Experiencing the Word of Life

Sabbath School Class—Life as Discovery and Hope

July 11, 2009

Larry R Evans

Introductory Reflections

It seems that two of the toughest things to get straight in life are a true understanding of the character of God and the nature of true love—whether it be for God or for one another. “My God!” has become a slang term of exclamation and has very little to do with one’s appeal to divine insight or a plea for help. Often the exclamation is used with very little respect or recognition of God. “Love”, on the other hand, is often used just as loosely and can cover all sorts of selfish acts of self-gratification. When God and love are separated confusion about both result. This has been the case in John’s day and so it is in ours. John will be addressing this dilemma in his letter but to lay the proper foundation he introduces Jesus as the “Word of life” at the very beginning. With this established the other pieces will come together. God’s character becomes the foundation for a unique fellowship built on a new order of love. While reading John, note how Jesus becomes the bridge to both. As the “Word of life” He becomes the essential link bringing meaning to a very confused world.

Reflective Quiz

1. Fellowship with others is fellowship with Christ. [1 Jn.1:3] True or False?

2. It is possible to have joy in the midst of pain and suffering. [1 Jn.3,4] True or False?

3. From a biblical perspective, the creation of man and his redemption must be linked. [ Jn.1-3; 1 Jn.1:1-4; Col.1:15,16] True or False?

4. When 1 Jn.1:1 refers to “beginning” in reference to Jesus John is implying that He was created for a special mission, i.e. our redemption. [Jn.1:1-3, 14; 1 Jn.1:1-3] True or False?

5. Jesus as the “Word of life” determines how our lives will be lived and how history will be written. [Dan.5:23; Acts 17:24-28; 1 Jn.1:5,7] True or False?

6. Eyewitnesses see the same truth differently. [1 Jn.1:1-3; 2 Pet.3:14-16] True or False?

7. Seeing is believing. [Deut.4:1-9; ;Matt.9:1-8; Acts 4:20] True or False?

8. We are the eyewitnesses of this generation. [1 Jn.2:9; Rev.12:11; 2 Cor.8:23-24; Col.1:3-8] True or False?

9. A true witness builds community. [1 Jn.1:3; 2 Sam.15:1-13] True or False?

10. Christ has no grandchildren nor does He have any orphans. [Matt.16:24,25; Jn.10:14-16; Acts 2:42-47; Rom.12:4,5] True or False?

[Due to other responsibilities there will be no additional notes this week.]

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