Notes - 22nd October 06

Bible passage:
1 John 5:1-12

The Testimony of God

(1) In 1 John 5: 6-12 we hear of the testimony of God. What is this testimony and why is it necessary for God to testify?

(2) Sunday's sermon suggested that it is not possible for us to really know God simply by observing the world around us. Have a look at Romans 1:18 -21. Does this help us understand why we don't know God through the 'natural' world? Is God's character displayed in creation or not?

(3) Have a look at 1 John 5:6-8. These verses are difficult to understand. On Sunday morning it was said that the water and the blood probably referred to Jesus' baptism and crucifixion. What else might the terms 'the water' and 'the blood' refer to (hint, see John 19:31-37 and also Matthew 28:19 and 1 Corinthians 11: 23-26)?

(4) 1 John 5: 2-3 speaks of love in terms of obedience how does this correspond to definitions of love in contemporary society?

(5) If we are saved by grace (Ephesians 2:6&8) why must we still obey God's commands? Is obedience easy? If God's commands are not burdensome (5:3) where might our difficulties lie?

(6) See 1 John 5:11-12 what does it mean to 'have the Son'? And what difference does it make?