THE LIGHT OF TRUTH AND FIRE OF LOVE

Balancing truth, love, and discernment is difficult. With incendiary language, we can make no claim to love. But love risks all – including truth-telling – for the sake of the other. We must love enough to tear down the carefully constructed philosophies of unbelievers so that they might be ready to receive the gospel. It also is true that Christians often love too little. We love too little to risk awkward conversations. We love too little to confront. We love too little to speak the truth. Yes, there is a type of person who argues only to win, and this is also a sin. In this short letter, John helps us navigate these challenges.

1. Walk in Truth                                                        (vv. 1-4)

2. Live in Love                                                        (vv. 5-6)

3. Beware of Deceivers                                       (vv. 7-11)

4. Value Fellowship                                           (vv. 12-13)