THE BENCHMARKS OF BELIEF

1 John 3:11-18

Pastor David Steele

I. THE BENCHMARKS OF BELIEF

A. A TRUE BELIEVER IS A ______________________ ( 1 John 3:10).

B. A TRUE BELIEVER WILL ______________ PEOPLE (vv. 11-12, 16).

1. A ____________________ love.

2. A ____________________ love.

3. A ____________________ love.

C. A TRUE BELIEVER WILL EXPERIENCE _______________________ (v. 13).

D. A TRUE BELIEVER HAS A ____________________ (vv. 14-15).

E. A TRUE BELIEVER IS __________________ (v. 17).

F. A TRUE BELEIVER MAKES A __________________ IN THE LIVES OF PEOPLE (v. 18).

THE BENCHMARKS OF BELIEF

1 John 3:11-18

Discussion Questions

1. The relationship between faith and works is a crucial conversation. What is the Roman view? What is the Protestant view? What difference does it make?

2. Discuss the six benchmarks of belief?

    A true believer …

        a. is child of God

        b. will love people

        c. will experience persecution

        d. has a new heart

        e. is compassionate

        f. makes a difference in the lives of people

3. Do you struggle with any of these benchmarks?

4. Which benchmark(s) need the most attention in your life this week?

5. How would you counsel someone who cannot affirm that these benchmarks are characteristic of his/her life?

6. When you stand at the judgment seat, on what basis will you gain entrance into heaven?