Episode 14: 1 John - Behind The Message
Episode description
During this week’s Behind The Message, Jennifer and Daniel discuss further the message taken from 1 John 2 on antichrists. Pastor Paul joins them and talks about some of the marks of an antichrist and offers practical steps to take in standing guard against their influence.
Big Truth:
ANTICHRISTS ARE ALL AROUND US
WHAT IS AN ANTICHRIST?
Big Ideas
An antichrist is someone who compels the heart to hope in false saviors instead of Jesus. (2:22)
Antichrists distort the truth, deceive the mind, and deny the gospel. (2:22-23, 26)
Marks of an Antichrist...
- Abandonment of God’s people (2:19)
- Denial of the gospel (2:22)
- Denial of the Trinity (2:22-23)
- Disregard for God’s Word (2:24-26)
- An elevation of new revelation over God’s Word (2:26-27)
WHY SHOULD WE BE CONCERNED?
Big Idea:
We are a people whose minds are prone to deception and whose hearts are prone to wander. (2:21-22, 26)
HOW SHOULD WE RESPOND?
Big Ideas:
We live with the urgency of eternity. (2:18, 28)
We hold fast our confession that Jesus alone is Lord and Savior. (2:23)
We know, love, obey, and share the Word of truth. (2:24)
We love God’s family. (2:19; 2:29-3:1)
We abide in Jesus. (2:28)
Discussion
Lead Group Members to discuss the following…
What Got You?
Ask your group members to each share a takeaway from the weekend’s sermon or from the BTM video that got them thinking or doing.
Read Jude 1:17-23. Discuss the following:
- In this passage, what are the listed characteristics of an antichrist?
- From this passage, identify ways that believers can guard against antichrists.
Read Romans 3:10-18. Answer the following questions:
- How does this passage stand in contrast to the teaching of the world?
- In light of this passage, why should believers be diligent in guarding against antichrists?
Consider the Big Ideas listed under the “How Should We Respond” section.
- Which of these big ideas are you implementing well and which of these big ideas do you need to work on most?
- Share with your discussion group a plan for working on the big idea you have identified.