1 John 1:1-4
Reflect
The Apostle John wrote the book of 1 John to call the believers to love one another, as there was a lot of division due to the teaching of the Gnostics. He began his book by refuting their teaching that Jesus did not come in the flesh. He declared that he was an eyewitness to the fact that Jesus came in the flesh – for he had heard, seen and touched Him. It was important to establish that Jesus did come in the flesh, for redemption and forgiveness could only take place because of Jesus’ humanity and His divinity. If He hadn’t come in a physical body, how could He have died? The importance of the physical coming of Christ is mentioned in 1 John 4:2, 2 John 1:7, Gal. 4:4-5, and 2 Peter 1:16. This was crucial to the Gospel, to bring unbelievers into fellowship with those who already have this fellowship with God and His Son, Jesus Christ. It is bringing people into this fellowship that makes John’s joy complete.
Apply
There is a great mystery in the instant fellowship that occurs when we meet someone who is a fellow believer in Christ. There is great joy! May our joy increase as we invite others into this sweet fellowship.
Jerilyn Bayer
Pray
- For those who need to be encouraged in heart and united in love.
- Pray through the prayer page in the bulletin.
- Pray for Pastor Dan, our Lead Team Pastor and his family.
- Pray for our Lead Team Pastor Intern, Robyn Crown.
- Pray for our Hospitality Coordinator, Irene Dickau.
- Pray for our Congregational Life Pastor, Mike Bartusek and his family.
- Pray for our office staff: Robin Radke and Naomi Voss; Bookkeeper Lynette Carlson.