John, believing that Jesus came to earth in the flesh is a matter of utmost importance. 4. As we study this subject, let us keep in mind the admonitions given in: a. 2 Peter 3:18 b. John 5:39. Discussion: I. THE SCRIPTURES DECLARE THAT JESUS CAME TO EARTH IN THE FLESH
A. John began his Gospel (John 1:1-3) by showing how the Lord's existence is eternal. B. However, he continued in John 1:14 by stating that Jesus came in the flesh. C. This great event was announced before it took place. 1. The angel Gabriel spoke to Mary about it (Luke 1:26-38). 2. An angel informed Joseph about it (Matthew 1:18-25). II. THE SCRIPTURES REVEAL WHEN JESUS CAME TO EARTH IN THE FLESH
A. Jesus was born when Joseph and Mary were in Bethlehem (Luke 2:1-7). B. This was prophesied many years earlier in Micah 5:2 (Matthew 2:3-6). C. Although we do not know the exact time of the Lord's birth, we learn from Galatians 4:4 that God sent His Son when the time was right according to His time schedule. III. THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US WHY JESUS CAME TO EARTH IN THE FLESH
A. He came to fulfill the law and the prophets (Matthew 5:17-18). B. He came to call sinners to repentance (Matthew 9:12-13). C. He came to preach (Mark 1:38). D. He came to serve others and to give His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). E. He came to seek and to save the lost (Luke 19:10). F. He came to do the Father's will (John 6:38). G. He came so we might have life and have it more abundantly (John 10:10). H. He came to be tempted so He could serve as our High Priest (Hebrews 2:16-18). Conclusion:
1. We have covered a number of passages that relate to the Lord's coming to earth in the flesh. 2. Perhaps we can better appreciate the words we read earlier (1 John 4:1-3). 3. Have you allowed the Lord to save you?
