Purpose

: Times of doubt will come, our confidence is based not on our memory but God’s faithfulness.

Introduction

Today is Valentine’s Day. It is the day of sweethearts. It is the day to express your love to someone. This day is special for many. For many it is a day to express your love unlike any other day of the year. Expectations can be high for this day. Feelings can be expressed and feelings can be hurt if expectations aren’t met. So with great fear and trepidation I admit that I am a Scrooge when it comes to Valentine’s Day. I believe it is a Hallmark conspiracy to get the public spending money again after Christmas. I refuse to allow culture to tell me how I am supposed to express love to someone.

Someone may think that I am just being overly dramatic about such. Not at all. I’m not like the man who takes his wife to the card shop; let’s her pick out a card that she likes; and tells her that expresses his sentiment and walks away without purchasing the card. My thinking is far more pragmatic. If I demonstrate a lack of love throughout the year, do you think one day each year makes up for it? Is my wife going to be fooled by a bunch of flowers that my irresponsible and unloving behavior was just a ruse? Do I think she is that stupid? On the other side of the coin, is the person who says that I do express my love each day and I want to give greater expression to that love today. Good for you. May you celebrate many more Valentine’s Days.

I say all of this tongue in cheek. Romance may not be your greatest gift. You may be like the man at the marriage seminar who when told by the speaker that it was imperative to know his wife’s favorite flower in order to surprise her from time to time, leaned near his wife’s ear and whispered “It’s Pillsbury.” Or like the counselor who grew frustrated trying to explain romance to the very unromantic husband that the counselor broke ethical guidelines by walking up to the wife, hugged and kissed her passionately and afterwards told the man “Your wife needs that about 2 times each week.” The husband looked at the therapist and said sheepishly, “Ok. I’ll bring her here every Tuesday and Thursday.” Part of the importance of Valentine’s Day perhaps is to reassure that special someone that you are thinking of them.

Only you and God can know your motives. You can pretend; you can look good to others; only you know what is inside of you. The murderer always has the next door neighbor who says “I can’t believe he did it; he was such a nice person.” You can do all the right things; say all the right things; and fool people. But in your quiet times; in your times when no one else is around – you know who you are.

I am not talking to those who are working hard to fool us and has no desire to change. I am talking to those who really want to honor God and know that the imperfection is ever near. Our imperfection drives us to despair. We condemn ourselves. But here is the truth – God is greater than our hearts. He knows everything – our motives, our desires, our wishes, the secrets, and our imperfection. And knowing it all he says to us “Rest.” “Relax.” “Shhhh – quiet your heart and listen to me – my Spirit lives within you.”

Did you not supply something for the needs of another?

Did you not help your neighbor during a very difficult time?

Did you not bring food for the poor? Coats?

Are you not trying to please me?

Are you wanting to be unselfish in all your ways?

Listen to Father. Hear his words of reassurance. Paul says in Romans 8:16, that God’s Spirit testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.

After Lincoln’s assassination, his pockets were emptied. Among the items were two pair of glasses, a pocketknife, a watch fob, and a wallet. Inside the wallet was a Confederate $5 (very odd) and 9 newspaper clippings. All the clippings were positive in how they described Lincoln. Why? Lincoln was hated by both political parties during his tenure as President. He tried to unite a divided country. Some thought he was too easy on the Confederates. The Confederates saw him as disrupting their way of life. While winning the popular vote, few believed in him. It is believed that Lincoln was filled with doubt throughout his presidency even to the point of suffering depression. Why the positive articles? Because he had to hear something that reassured him. In the same way, God wants to reassure us. May we hear his Spirit.

Purpose

: Self-sacrifice for our brothers proves that we belong to God

Introduction

I was in college. Like many then not so much now, I drove whatever I could afford. My parents didn’t pay for a car for college. Having wrecked my first car, I was driving my second car – a 1972 Buick Skylark. Two doors with a 350 V-8 engine. I bought it used. My problem was I didn’t realize how used it had been. Previous owners had enjoyed the power of that car. I got to use the last days of that car’s life.

My parents were not wealthy people. Our family rules included “if you buy a car you have to be able to afford it – gas, oil, maintenance, insurance, and repairs – all became part of the privilege of owning the car. So owning a car meant a job. My job included a car. I delivered newspapers. Made a decent income – covered my car expenses, dating, fun, contribution, and some school expenses. My problem was this car was constantly breaking down and if it wasn’t breaking down the 10 miles to the gallon meant that I was buying gas every other day. When the car broke down, it meant that I had to borrow my parent’s car in order to do my job. They didn’t mind too much.

I found a mechanic who would fix the car and allow me to make payments on the repairs. I paid as much as I could as quickly as I could, but I always seemed to owe a little more on the car. My first year of college was financially tough. My car once again needed repairs. This time the head gasket needed to be replaced and the valves needed to be ground and reseated. Not an inexpensive venture. The repairs were made and while I have long forgotten the bill total, I knew that the rest of my life would be spent paying the mechanic. I will never forget when my mentor gave me $50 to help pay the bill. I was not only blessed; I was humbled. Even better he never wanted the money back.

Perhaps you have had similar experiences? Our text reminds us that love is seen in actions. Acts of love especially when we see another in need demonstrate God’s love for us. John writes that those who belong to God will act like him when the opportunity presents itself. May we be reminded of God’s love today.

The Text

Notice that verses 10 & 11 go together. The children of God are characterized by righteousness. The children of God do not practice sin. They also love one another. Here is the point that John picks up in our text. John announces the point of the section in verse 11 – Love one another. He alluded to this command in 2:7ff. In our text he continues the idea of what it means to love one another with a contrast. John contrasts Cain and Jesus. The contrast makes sense. Cain demonstrates the lack of love and Jesus the presence of love.

Cain hated his brother. Abel did righteous acts. But Cain hated him. His own unrighteous acts demonstrated that he belonged to the evil one. A link to verse 10. This is how it is in this world. Evil people hate good people. Such hatred results in murder. Verse 14 is an interesting verse. John says that our love for our brothers proves that we have moved from death to life. Jesus uses the same concept in John 5:24. In that text, Jesus says that those who accept him as coming from the Father have eternal life and they have passed from death to life. John is writing to a group who has lost a rogue group of people who have rejected Jesus as the Messiah. These are the ones who do not have eternal life. John’s words serve two purposes:

To made a distinction between those who are children of God and those who have pulled away from the believers.

To further elicit righteous actions which demonstrate that they are children of God – love each other.

Thus, hatred equals murder. To deny the worth, value or rights of another is hatred. To hate another means there is no life within; only death.

John turns his attention to the other side of the contrast – Jesus. This is how we know what love is – Jesus laid down his life for us and those who belong to him will do the same thing. John does not mean that one should take “a bullet” for another although if that presents itself that sacrifice might be necessary. No person can atone for the sins of another in the way that Jesus did. John is focusing on the attitude which expresses itself in righteous acts. To lay down his life for his brothers, Jesus had to say “no” to his own life. This is what God expects – a willingness to say “no” to self so that others may live.

John expands on this type of love through the example of caring for the basic needs of our brothers. Those who have are to say “no” to self in order for the needs of another to be met. It isn’t merely to give for another. Notice in verse 17 that John uses the word “pity.” The act of providing must be accompanied by an emotional response of concern. For John to love another means that we sacrifice our material possessions in order for the needs of another to be met. And we do this with a sense of compassion and concern for the one who is hurting. No regret; no judging that says “get your life together;” no “I’m doing you a favor and you owe me.” True concern.

Evidence

This is part of our vision for Park Avenue. While John is speaking specifically of loving the brothers (see verse 16), his point is not exclusive. It is in our loving one another that the world will be convinced that we are disciples of Jesus. However, our care and concern does not end with our brothers, but only begins with our brothers. The need of the world is not for heroic acts of martyrdom, but for heroic acts of material sacrifice. This is what it means to be a child of God. Do you align with Cain who hated or with Jesus who loved? What is the proof?

Those who align with Cain devalue the worth of others. Someone may say that they are not like Cain. They have not murdered anyone. The only difference between Cain who murders quickly and the one who refuses to help those in need is the amount of time necessary for death. But then one may be murdered by the attitude of one against another.

To look down your nose at another is to devalue that person.

To think that you are better than another is to deny a person’s worth.

To think that the person in need is in their condition because they do not work hard enough is to deny the basic necessities and demonstrates hatred.

To hold on to one’s possessions without sacrificing for those in need is to be no different from Cain.

On the other hand, those who align with Jesus demonstrate that they are children of God through their righteous deeds.

We say “no” to self in order to see another live.

We are moved with great pity to help those who do not have.

I have seen this spirit among us. I saw it last week when on very short notice food was brought for those in need.

I saw this recently when the people in Haiti were in need and over $3200 was collected in one day to assist in their plight.

I have seen individuals care for another family out of their own pockets.

I have seen members anonymously give large sums to help families in this congregation.

I have seen the spirit of Christ in sacrifice over and over again.

I have seen those who have sharing with those who do not have and I know love lives here.

May we never forget the words of John – Dear Children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and truth. Prayer.

Purpose

: The promise of eternal life is to those who remain in the Son and the Father.

Introduction

As we continue our study of 1 John, we come to a text that serves as the basis for theological debate. Our purpose is to leave that debate to others. We acknowledge that there may be some things that are difficult to understand there isn’t anything difficult in understanding John’s point in this section – remain in Christ. Do not turn away. Eternal life is promised to those who remain in Christ. This word “remain” carries the idea to “abide in.” There is a sense of consistency. This is to endure and to be steadfast. To those who remain, abide, patiently endure and remain steadfast in Christ, the promise is eternal life. That point is not lost in the theological debate. Neither should we lose that point. Let’s pray.

Antichrists

John offers two important elements in the first words of verse 18. “Dear children” carries the idea of his deep affection for his reader. “This is the last hour” carries the sense of urgency. The early church understood from the time of Jesus’ ascension, the last hour began. The debate about this passage begins here. There are some who want to take John to task over the use of this phrase. Some suggested that John along with the other apostles are to be ignored since the “last hour” has not come. Peter’s second letter in 3:4 speaks of those who scoffed at the idea that Christ was going to return soon. Such scoffers some 30 years after Jesus’ ascension have multiplied since the 1^st century.

The debate may continue but the sense of urgency must not be lost. This is John’s point – Christ’s return is nearer now than it was then. We must not lose our sense of urgency. John continues the thought that the antichrist is coming and in fact numerous antichrists have already come. The debate continues by focusing on the term antichrist.

Some suggest that John and others like Paul in 2 Thessalonians 2 have the idea of a particular person who is “The Antichrist” who will usher in a time of great persecution against the believers.

Others suggest that John is writing about an attitude.

Still others suggest that John is aligning himself with Jesus in Matthew 24 in which Jesus spoke of the abomination that causes desolation.

John’s description that the last hour and the antichrist coincide seems to suggest that John is speaking more of an attitude than a specific event or person. However, in verse 19, John defines the antichrist as numerous and further defines them as those who have pulled away from the body of believers. These who pulled away do not belong to fellowship of believers and thus do not enjoy fellowship with God. As John said in 1:3, fellowship with the believers verifies fellowship with God.

In verse 20, John mentions the anointing. The debate continues.

Some suggest that the anointing has to do with the Holy Spirit.

Some suggest that it has to do with the Word of God.

Some suggest a combination of both.

The word “anointing” uses the same word as the word “Christ.” Christ means the anointed one or Messiah. We have an anointing from the Holy One. This phrase “holy one” is used to speak about God or Jesus depending on the text. Verse 27 tells us that the anointing is within us.

Then in verse 24 John says to hold on the preached word and allow it to remain inside of you. Thus, it seems that the anointing is both the Spirit of God and the word. The word is that which we heard; the Spirit verifies the word; supports the word. John will later in chapters 4 & 5 discuss the Spirit of truth.

The word and the Spirit together remind us of the truth. Together the Spirit and the word help us to know what is false. John says in verse 22 that those who deny that Jesus is the anointed one of God is the antichrist. One cannot deny Jesus and be in relationship with God. Those who pulled away from God’s people denied that Jesus came in the flesh. They denied that Jesus was who he claimed to be. John previously wrote that they deceived themselves; now he calls them liars and encourages his readers not to be swayed by their arguments. According to verse 26, these are trying to lead them astray. They are offering arguments why Jesus could not be who he claimed to be. Thus, John says they are liars and do not have fellowship with God because of their denial of Jesus as the Christ.

Remain

Two points that we need to get from this text. First, to remain in Christ means to remain in him in terms of faith. But it means also to remain without being swayed by other possibilities. There are any number of existing possibilities. Sometimes those possibilities are more easily seen than others.

There are those groups who acknowledge the Jesus existed but do not believe in him as the Son of God or see him as a lesser god or believe that he was born of God. To hold to such will not allow us to remain in Jesus.

There are those who with their learning begin to denigrate the person of Jesus. Like in the days of John the learning leads to professing greater insight into the realities of God. Such does not allow remaining in Christ.

There are those who claim to hold on to the reality of Jesus while combining it with inner strength and a view that Christ plus something is necessary to be a Christian. Such does not allow us to remain in Christ.

John is clear. Allowing the word of truth to remain in us allows us to remain in Christ. The leading of the Spirit helps us to avoid the appealing lies of those who deny the Christ.

Second, promise. In verse 25, John uses a word that is not found often in John’s writings. In fact, it is not found at all except here in verse 25. It is the word “promise.” For those who remain in Christ; for those who allow what was heard from the beginning to remain in them; for those who remain in the Father because they remain in the Son – this is what God has promised – eternal life.

This must be important for John because he uses this word only this one time in all of his writings. The implication is present in other places. John could have used the word “know.” He is fond of that word. It is the idea of assurance.

But John isn’t wanting us merely to “know.” That word calls on us to acknowledge what is internal. But the word “promise” is external. In fact, when a person makes a promise to us we expect for the words to be carried through.

Booker T. Washington describes meeting an ex-slave from Virginia in his book Up From Slavery : “I found that this man had made a contract with his master, two or three years previous to the Emancipation Proclamation, to the effect that the slave was to be permitted to buy himself, by paying so much per year for his body; and while he was paying for himself, he was to be permitted to labor where and for whom he pleased. “Finding that he could secure better wages in Ohio, he went there. When freedom came, he was still in debt to his master some three hundred dollars. Notwithstanding that the Emancipation Proclamation freed him from any obligation to his master, this black man walked the greater portion of the distance back to where his old master lived in Virginia, and placed the last dollar, with interest, in his hands. In talking to me about this, the man told me that he knew that he did not have to pay his debt, but that he had given his word to his master, and his word he had never broken. He felt that he could not enjoy his freedom till he had fulfilled his promise.”

If we expect a sinful frail human being to carry through with a promise, how much more can we expect the God of heaven and earth who is light; who has not darkness in him to carry through with his promise. Are you in Christ? Does God’s promise belong to you?

Purpose

: To remind that this world is temporary. The real reward is to do the will of God.

Introduction

There is much in this world that is commendable. Art, music, literature – all which can either be a manifestation of God’s image of creativity found in man or can be debased and a demonstration of sin within man. Sports which can be an attempt to compete or an attempt to devalue those who are beaten. Creation as a demonstration of God’s ability to paint the vast array of color on a blank canvas or creation taken and abused and misused by those created for selfish means to ignore the needs of others.

That which is available to us can bring both pleasure and corruption. It is this perspective which John discusses in our brief text this morning. Verses 15-17 is written to those who are in good standing. This is not intended for those who are in spiritual danger. This is not intended for those who have pulled away from the body of believers. This text is intended for the believers who want to do the will of God. This text stands out for one particular reason. Up to this point, John has been writing as if this were a sermon. He has been teaching, encouraging, expounding – but now he gives a command. It is this imperative which grabs the reader’s attention. “Do not love the world or anything in the world.” The initial readers would have perked up as this command was read.

So should we. As verses 12-14 served to assure the readers about their salvation and to encourage to remain faithful, verses 12-14 also serve to set up this imperative. Your salvation is sure; demonstrate your maturity as older believers and demonstrate your struggle to overcome the evil one as younger believers. And in all cases do not allow the world to infiltrate your life. This command is worthy of our consideration as well. There is much to commend in this world. There is also much to stay away from. John says that the world has nothing to offer us. Let’s not take the edge off of this. Let’s make sure that we pause and think about the world’s influence on each of us.

Timeless Truths

Two words to dissect as we begin.

The word “world” carries the idea of darkness. It is the realm of evil. It is the idea that which is in rebellion against God. John uses this same idea in his gospel account. In John 12:46, John writes, “I have comes into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.” Here we see the parallel between world and darkness. Jesus came as light into darkness. The world is the place of darkness.

The word “love” is interesting. It is the same word that is used in 2:10 in which one “loves” his brother. In that text, the idea is to have caring compassion for another. To love another is to seek what is best for that person. To love the world is to seek what is best for darkness. Notice John’s usage in his gospel account 3:19: “This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.” To love the world is to seek what is best for self and for sin.

John says “do not love the world or anything in the world.” Don’t seek what you want. Do not expand darkness. As he has reminded his readers in 2:8, the darkness is passing and their pursuit of the world only adds to darkness. But the command doesn’t simply say not to do something. John also tells us why we do not love the world. Love for the world and love for God are incompatible. One cannot love the world and God at the same time. One cannot be light while pursuing darkness.

As he explains in verse 16 – everything in the world comes not from the Father but from the world. The world cannot produce goodness. It can only produce more of itself. The world is in open rebellion to God. Rebellion gives birth to more rebellion. The world is not passive. It is a rival to God and it moves toward evil.

And in verse 17, the reason to not love the world is given two more reasons.

The world is passing away. Why would you pursue that which is not going to last. It is temporary.

Aligning with God brings life eternal.

The World

Someone may say, “but there are good things in this world. You even said there were good things in this world at the beginning of your lesson.” There are good things. John defines what he means with three distinct divisions. There are things which have not come from God. These things have no connection with God in intent or purpose. These things are examples of the darkness which exists.

First, the “cravings of sinful man.” Literally the desire of the flesh. In a narrow sense, John speaks of the sensual. That which is carnal. John isn’t saying sex is worldly but that which reflects the darkness. In the broadest sense that which leads us to declare our independence from God is from the world. The desires of this world pull at us; tug at us; we hanker for that which will bring pleasure. And as we give in to those things we announce our independence from God.

Second, the lust of our eyes. This speaks of our greed. We see what is around us and we want more. Every year, we sit at Christmas and say “I don’t need anything” and then begin searching catalogs and other things to determine what we “need.” We want more because we see more to want.

Third, The boasting of what one has and does. Pride. Boasting to impress. Proud of accomplishments and accumulation. Put a bunch of preachers in a room together and they will begin to boast about what their congregation is doing. How large it is and their good works. Put a bunch of educated people in a room and watch how the pecking order is decided. These three things are against the light. These three things encourage the darkness. Is it any wonder that John says to not set our affection on this world nor the things that belong to this world.

Those who pursue the best and the worst of this world live in darkness. The accumulation of the best doesn’t make one rise above the person who pursue the worst of this world. Both are from the world and both are in opposition to the will of God. This world is temporary. It is passing away. Do not be blind to what is going on. Jesus in Luke 12:54-56 said the same thing: “When you see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, ‘It’s going to rain,’ and it does. And when the south wind blows, you say, ‘It’s going to be hot,’ and it is. Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. How is it that you don’t know how to interpret this present time?

Are we so blind?

Every day people die. Most die before they reach 100 and those who pass that age do not last much beyond.

Economies rise and fall. As we get excited about the stock market going up, we face a recession. The cycle continues. We cannot sustain unlimited prosperity.

Buildings are built and others are torn down. The ancient buildings lie in ruins. The great palaces and places of power are gone. Are we so foolish to believe that buildings that we construct will last forever?

Great strides have been made to treat disease, but disease continues. We know how to make the quality of life better and to lengthen years, but we cannot stop disease fully and completely.

Can you not see that the world is temporary? Can you not see that the world and its desires pass away? Can you not see that accomplishments and accumulation cannot keep disease, decline, or death away?

Ben Sira from early in the 2^nd century B.C. wrote the following prayer: “O Lord, Father and God of my life, do not give me arrogant eyes and remove evil desire from me.” May this be our prayer as well.

1 John 2:7-14

Purpose

: The will of God includes not sinning and loving others.

Introduction

John writes his letter to God’s people in order to reassure and bring confidence in their walk with God. Uncertainty has entered because a group claiming special insight and knowledge have pulled away. Their absence and claims have left a void and a loss of spiritual confidence. John deals with this separation in a number of ways.

First, he reminds his readers that his testimony about Jesus was verified by many others who also saw, heard, and touched Jesus. Second, he says that maintaining fellowship with him and the other eyewitnesses results in fellowship with God. Third, claims made about sinlessness results in self-deception and calling God a liar. Such claims demonstrate that fellowship with God has been broken. Fourth, claims to know God and character of life must be consistent. To claim to know God and yet do not obey him reveals further deception.

In our text this morning, John continues to compare claims and actions. One’s claims and how one’s lives life must be consistent. Inconsistency in living an ethically moral life demonstrates that God’s truth is not a part of a person’s life. However, as John continues to make his point, he also takes time to reassure his readers of his confidence in their walk with God. As we continue our study, our opportunity to evaluate the consistency of our life with God’s will is present. But in that evaluation we must not lose sight of the assurance of our salvation and confidence which comes. While we examine, we also want to be reassured. But without examination, the assurance is false. Let’s examine.

New and Old Command

We seek what is best for us. Some are more ruthless than others about getting what they want, but we all seek what is best for us. One of our real struggles (assuming that we are trying to fight against the temptation) is to lessen our emphasis on self and seek more ways to be selfless. Verse 7 begins in the NIV with “Dear friends.” The single word in the text is the word “Beloved.” This word is used frequently in John’s letter. Addressing the entire group, John wants them to have assurance about their walk with God. This word carries two ideas: closeness and recipients of divine favor. What makes this word so significant is that it is the word that is used by God to describe Jesus in Matthew 3:17 (Jesus’ baptism), Matthew 12:18 (Matthew’s use of Isaiah’s prophetic message to prove that Jesus is the Messiah), and Matthew 17:5 (the Transfiguration). It isn’t chance that John uses a word that God used to describe his son, Jesus. Verse 7 then is the idea “my closest friends and those who are loved by God just as Jesus is loved by God.” Powerful beginning.

John continues in verse 7 writing what may seem to be rather cryptic. But it isn’t. Back in John 13:34, Jesus told the disciples “A new command I give you that you love one another.” He goes on to say that others will be able to know that we belong to God because of the way Jesus’ disciples love each other.

John’s cryptic writing is plainly said in 3:11. Notice that the word “beginning” is used in both texts. This new, old command has been around from the beginning. It is old because it has been around for some time, but it is new because each generation must learn how to express such a command. John says in verse 8 that when this command is lived out in the Christian’s life darkness is dispelled.

Verse 9 expresses the situational reality. Those who have pulled away claim to be in the light. Back in 1:5, John has said God is light; thus, the claim is to be in the will of God. John reminds his readers that the pulling away has resulted in a breaking of fellowship. For John to be in the light means that one practices love for his brothers. By pulling away they are practicing hatred toward the family of God. John leaves no middle ground. One either loves the brothers or hates them. To pull away demonstrates hatred not love. Such actions cannot support the claim to be in the light.

As verse 11 makes clear, John says that the claim to be in the light must be supported by the action of love. The one who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is in darkness and has deceived himself into thinking that everything is okay. It isn’t. The darkness blinds. As John says in verse 10, those who act in loving ways towards others walk in the light. One’s claim to walk in the light must be met with actions that demonstrate love toward others. Otherwise, the claim is a lie and the truth is that there is only darkness.

This is the examination part. Learning to love each other is a tall order. It means to think of others first rather than to think of self. One cannot claim to belong to God and treat fellow believers in selfish ways. Those who pulled away from the body of believers thought their special insight and knowledge allowed them to not only look down on others but to severe the fellowship. This severing of the bond of unity was not only sinful but demonstrated hatred toward others.

So we must examine ourselves. Do we love each other as God would want us to?

Do we think of others before thinking of self?

Do we actively seek what is best for others before seeking what is best for self?

Look around at those sitting around. Do you love them? Seek what is best for them? Lord’s Supper.

Reassurance

Verses 12-14 serve as a set of statements to reassure the readers while at the same time setting up verses 15-17. Today we will use them to bring confidence to our walk in the light. There is some debate about the three groups that John addresses. Dear children, fathers, young men. I think what John is doing is using the phrase “dear children” to address the entire congregation just as he did in 2:1. Then he uses the term “fathers” to address older members and “young men” the younger members. I do not think he is trying to speak only to men in these verses.

The reassurance comes in the collective sense – your sins have been forgiven because of Jesus. Forgiveness of sins isn’t based on what one does but on what Jesus has already done. The idea of “name” includes character and power of deeds. John says he is writing to reassure. Sins have been forgiven.

To the older members he says, he writes because they have known God who is from the beginning. His reassurance focuses on the maturity of knowing God. To the younger he writes because they have overcome the evil one through the word of God . Collectively sins have been forgiven. The maturity of God is seen in the older and the strength of youth in overcoming strong temptation is seen in the young. John reassures his readers that they are walking in the light.

What would it take to reassure you and to help you gain confidence? John’s writing makes walking in the light very practical. Walking in the light means that we love the brothers. It has nothing to do with educational background or achievement; it has nothing to do with supposed insight and knowledge. To walk in the light means that we not only put sin behind us but that we pursue what is best for others. You decide which category you belong to but the following truths need to be understood.

The older members are to demonstrate the maturity of walking with God. We are to be steady; not easily blown by the winds of change or the actions of others. We are steadfastly holding to the God who is from the beginning.

Younger members are to demonstrate their strength and the power of God’s word by overcoming the evil one. We need each other and we seek what is best for each other.

Collectively we know that our sins are forgiven through the work of Jesus. Are you walking in the light?

Purpose: To lead the listener to recommit to the struggle to stop sinning but know that Jesus defends us when we do sin.

Introduction

John writes to restore confidence in God’s people. Shaken by the claims and actions of others, God’s people are having a hard time maintaining their faith. In the first chapter, John reassures the people in a number of ways:

John’s testimony joins with the testimony of others and thus is true.

John verifies that Jesus was seen, heard, touched. There is no doubt he was real and in the flesh.

God’s people who hold to these truths share in fellowship with John who has fellowship with God.

God is Light; no evil is in him. Those who have pulled away are not walking in the light. Those who remain faithful walk in the light and have fellowship with each other and with God.

Those who have pulled away have sinned. Their claim to be without sin in this matter is self-deceiving.

Those who claim to have never sinned are calling God a liar and thus fellowship with God is severed.

Beginning in chapter 2, John turns his attention directly to his readers. As he has dealt with those who have pulled away initially, he now turns his attention to those who remain who are hurting and needing reassurance. His discussion about the sin of those who have pulled away leads to his desire to reassure God’s people. But his reassurance is to call them to a higher commitment of walking in the light. Since God is Light and they are walking in the light, then John does not want them to minimize the impact of sin in their lives. As we study together today, may we hear the John’s call to God’s people today to walk more consistently in the light knowing that God will forgive those who sin.

Seriousness of Sin

These two verses are packed with meaning. “My dear children” suggests the closeness of John’s relationship with his readers. Not only is the relationship viewed from a family perspective but the use of the word “children” suggests that John’s role is that of patriarch. He is the leader. He is the “father” to these children. Not only is their relationship close but the expectation is that John’s words will be given considerable weight as they are read. As a revered father writing to his child, the expectation is for the child to read, understand, and follow his father’s words. Beyond the physical family illustration, John is the spiritual leader of these people. His words are to be obeyed not merely read.

The Struggle

The focus of this text is often on the advocacy and sacrifice of Jesus. Such a focus is warranted. We need to be reminded of the greatness of our helper. Without Jesus we have no standing with God. With Jesus, our standing only takes place because of who Jesus is and what he has done. We cannot claim any standing with God on our own merits. This emphasis must not be ignored.

However, the intent of the text is found in the very first words. “I write this to you so that you will not sin.” This is the goal. This is not only John’s desire but the intent was that the readers would share in this goal. No sin. Not perfection – John’s reminder of our remedy for the problem of sin demonstrates he is not anticipating perfection. What he does anticipate is that God’s people will be trying not to sin.

Our culture (and every culture that has existed) has minimized sin. People believe that evil exists but most believe that their acts of sin would not fall into the category of evil.

The person who tells a “white lie” does not consider their deed evil; in fact, the person may call that “fudging the truth, stretching the truth, augmenting the truth” but not lying.

The person who assassinates the character of another supports their evil by saying “you know what I am telling you is true.” That which is evil is called good. This minimizes the sin.

The person who uses words which are crude, cursing, or hateful excuses their behavior by calling herself as “plain spoken.” Evil still exists but now is given a new more acceptable label.

We make all kinds of excuses for our behavior. We blame others; we lessen the intensity of the act; we even respond with “what’s the big deal?” The deal is that it is sin. It adds to evil in this world.

As God’s people our task is to avoid sin. It is to struggle against sin. The idea of struggle suggests that we are actively avoiding the sin as we are tempted. Temptation comes to each one of us. The struggle means we wrestle with the temptation. We wrestle it to the ground and we refuse to allow it to invade our lives. The temptation to speak in anger is wrestled so that compassion comes out instead of judgment. The temptation to protect self at the cost of truth is wrestled so that we bring honestly and integrity into this world rather than evil. Our problem is that to minimize sin is to treat the sacrifice of Jesus with the same casualness. Some have developed the idea that “my job is to sin and God’s job is to forgive.” Your job is to not sin. And when the sin comes, God will forgive. To presume upon the sacrifice of Jesus is to assume your sin is no big deal. Evil in any form is a big deal.

The point is not perfection. The point is to engage the struggle.

Sin doesn’t have to win. Jesus gives victory when sin comes.

Purpose

: To align with God, one must confess sin; alignment with God and others is synonymous.

Introduction

If you have ever been part of a congregational split then you know how damaging it is to the spirit and confidence of members who remain behind. Those who pull away usually feel justified in some way by doing so but the emotional damage done to those who are left behind cannot be underestimated. God has blessed us here at Park Avenue with a wonderful spirit of unity. This hasn’t always been the case but it has for well over 20 years. We do not take such for granted. As we often pray, may we do everything within our power to preserve this gift from God.

John is having to deal with the congregational fallout after some have withdrawn from the congregation. Those who withdrew believe themselves to be more spiritually insightful. They believe that their special knowledge results in their being more spiritual than others. John writes this letter to deal with the resulting lack of confidence for those who remain. You can almost hear the questions: Are we not as spiritual? Are we missing out on some special knowledge? Maybe our teacher (the apostle John) has held out on us?

What John writes to encourage those who remain in the congregation. He writes to assure and to give insight for their confidence. From the first four verses he makes it clear that his testimony about Jesus was not his alone. There are numerous others who could testify. But he also says that real fellowship is found with those who are eyewitnesses to the ministry of Jesus. The implication is clear – those who have pulled away have given up their fellowship with us. John presses the point that fellowship with “us” means that we have fellowship with God. Those who have withdrawn do not have fellowship with the eyewitnesses and thus they do not have fellowship with God. The claims to special insight and knowledge has resulted in loss of partnership with God and his people.

In today’s text, John continues this thought. In this section John has a conversation with those who have withdrawn. Whether it is a supposed conversation or a rehearsal of a conversation, it isn’t difficult to understand the point nor difficult to see the flow of the conversation. John’s writing has great relevance to us who live in a culture that refuses to acknowledge the Lordship of Jesus. As John intends, so each lesson is intended to remind us of the confidence we have in our walk with God. Let’s be encouraged.

Three Claims

John’s writing is filled with definitive statements. John’s purpose is to clearly differentiate between those who have fellowship with God’s people and those who do not. For John it isn’t possible to have partial fellowship with God’s people. One either is in fellowship or one is not. The basis of this definitive stance is the nature of Jesus. Those who have withdrawn do not regard Jesus as having come in the flesh. John is not arrogant in his writing but he is definite. One cannot deny Jesus and claim fellowship with God. John, however, places the emphasis on fellowship with God’s people. To withdraw from God’s people is to sever fellowship with God’s people. Fellowship with God is only possible through fellowship with God’s people.

One of John’s definitive statements is found in verse 5. God is light. This is the idea that God is completely good and that no darkness or evil is found in him. Some scholars regard this as the central theme to the entire writing. Based on what is to immediately follow, there is no doubt that John’s point is to insist that only those in fellowship with God can be in the light and those who have withdrawn are not connected to the Light as they would like to believe.

Beginning in verse 6, John has a conversation with those who have withdrawn. Three claims are made by those who believe they have special insight and knowledge. John deals with each claim with the truth that God is light serving as the backdrop for real fellowship.

Claim #1 – We have fellowship with God. Those who have pulled away claim to be in partnership with God. John’s counter is on two fronts.

First, this claim is true only if one lives in the light. Those who have pulled away are living in the sin or darkness. They are liars. While John does not tell us what the sin is; he will mention later that they do not acknowledge the fleshly existence of Jesus.

Second, the claim fails to acknowledge fellowship with others. To live in the light means to live in partnership with others. These have pulled away. They cannot have fellowship with God when they do not have fellowship with God’s people.

Claim #2 – We are without sin. Those who have withdrawn see themselves as sinless. John’s counter to this argument is to demonstrate that they are lying to themselves. They are lying about their situation. Such is sin. This self-deception needs to be dealt with through confession. This self-deception means that there is no truth in them. There is no share in the divine reality – sin must be confessed in order for there to be forgiveness. John doesn’t regard these who have withdrawn as belonging to God (2:19).

Claim #3 – We have not sinned. The difference between the previous claim and this claim is found in the timing. The previous claim “we are without sin” is in the present. In other words, we are currently without sin. This claim perhaps is understood better with the insertion of the word “ever.” We have not ever sinned. Not now and not ever. John’s rebuttal focuses on God. To make this claim is to say that God is a liar. God declares that everyone is a sinner. In fact, he says that as part of his nature, he will forgive sin. Thus, if there are those who do not sin then God has lied about his nature and his ability. John further says that to make this claim illustrates that God’s word is not in the heart of those who have withdrawn. The point is clear that this claim severs fellowship with God.

Application

Two truths. First, one cannot have fellowship with God and avoid having fellowship with his people. There are a number of reasons why people avoid being part of congregational life. Some believe that congregational life is not necessary. One can have fellowship with God without fellowship with God’s people. Others become frustrated by the imperfection of congregational life. For some expectations are not met and thus they withdraw from congregational life. Imperfect people come together to form imperfect congregations. Another person’s sin is never reason enough to withdraw from congregational life. That allows another’s sin to hold sway over you. Another’s sin is never a viable excuse for withdrawing from congregational life.

John is clear. If one wants to have fellowship with God; one must have fellowship with his people. In John’s specific situation, withdrawal from God’s people believing special knowledge allowed such meant that they also withdrew from God’s fellowship.

In our specific situation, fellowship with God’s people is not optional. One cannot claim fellowship with God and ignore his people. At a minimum this applies to attendance at an assembly. To share with God’s people in worship is a minimal point of fellowship. But more broadly this includes sharing wealth for the benefit of others; sharing gifts for the building up of the body. The person who withholds God’s spiritual gift from the body is withholding fellowship from God as well.

Fellowship with God is predicated on fellowship with his people. To ignore God’s people is to ignore God’s fellowship. It is through fellowship with God’s people that we learn that God is Light.

Second, confession brings forgiveness. John is calling for those who have withdrawn from God’s people to repent and return. The assurance is that God will forgive, but confession precedes forgiveness. Confession means to agree with. This carries the idea that confession results in agreeing with God’s assessment of us – I am a sinner. An unwillingness to admit such results in our sin not being forgiven. Like the Pharisee in Luke 16, we may exalt our purity to God but the result is that we go home unjustified. It is the one who beats his chest and says “Have mercy on me a sinner” who goes home justified. Our reluctance to admit the truth results in our lacking forgiveness. But the promise of John is that confession brings quick forgiveness. No hesitation on God’s part when we agree with him about our condition. So often confession comes only after being found out. John’s point is that we are active in confession rather than reactive. Confession leads to forgiveness and compassion. Ill. – Counseling and reactions. Will you confess your sins and allow God to fulfill his promise to forgive?

Purpose

: When presented with the choice affecting our eternal destiny, we will choose Jesus.

Introduction

Holiday season. Typically we begin to see the increase in crowds. The day after Thanksgiving is called Black Friday. Big sales. People shopping. Last year a person was trampled to death in a stampede entering into a Wal-Mart. Tragic. I have gotten up a few times at a very early hour to participate in Black Friday. Didn’t like it. Maddening. But I know for some this is a big deal. The thrill of the hunt, the claiming of that special gift; the crowds.

Ever been in a large crowd? I have been in crowds of 60,000+ a couple of times. I suppose the biggest crowd was at a football game in Knoxville. Over 100,000 people in one place. It was deafening. The traffic was horrendous. But most of the crowd was cheering for the same team. Exciting too. I don’t know what you think about crowds. Some like them; some don’t. Rush hour in Memphis is a piece of cake compared to Dallas and Atlanta and Los Angeles but it is frustrating at times as well.

Choosing the path of life is not always easy. Robert Frost in his poem “The Road Not Taken” writes of the choices we make. Perhaps you have read the poem. Frost describes his experience of having to choose life’s path. At a fork in the road, Frost examined the paths that led in different directions. One appeared well worn; the other was less traveled. Frost’s contemplation resulted in choosing what appeared to be the less worn path. But as he traveled it, he discovered the path he chose was also worn albeit less so. Frost’s view is seen in the first stanza when he writes: “Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both.” Choices must be made. Frost said the poem was tricky. Some have interpreted his poem to praise individualism. It isn’t. Frost’s last stanza is quite insightful:

I shall be telling this with a sigh Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.

It is with a sigh that he tells his story; somewhere in the future. The point – we must all choose life’s path. By choosing we eliminate other paths. But the choice makes the difference. But the choice also does not allow us to look back and decide what “might have been.” The choice made results in a path taken. There will be no time to return to the fork and take a “do over.” This is life. Thus, it means that we need to choose wisely.

At the last day some will stand before God and say something like “Lord, I went to church all the time, I gave when the collection plate came around, I read my Bible and I prayed my prayers, I took the Lord’s Supper. And I did it all to please you?” And Jesus will say “I never knew you.” Well if church going, Lord’s Supper eating, Bible reading, and money giving will not save then what will? Doing the will of God. It isn’t the mighty works that makes the difference, but the attitude toward God. Who we are determines how we act. And who we are is kingdom people whose attitudes are shaped and molded by the spirit of God. Who do works in order to honor God. Who do the right things for the right reasons. The former group basis their salvation on their mighty deeds. Doing the right things for personal glory. But kingdom people do the right things for God’s glory.

For some the choice to follow Jesus is seen as a matter of what one does. Do the right things and God will reward. This is not the point that Jesus makes. His point is have the attitude of God and God will reward. Which gate you choose matters. Some will say they chose the narrow gate and will point to their works as proof. Jesus says those who choose the narrow gate think differently:

There is a humility of spirit which refuses to exalt self and ideas but instead acknowledges poverty of spirit.

There is great mercy extended to others because of the recognition of the great mercy that has been received.

There is a focus on the heart rather than on externals.

There is a refusal to pursue the things of this world and to wring one’s hands about this life.

There is a desire to align with God’s thinking.

This is the life of the one who has chosen the narrow gate. Life is waiting for those who choose the narrow gate. But for those who turn away from the narrow gate there is destruction – eternal separation from God. The gate you choose matters.

Purpose

: To develop a spirit of humility and grace toward others.

Introduction

Each generation has individuals which make a mark in our society. These individuals are often obscure until through an event or series of events they come into the limelight. Such a person was Marian Anderson. Marian Anderson was born in Philadelphia in 1897 and through a series of events became one of the greatest singers of the 20^th century. Her contralto voice was considered by many to be the best voice to come along in the last 100 years. As a singer, her career lasted over 40 years and during that time there were many firsts for her. You see, Marian Anderson was African American. Her talent was not always appreciated in a white majority society. As a young girl, her father was killed in an accident and she, her siblings, and mother supported by family made it through.

In an interview in the 1950s, Anderson was asked to describe the best moment of her career. And she had numerous great moments.

The night that Toscanini told her that a voice like hers only came once every 100 years.

The night that she sang in a private concert for the president and dignitaries at the White House.

The day she was recognized as one of the great representatives for the city of Philadelphia.

The day in 1939 in which she sang in front of the Lincoln Memorial to a crowd of 75,000 including all the upper echelon of Washington, D.C. and to a radio crowd across the nation.

She chose none of those events. The day and event she chose was one which no one would have guessed. Anderson said it was the day she told her mother that she would no longer have to take in laundry to make ends meet.

Humility. True humility comes from a confidence about who God is in your life with no need to prove yourself otherwise. While we see humility without a spiritual dimension in our world, the real humility comes from the child of the King who wants nothing more than for God to be seen and revealed in our lives. As children of the King, our main concern is that God be seen in his greatness and glory. We cannot make God look good and ourselves look good at the same time. In our text this morning, Jesus speaks about humility from a perspective which helps us to see our faults first. Seeing ourselves accurately leads to how we treat others.

Continuation

Jesus continues the thought from the previous section. Let’s get the context. Reminding the hearers that God rewards in secret, Jesus clarifies that this reward is spiritual. To pursue the treasures of this earth believing that they can bring ultimate security is to miss God’s reward. In fact, anxiety is a sign of our misplaced priorities. Jesus says his followers are concerned about the reign of God. We want God’s kingdom to be seen in its power. Our anxiety distracts from how others see God’s kingdom. Stay focused on revealing God’s reign in this world.

This leads into the next thought. Seeking God’s rule in this world means that we gain a clearer vision for this world. Anxiety detracts from that vision. So does our inability to see our own sin clearly. While the word “righteousness” is not used in this section, the idea permeates the text. Jesus says that our righteousness must exceed that of the Pharisees. No superficiality allowed. Genuine righteousness is interested in seeking the reign of God in this world.

This means that when we look at others we refrain from judging them. This may be the most often misquoted text in the Bible. Jesus says to not judge another person. But that is not all he says. There are two primary ways in which we judge. One is to discern right from wrong. Surely Jesus isn’t telling us not to discern between right and wrong actions. The other form of judgment is to condemn another in an act of self-righteous criticism. Verse 2 helps us to understand that this is the meaning that Jesus has in mind. To judge another harshly is to judge ourselves harshly. The attitude we have toward another will be the same attitude God takes toward us.

To see ourselves as superior to another is to judge with pride.

To judge one person by one standard and ourselves by another is to be judgmental.

This is the intent of the text. Our righteousness must treat others with mercy and forgiveness.

Jesus gives the example of dirt in the eye. It was intended to illicit laughter. It is intended to be funny and exaggerated. A speck of dust in one man’s eye causes concern, but we do not see the beam in our own eye. This beam was the support of a building. We see a man who has a flaw and criticize his inability to rid himself of this malady. We even offer to help him to make him better. At the same time, we do not notice the enormity of our own flaw. Jesus says “work on yourself before you start working on someone else.”

Application

While our culture tries to force this section to mean that we are not even to discern between right and wrong, this is not what Jesus has in mind. The point is simply stated – do not look down on another person believing yourself to be superior. To do so is to condemn them and such an attitude will result in your being judged in the same way. Jesus’ words have to do with our attitude and our attempt to reflect the character of God in this world.

To be accepting of another means that we have to take a hard look at ourselves first. We have to be willing to admit that our imperfection doesn’t leave room for spiritual smugness. When you find yourself thinking or saying out loud ” I would never do that.” Stop!! We have to recognize that one person’s failure may not be ours but it doesn’t make us superior. Because we have our own failures.

Maybe pornography is not an issue with you and you can’t imagine how anyone would get drawn into that. But you would cheat on your spouse by thinking of another.

Maybe you can’t imagine how someone could lie, but then you find yourself fudging on your work time. Listening to Tim Russert’s book “Wisdom of Our Fathers.” He tells the story of the factory workers who 10 minutes before clock out time would go and wash their hands and then clock out. But one man refused to follow. He worked till quitting time and then washed his hands. Why? Because they did not pay him to wash his hands.

Maybe drugs and alcohol are not your issue, but prescriptions have become your crutch to make it in this world.

Jesus’ application is much more direct. Verse 6 is debated. Jesus is endorsing the first form of judging. Some are going to be able to understand this teaching. Others will not. Those whose hearts cannot understand we must be careful not to allow them to misuse the intent of his message. The gospel is intended to bring freedom but not freedom to live any way we want. Some use Jesus’ words as license to be immoral; Jesus says that some will use the gospel to act contrary to the will of God. These words are intended for those who have a pliable enough heart to hear them and to think about their own lives.

To state this directly. The King’s children develop humility. Spiritual pride goes against the directive of Jesus’ first statements. “Blessed are those who are poor in spirit.” Recognizing our spiritual poverty means there is compassion and mercy for those who sin

Purpose

: Worry and faith do not go together.

Introduction

Bobby McFerrin sang to us in 1988 “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” The only acapella song to reach #1; the song won several grammys including “Best Song.” It was a catchy tune. The background to the song is interesting. An guru from India used it as his signature philosophy throughout the middle of the 20^th century. McFerrin wrote the song because he liked the four words. In 1994, Disney gave us the movie “The Lion King.” And from that production came the song “Hakuna Matata,” a Swahili phrase meaning “no worries.”

And Jesus 20 centuries ago told us “do not worry about your life.” Words spoken and words difficult to follow. As with much of scripture the problem isn’t understanding the words but in allowing the words to change the way we think and act. Simply put the word worry means “to be anxious; to be troubled with cares.” Who of us haven’t been anxious or troubled with care? And Jesus says don’t worry about your life. Is that possible? And if it is possible, then how do we keep from worrying? Jesus supplies the answer.

The Text

Having completed the thought about choosing whether to pursue treasures on earth or pursuing that which God wants, Jesus turns his attention to the basic necessities of life. He is speaking to the poor. These are individuals who would have struggled to have food and clothes. These would have been people who depended on so many things out of their control. They couldn’t control the rain and sun for their crops. If the crops didn’t produce then there was no money for clothes or other necessities. And Jesus says “don’t worry.”

Jesus is very clear. Don’t worry about food, drink or clothes. God will see to such. In fact, he says that life is more important than food and the body is more important than clothes. Then he points to birds flying overhead as he teaches. Those birds have food to eat. God provides for them. People are more important than birds. Then he points to the flowers that are waving in the breeze as he teaches. Their beauty is assured by the hand of God. People are more important than flowers and grass.

Jesus’ point. God not only creates, he sustains. He is the provider. Birds and flowers have no ability to think or reason about their “needs.” But God sees that they have needs and supplies those needs. At the same time, neither the birds nor the flowers worry. But the birds do not sit idly waiting to be supplied. They work; they fly; but they do not worry. The flowers do not work at their beauty; they are beautiful because God made them that way. They do not worry about their appearance but demonstrate the majesty of God’s creative ability by being exactly as God created them to be.

And then Jesus uses the word “righteousness” in verse 33. Jesus has used this word from almost the beginning. It is a word which includes the ideas of right character and right conduct. When Jesus says to seek God’s righteousness, he is setting that against the righteousness of the Pharisees in 5:20. Instead of seeking the righteousness of the Pharisees whose conduct is based on a superficial understanding of the law, pursue the righteousness of God who is concerned about the attitudes and motivation for right conduct. Pursue God’s kingdom and righteousness. And then the last kicker. Don’t worry about tomorrow. Let today be your focus. You can’t control the future. Think about today and when tomorrow comes it will have its own challenges. Let tomorrow worry about itself.

I want us to pause here and use songs to encourage us to think on the words of Jesus. (Thomas my suggestions include the following. You are free to choose your own but these were songs that I was thinking about.)

#463 – I Don’t Know Who Holds Tomorrow

#555 – Seek Ye First

#57 – Great Is Thy Faithfulness

Prayer

Application

What does this text have to say to us? We who have full pantries, full closets, and running tap water? We who have no need to worry about food and clothes for many days? Jesus is giving a fuller and more complete look at kingdom attitudes about wealth. It is in the claim that we have enough that we must be careful. It is very easy to take on the view that I have food and clothes in abundance. A job that provides well. Safety nets abound- life insurance, medical insurance, retirement account. One of two things can happen. Either we become arrogant about our wealth in which case we have violated the kingdom attitude regarding earthly treasures. Or we continue to pursue more and more believing that what we have is not enough in which case we violate the kingdom attitude toward God’s provision.

The emphasis of the text is found in verse 33. Seek God’s kingdom. The word kingdom simply means the rule of God, the dominion of God, or the reign of God. As the King’s children we pursue, concentrate on, and focus on the Kingdom of God. This is what we are about. All we want is for God’s rule to become more significant in this world. As Jesus instructed in 6:10 we pray for God’s kingdom to come in this world as it has come in heaven. We want God to reign, have dominion over, and reign in this world. We want this so much that the last things we are going to be concerned about are things like food, clothing, and drink.

To have a closet full of clothes and complain about having nothing to wear or to want more is to seek our own comfort above the reign of God. To have a pantry full of food and complain about having nothing to eat is to lose sight of the kingdom of God. To have the desire to keep up with modern fashion trends is to focus on something other than the kingdom of God.

Jesus says the pagans pursue more. The pagans pursue and worry. The pagans think about accumulating and give their energy to the temporary. It is sin to worry about that which God has said he would provide. It is sin to seek something other than God’s kingdom. If we are seeking God’s kingdom and turning our focus on making sure God is seen rather than our desires then we will find great contentment in this world. And in a nutshell – worry is telling God “I am not content.” Worry is telling God “you don’t do enough.”

In 1993 three missionaries were kidnaped in Colombia, South America. For three long years, their wives and children did not know what happened to them. They were held for 5 million dollar ransom. Three years later they were executed. Do you think their wives are happy? Probably not. Is it possible for their families to be content? Listen to the wives of Mark Rich, David Mankins, and Rick Teneoff.

Those guerrillas have taken everything away from our husbands and lots away from us and our children, but one thing they can’t take away from us is our right to choose joy no matter what happens in our lives (Tania Rich, wife of Mark Rich).

It’s a trial of our faith. Since this happened, I have read Scripture with a new light, and my faith has grown deeper. I have realized that God doesn’t tell us he’ll get us out of situations, but he’ll be our strength through them (Nancy Mankins, wife of David Mankins).

We have a choice every day to pry our hands loose and give our husbands up to the Lord, saying, ‘They’re yours, Lord. Dave, Mark, and Rick are yours. Our lives are yours, and you can do whatever you please with them.’ That’s not easy, but every time I do, God is there to catch me up and help me walk above the circumstances (Patti Teneoff, wife of Rick Teneoff).

Seek God’s kingdom. Let God deal with what we need. Don’t sin by worrying about that which God has said he would provide.