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Stand Your Ground

April 14, 2013 Series: Walking in the Light

Passage: 1 John 4:1–4:6

STAND YOUR GROUND

1 John 4:1-6

Pastor David Steele

 

I. _______________________ BETWEEN GOOD AND EVIL

    A. IMPERATIVE # 1: DO NOT ____________________ EVERYTHING YOU HEAR.

      The key words: _____ _______ ______________

      1. The reality: We ________________ every day.

 

II. ________________________ TRUTH FROM ERROR

    A. IMPERATIVE # 2: ___________ EVERYTHING YOU HEAR.

      The key word: _____________

      1. The reality: We ______________ every day.

      2. Observations that concern the mandate to discern:

  • A ________________ skill.
  • It takes _________________.
  • Involves making _______________________.
  • The final appeal is _____________________.
  • Assumes ___________ and _____________.
  • Assumes that truth is ___________________.

      3. The tests for exercising biblical discernment:

          a. A ___________________ Christ?

          b. A ___________________ Worldview?

 

    B. APPLICATION

        Why are Christians failing to stand their ground?

        1. A ________ view of Scripture.

        2. A ________ view of theology.

        3. A ________ view of God.

        4. A __________ approach to the Christian life.

 

TRUTH POINT:

We stand our ground by __________________ between good and evil and ______________ truth from error.

 

STAND YOUR GROUND

1 John 4:1-6

Discussion Questions

1. Have you had any experience with false teachers? What were some of their tactics? Did they act like the false teachers described in 2 Peter 2:1-2? How did you respond?

2. What are the two imperatives that emerge in 1 John 4:1-6. Discuss the importance of these imperatives? What are some practical ways that you can obey these Scriptural mandates?

3. What are the two tests for exercising biblical discernment? Have you ever talked with someone who promoted a "blemished Christ?" How did you respond?

4. What label does the apostle John give to anyone who distorts the biblical portrait of Christ?

5. What are some examples of a "blemished worldview?" Why do they refuse to listen to Scripture?

6. Do you think that there is a general lack of discernment among Christians? Why or why not? What steps can Christians take to be more discerning?

7. Can you think of any practical steps you can take this week to be more distinguishing and discerning?

8. Take some time to review the Scriptures below that urge us to be strong in our faith. Allow these verses to guide your time of prayer.

  • Ephesians 6:10
  • 1 Corinthians 16:13
  • 2 Corinthians 1:24
  • Philippians 1:27
  • 2 Thessalonians 2:15
  • 1 Corinthians 15:58