1 John 5:1-5
“1 Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and whoever loves the Father loves the child born of Him. 2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and observe His commandments. 3 For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome. 4 For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. 5 Who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? [1]” (1 John 5:1–5, NASB 95)
On Sunday, Pastor Jamey taught that Christian life isn't about trying harder at our own strength but about walking in the victory Christ has already secured for us. You know that Air Jordan illustration he used? It serves as a perfect reminder that "it's not about the shoes!" As we dig into 1 John 5:1-5 together, let's explore how our faith is the real game-changer in our spiritual lives.
On Sunday, Pastor Jamey taught that Christian life isn't about trying harder at our own strength but about walking in the victory Christ has already secured for us. You know that Air Jordan illustration he used? It serves as a perfect reminder that "it's not about the shoes!" As we dig into 1 John 5:1-5 together, let's explore how our faith is the real game-changer in our spiritual lives.
Discussion Questions
- Icebreaker: So, who remembers wanting Air Jordans because you thought they'd make you jump higher? Did you ever get them? Did they work? Share your best "trying to be like Mike" story... When's the last time you tried to fill someone else's shoes (literally or figuratively)?
- Did you catch that the word "victory" (Nike) John uses appears only once in the entire New Testament—right here in our passage? So, if our faith is literally the victory that has overcome the world, what does that mean for you personally right now? How does this change your perspective on everyday struggles?
- Look at verses 1 and 5—when we believe Jesus is the Christ, we're "born of God." What actually happened to you the moment you believed? Pastor Jamey talked about being rescued from darkness and becoming a new creation. How can remembering these truths help when you're going through a tough season?
- Notice how John connects loving God with keeping His commands. They go hand in hand; you cannot have one without the other. Have you found this to be true in your own experience? When has loving God made obeying Him feel more natural?
- The sermon frequently returned to "abiding" with Christ—spending real time with Him. What does that look like for you practically? What could you try this week to make that time happen? How might it change your approach to that relationship or the temptations you're dealing with?
- Pastor Jamey provided examples of loving challenging people and resisting temptation. What is your current struggle? How might addressing it through God's strength, rather than solely relying on willpower, impact your week?
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