Hope Bible School

(Photo by set.sj on Unsplash. Berean Standard Bible.)Welcome to the Hope Bible School verse-by-verse Bible study of 1 John. This is Jeff M Newman. Get a new lesson every other week on Mondays at 12:00 PM Pacific.In Lesson 89, we are going to study the last part of 1 John 3:8.Let’s read this part of the verse:1 John 3:8…This is why the Son of God was revealed, to destroy the works of the devil.Let’s go over the definitions of the words.This is why (1519. eis) — means for this purpose.the (3588. ho, hé, to) Son (5207. huios) of God — means the Son who shares the Father's nature.was revealed (5319. phaneroó) — means was made known and openly displayed.to destroy (3089. luó) — means to break, to release, or to loosen.the (3588. ho, hé, to) works (2041. ergon) — means deeds, actions, and activities.of the (3588. ho, hé, to) devil (1228. diabolos) — means the slanderer and false accuser.In other words, the Son of God, who shares the very nature of the Father, was revealed for this purpose: to break apart, undo, and free people from the works of the devil, the slanderer and false accuser.In Lesson 87, we learned that the one who practices sin is of the devil. This means that when someone continues in sin, they are living under the influence of the devil’s work rather than walking in the life of God.In Lesson 88, we learned that the devil has been sinning from the beginning. This means that since his rebellion against God, he has continually opposed God and led others into sin.Today we are going to study how Jesus, the Son of God, was revealed to break apart, undo, and destroy the works of the devil who has been sinning from the beginning and leading others into sin since his rebellion.We will first look at verses that describe the devil’s works, and then we will review verses that show how Jesus came to destroy those works.The Devil Challenges God’s CommandsIn Genesis 3:4-5, we see the devil challenge what God had commanded Adam and Eve. One of devil’s primary tactics is to question, distort, and contradict God's Word. Rather than encouraging people to trust God, he seeks to create doubt about God's truth and goodness.Genesis 3:4-5 “You will not surely die,” the serpent told the woman. 5 “For God knows that in the day you eat of it, your eyes will be opened and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”Jesus Overcomes the Devil's Challenges with the Word of GodIn Matthew 4, Jesus was led into the wilderness where He was tempted by the devil. Unlike Adam and Eve, who gave in to Satan's deception, Jesus resisted every temptation. Each time the devil challenged Him, Jesus responded by standing on the truth of God's Word.Matthew 4:4 But Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”The Devil Comes to Steal, Kill, and DestroyIn the first part of John 10:10, Jesus describes the destructive nature of the thief. While the immediate context refers to false shepherds who mislead God's people, their actions reflect the work of the devil, who seeks to harm and destroy.John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy…Jesus Came to Bring LifeIn the second part of John 10:10, we see why Jesus came. While the devil comes to steal, kill, and destroy, Jesus came to give life. Through faith in Him, we receive eternal life and can experience the fullness of life that comes from knowing Him.John 10:10 I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness.The Devil Accuses God’s People.In Revelation 12:10, we learn that the devil is the accuser of God's people. He continually brings accusations against believers and seeks to fill them with guilt, condemnation, and doubt. His goal is to discourage your faith and draw you away from close fellowship with God.Revelation 12:10…For the accuser of our brothers and sisters has been thrown down to earth — the one who accuses them before our God day and night.Jesus Is Our Advocate Against the Devil's AccusationsIn 1 John 2:1, we learn that Jesus Christ is our Advocate before the Father (Lesson 20). While the devil accuses God's people, Jesus intercedes for us. Because of His death and resurrection, your sins are forgiven, and every accusation against you has been answered by His finished work on the cross.1 John 2:1 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate before the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.The Devil Takes People Captive to Do His WillIn 2 Timothy 2:26, we learn that the devil uses snares to take people captive to do his will. A snare is a hidden trap. An animal does not realize it is trapped until it is too late. In the same way, Satan deceives people through lies, temptation, false teaching, and sin, leading them away from God's truth.2 Timothy 2:26 Then they will come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, who has taken them captive to his will.Jesus Sets Captives FreeIn John 8:31-32, we learn that Jesus came to set people free. While the devil takes people captive through deception and sin, Jesus frees you through His truth. As you continue in His Word, you will grow as His disciples, come to know the truth, and experience the freedom that only He can give.John 8:31-32 So He said to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, you are truly My disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you freeThe Devil Enslaves People Through the Fear of DeathIn Hebrews 2:14-15, we learn that the devil holds people in bondage through the fear of death. Because of sin, people live under the shadow of death and judgment. But through His death, Jesus defeated the devil and freed those who were enslaved by that fear.Hebrews 2:14-15 Now since the children have flesh and blood, He too shared in their humanity, so that by His death He might destroy him who holds the power of death, that is, the devil, 15 and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.Jesus Brings PeaceIn John 14:27 we read that Jesus gives His followers peace. While the devil seeks to enslave people through fear, Jesus speaks peace to troubled hearts. His peace is not like the world’s. It frees you from fear and gives you confidence in Him.John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid.The Devil Lies ContinuallyIn John 8:44, Jesus teaches that the devil is a liar and there is no truth in him. He opposes the truth of God and seeks to lead you away from the truth. When he lies, he is acting according to his nature. He is continually trying to deceive you and draw you away from God’s truth.John 8:44 You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out his desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, refusing to uphold the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, because he is a liar and the father of lies.Jesus Is the TruthIn John 14:6, we read that Jesus is the truth. While the devil lies and deceives, Jesus leads you to the Father and speaks truth into your life. He is not only the truth we believe, but also the way to God and the life you receive through Him.John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.The Devil Blinds the Minds of UnbelieversIn 2 Corinthians 4:4, we read about “the god of this age,” a reference to the devil. Satan works to blind the minds of unbelievers so they cannot see the truth and glory of Jesus Christ. He seeks to keep you in spiritual darkness and prevent you from believing the gospel.2 Corinthians 4:4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.Jesus Came to Bring Sight to the BlindIn Luke 4:18, Jesus declares that He is the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy. Part of His mission is to bring recovery of sight to the blind. This includes physical healing, but also points to spiritual sight, opening the eyes of those blinded by sin and the devil so you can see the truth of God.Luke 4:18 “The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed,In conclusion, Jesus, the Son of God, was revealed to destroy the destructive works of the devil. When someone continues in rebellion against God, they are living under the influence of the devil’s works rather than the truth of God. When that person puts their faith in Christ, Jesus breaks the power of the devil’s work in their life and brings them into new life and freedom.Let’s review the key takeaways from the supporting verses we studied.* The devil challenges God’s command, but Jesus overcomes the devil’s challenges by standing on the truth of God’s Word.* The devil came to steal, kill, and destroy, but Jesus came to bring abundant life.* The devil is the accuser of God’s people, but Jesus is our Advocate.* The devil takes people captive through deception and sin, but Jesus sets captives free.* The devil enslaves people through the fear of death, but Jesus delivers us from the fear of death and gives us peace.* The devil lies continually, but Jesus is the truth.* The devil blinds the minds of unbelievers, but Jesus came to bring sight to the blind.Be encouraged. Even though we have all been affected by the works of the devil, we can look to Jesus. He came to destroy the works of the devil and bring us into new life and freedom. Continue to focus on Jesus every single day and trust Him to keep you in peace and freedom from the lies of the enemy.Here’s a prayer to help you to respond to today’s lesson:Father, thank You for sending Jesus, the Son of God, to destroy the works of the devil and bring me into life and freedom. Thank You that Jesus is my Advocate, my Truth, and the One who sets me free. Help me to stand on Your Word when I am tempted or attacked with lies. When I feel accusation, fear, or confusion, remind me of what Christ has done for me on the cross. Strengthen my faith so I do not believe the enemy’s lies, but instead trust in Your truth. Fill my heart with Your peace and help me to walk in the freedom You have given me. Keep me close to Jesus each day, and teach me to live in the victory He has already won. In Jesus’ name. Amen.Let’s read this part of the verse one more time:1 John 3:8…This is why the Son of God was revealed, to destroy the works of the devil.If you’ve been blessed by Hope Bible School, please share it with others.Listen to these lessons over and over again.Meditate on God’s Word throughout the day. Pray continually. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.If you have any prayer requests, please share them in the comments.Thank you and God bless you.Jeff M NewmanThanks for reading Hope Bible School! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.hopebibleschool.com

(Photo by Hert Niks on Unsplash. Berean Standard Bible.)Welcome to the Hope Bible School verse-by-verse Bible study of 1 John. This is Jeff M Newman. Get a new lesson every other week on Mondays at 12:00 PM Pacific.In Lesson 75, we are going to third and final part of 1 John 3:1.Let’s read this part of the verse.1 John 3:1...The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know Him.Let’s go over the definitions of the words.The reason (1223. dia) — means because of or on account of.The world (3588. ho, hé, to) (2889. kosmos) — means the ordered world-system that is in moral rebellion against God.Does not (3756. ou, ouk, ouch) — is an absolute negation. This means not, no, or not at all.Know us (1097. ginóskó) — means to know in an experiential or relational way, that is, to recognize or acknowledge.Is that (3754. hoti) — means that, because, or since.It did not know (1097. ginóskó) — means did not acknowledge or recognize.Him (846. autos) — in this context, refers to God the Father.In other words, the reason the world-system, which is in moral rebellion against God, does not recognize us as God’s children is because it does not know, acknowledge, or have a relationship with God the Father.In the first part of 1 John 3:1, we learned about beholding the incredible love the Father has given us (Lesson 73). In the next part of the verse, we see that because of this great love, we are called into His family (Lesson 74). When we believe in what Jesus did for us on the cross, we are born again and become His children. This is our new identity.However, even though God calls us His children, the world does not know us or recognize us as His children. The world has rejected God, and therefore it rejects those who belong to Him. Instead of marveling at the Father’s great love, the world hates Him and those who reflect His nature.Let’s look at some verses that show how the world hates, rejects, and refuses to acknowledge believers because it does not know God.In John 15:18-19, Jesus explains to His disciples that the world hates them because it hated Him first. If they belonged to the world, the world would love them as its own. But because Jesus has chosen them out of the world, setting them apart to follow Him, the world hates them.John 15:18-19 If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first. 19 If you were of the world, it would love you as its own. Instead, the world hates you, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world.In John 1:9-11, we see that the world did not recognize Jesus as the Creator of the world and the Light of all people. Because the world did not know Him, it did not receive Him. In the same way, the world does not recognize God’s children or accept them.John 1:9-11 The true Light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him. 11 He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him.In 1 Corinthians 1:18, we read that the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are not God’s children. This shows that they do not understand God’s love for them. If they would have known God’s love through the cross, they would know God and recognize His children.1 Corinthians 1:18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.In John 3:19–20, we read that people who do not know God reject Him because they love the darkness rather than the Light. They would rather continue in evil than come into the Light. Because they live in darkness, they do not know God or recognize His children. They avoid the Light because they do not want their deeds exposed.John 3:19–20 And this is the verdict: The Light has come into the world, but people loved the darkness rather than the Light because their deeds were evil. 20 Everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come into the Light for fear that their deeds will be exposed.In 1 John 1:5–7, we read that God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. Some people may claim to have a relationship with God, but if they walk in darkness, they do not live by the truth. Because they remain in darkness, they cannot have true fellowship with believers who walk in the light. They do not truly know God or recognize His children, because they are separated from His light.1 John 1:5–7 God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with Him and walk in darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies us from all sin.In conclusion, the people of the world do not know God’s love. If they knew God’s love, they would know Him, and if they knew Him, they would know His children.Instead the world rejects God and rejects His children.Here are some key takeaways from the verses we reviewed.* The world hates God and His followers because believers belong to Him and no longer belong to the world (John 15:18-19).* The world did not recognize God when He came, even though He created it and is the true Light (John 1:9-11).* The world sees the message of the cross as foolish because it does not understand or acknowledge God’s love (1 Corinthians 1:18).* The people of the world love darkness rather than the Light, and reject the Light out of fear that their deeds will be exposed (John 3:19–20).* True fellowship with God and His children requires walking in the Light. Those who remain in darkness cannot truly know God or recognize His children because they do not know Him (1 John 1:5–7).Be encouraged. Even though the world may reject you, God has called you His child and loves you deeply. Walk in the light and live in His truth, and you will experience fellowship with other believers and grow in knowing God personally. Your identity as a child of God is secure, unshakable, and untouched by anything the world can say or do to you.Here is a prayer to help you respond to today’s lesson.Father, thank You for calling me Your child and showing me Your great love, as 1 John 3:1 declares. Draw me closer to You each day, help me to know You more deeply, and guide me to walk in Your light. Strengthen my heart to trust in Your love and to reflect Your truth to others, even though the world does not know You. Amen.Let’s read this part of the verse, one more time.1 John 3:1...The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know Him.If you’ve been blessed by Hope Bible School, please share it with others.Listen to these lessons over and over again.Meditate on God’s Word throughout the day. Pray continually. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.If you have any prayer requests, please share them in the comments.Thank you and God bless you.Jeff M NewmanThanks for reading Hope Bible School! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.hopebibleschool.com

(Photo by Ricardo Teixeira on Unsplash. Berean Standard Bible.)Welcome to the Hope Bible School verse-by-verse Bible study of 1 John. This is Jeff M Newman. Get a new lesson every other week on Mondays at 12:00 PM Pacific.In Lesson 73, we are going to study the first part of 1 John 3:1.Let’s read this part of the verse.1 John 3:1 Behold what manner of love the Father has given to us...Let’s go over the definitions of the words.Behold (3708. horaó) — is a command to stop, look, and marvel.What manner of (4217. potapos) — means “of what kind” or “of what sort.” This phrase expresses astonishment, describing something so extraordinary or unfamiliar that it inspires wonder.Love (26. agapé) — refers to divine love, a holy, selfless, and sacrificial affection that originates in God, reflects His nature, and is produced in believers by the Holy Spirit.The (3588. ho, hé, to) Father (3962. patér) — means “The Heavenly Father.” This refers to God as the source of both physical life and eternal life.Has given (1325. didómi) to us (1473. egó) — is a completed action by God, bestowing or granting something valuable to us.John calls us to behold the Father’s love. He urges us to pause, look closely, and marvel. The phrase “what manner of love” emphasizes the extraordinary nature of God’s love. God’s love is divine, supernatural, and far beyond anything humans can naturally show.This love has been fully given to us through Christ. It is a completed gift, yet it continues to impact us every moment of the day.God’s love is unconditional and unearned. We have done nothing to deserve it, yet He chooses to love us as His children. Be in awe that the Creator of the universe would extend such grace. Marvel at God’s generosity, who pours out His love freely, without expectation. Truly understanding this love changes how we live, how we see ourselves, and how we relate to Him.Let’s look at some verses that will help you understand and behold God’s divine love.In Psalm 36:7 we learn that because of God’s love, we can take refuge under the shadow of His wings. This illustrates His protection, safety, and intimacy. God’s love provides a secure place where we are safe and deeply cared for.Psalm 36:7 How precious is Your loving devotion, O God, that the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Your wings!In John 3:16 we learn that the Father gave His one and only Son because of His great love for the world. This is the clearest picture of His love in action, a love that sacrifices. God’s love is shown through the gift of Christ, offering eternal life to all who believe. This demonstrates that His love is active, generous, and reaches beyond anything we could earn or imagine.John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.In Romans 8:38–39 we learn that nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus. This love is unshakable and eternal, surpassing every power, circumstance, or barrier. It reminds us that God’s love is constant and secure, giving us confidence and peace.Romans 8:38–39 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor principalities, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.In Ephesians 2:4–5 we learn that because of God’s great love and rich mercy, He made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our trespasses. This shows that His love is transformational and unearned, reaching us even in our lowest state. It reminds us that God’s love is active, restoring, and full of grace.Ephesians 2:4–5 But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our trespasses.In Ephesians 3:16-19 we learn that God strengthens us through His Spirit so that Christ may dwell in our hearts. Being rooted and grounded in His love allows us to grasp the vast dimensions of Christ’s love, a love that surpasses knowledge. This love fills us with the fullness of God, showing us its depth, power, and transformative presence in our lives.Ephesians 3:16-19 I ask that out of the riches of His glory He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. Then you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 will have power, together with all the saints, to comprehend the length and width and height and depth 19 of the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.In 1 John 4:9-10 we learn that God’s love was revealed when He sent His one and only Son so that we might live through Him. True love is shown not by our love for God, but by His love for us, demonstrated in the atoning sacrifice of Christ. This passage highlights that God’s love is active, sacrificial, and the source of our life.1 John 4:9-10 This is how God’s love was revealed among us: God sent His one and only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him. 10 And love consists in this: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as the atoning sacrifice for our sins.In conclusion, as we reflect on these verses, we see the richness, depth, and transformative power of God’s love. Each passage reveals a different aspect of His love, inviting us to pause, marvel, and live in the reality of what He has freely given us.Here are the key takeaways* God’s love provides protection, safety, and intimacy, offering a secure refuge for His children. (Psalm 36:7)* God’s love is sacrificial, giving His Son so that we might have eternal life. (John 3:16)* God’s love is unshakable and eternal; nothing can separate us from it. (Romans 8:38–39)* God’s love is transformative, bringing life to us even when we are spiritually dead. (Ephesians 2:4–5)* God’s love is vast and immeasurable, filling us with His fullness as we are rooted in it. (Ephesians 3:16-19)* God’s love is active and sacrificial, shown through Christ’s atoning work for our sins. (1 John 4:9-10)Take time each day to pause and truly behold the love God has for you. Let His unfailing, sacrificial, and immeasurable love fill your heart, giving you confidence, peace, and joy in every circumstance.Here’s a prayer to help you respond to today’s lesson.Heavenly Father, thank You for Your incredible love, so vast, sacrificial, and unshakable. Help me to pause and truly behold it each day, to rest in Your protection, be transformed by Your grace, and live with confidence in the fullness of Your care. Teach me to respond with gratitude and faith, sharing Your love with others as I walk in the life You have given me through Christ. Amen.Let’s read our verse, one more time.1 John 3:1 Behold what manner of love the Father has given to us...If you’ve been blessed by Hope Bible School, please share it with others.Listen to these lessons over and over again.Meditate on God’s Word throughout the day. Pray continually. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.If you have any prayer requests, please share them in the comments.Thank you and God bless you.Jeff M NewmanThanks for reading Hope Bible School! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.hopebibleschool.com

(Photo by Michael Heuser on Unsplash. Berean Standard Bible.)Welcome to the Hope Bible School verse-by-verse Bible study of 1 John. This is Jeff M Newman. Get a new lesson every other week on Mondays at 12:00 PM Pacific.In Lesson 71, we are going to study the 1st part of 1 John 2:29.Let’s read this part of the verse.1 John 2:29 If you know that He is righteous...Let’s go over the definitions of the words.If (1437. ean) — means provided that or on the condition that.You know (1492. eidó) — means that you know as a fact, beyond all doubt, with full certainty.That He is righteous (3754. hoti) (1510. eimi) (1342. dikaios) — means since Jesus is innocent, holy, upright, approved by God, just in the eyes of God, and perfectly conformed to God’s standard.Today’s lesson is about knowing Jesus as the Righteous One. To know that He is righteous, we must see that His righteousness is not only what He does but who He is. Everything He says, thinks, and does flows from His perfect nature. As we go through this lesson, we will see how the Bible reveals the righteousness of Jesus in His nature, in His perfect obedience, in His bearing of our sin so that we might become the righteousness of God, in His role as our righteous High Priest, and in His example of moral righteousness.We will look at each of these areas in more detail to understand what Scripture teaches about the righteousness of Jesus.* Jesus is the Lord Our RighteousnessIn Jeremiah 23:5-6 we find a prophecy about the coming of Jesus. He is described as the righteous Branch who will come from the line of David. He will reign as King and will rule with wisdom, justice, and righteousness. His name will be called The Lord Our Righteousness, revealing that He Himself is the source of our righteousness.Jeremiah 23:5-6 Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and He will reign wisely as King and will administer justice and righteousness in the land. 6 In His days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell securely. And this is His name by which He will be called: The LORD Our Righteousness.* Jesus is the Righteous OneIn 1 John 2:1 we learn that Jesus Christ is our advocate before the Father when we sin. He is able to intercede for us because He alone is perfectly righteous, completely just, sinless, and morally pure. His advocacy is not based on our merit but on His own righteousness, which satisfies God’s justice. (See Lesson 20)1 John 2:1 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate before the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.* Jesus is righteous by nature.In 1 John 3:5 we read that there is no sin in Jesus. He is pure and incapable of moral corruption. Jesus is the only one that can take away sins.1 John 3:5 And you know that He appeared to take away sins, and in Him there is no sin.* Jesus fulfilled all righteousness through obedience.In Romans 5:18-19, we learn that through the obedience of Jesus and His one act of righteousness, which was His willing sacrifice on the cross, we can be made righteous and justified before God.Romans 5:18-19 So then, just as one trespass brought condemnation for all men, so also one act of righteousness brought justification and life for all men. 19 For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.* Jesus bore our sin, so we might become the righteousness of God.In 2 Corinthians 5:21, we learn that Jesus knew no sin. He was completely sinless and righteous by nature. God made the One who was without sin to bear our sin, so that through His righteousness we might become the righteousness of God. It is only through a perfectly righteous substitute that we can be made right with God.2 Corinthians 5:21 God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.* Jesus is the righteous High Priest.In Hebrews 4:14-16, we learn that because of Jesus’ sinlessness, He is qualified to sympathize with our weakness. He is both human and perfectly righteous. Because of the righteousness of Jesus, believers can approach God confidently in order to receive mercy and grace.Hebrews 4:14-16 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin. 16 Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.* Jesus is the example of moral righteousness.In 1 John 2:6 we learn that to abide in Christ means to walk as Jesus walked. This involves imitating His actions, attitudes, and character, following His example in love, humility, obedience, and righteousness. To do this, we must spend time learning from His life in Scripture and rely on the Holy Spirit to empower us to live as He lived. (See Lesson 29)1 John 2:6 Whoever claims to abide in Him must walk as Jesus walked.In conclusion, we have seen that Jesus is the Righteous One. His righteousness is not something He earned but something that defines who He is. He is righteous by nature, perfectly obedient in life and in death, our righteous High Priest, and the perfect example of moral righteousness for every believer to follow.Because Jesus is righteous, we can be made righteous through faith in Him. His righteousness becomes our own when we abide in Him. May this truth inspire us to worship Him with gratitude, walk in obedience, and depend daily on His grace and the power of the Holy Spirit to live in a way that reflects His righteousness to the world.Here’s a simple prayer to help you respond to today’s lesson.Lord Jesus, thank You for being perfectly righteous, pure, and holy. Thank You for bearing our sins so that through Your righteousness we can be made right with God. Help us to abide in You, to follow Your example, and to walk in obedience and love by the power of Your Spirit. Amen.Let’s read our verse, one more time.1 John 2:29 If you know that He is righteous...If you’ve been blessed by Hope Bible School, please share it with others.Listen to these lessons over and over again.Meditate on God’s Word throughout the day. Pray continually. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.If you have any prayer requests, please share them in the comments.Thank you and God bless you.Jeff M NewmanThanks for reading Hope Bible School! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.hopebibleschool.com

(Photo by Samuel Ferrara on Unsplash)Welcome to the Hope Bible School verse-by-verse Bible study of 1 John. This is Jeff M Newman. Get a new lesson every other week on Mondays at 12:00 PM Pacific.In Lesson 69, we are going to study the third part of 1 John 2:28.Let’s read the verse.1 John 2:28…we may be confident...Let’s define the words.We may be (2192. echó) — means we hold as a possession, ability or condition.Confident (3954. parrésia) — means out-spokenness, boldness, frankness, bluntness, or assurance in speech.In Lessons 67 and Lesson 68, we learned about abiding in Christ and His promise to appear again.Let’s read all of 1 John 2:28, so you can better understand the context of what we will be studying in this lesson.1 John 2:28 And now, little children, abide in Christ, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.When we abide in Christ, we can stand before Him at His coming with confidence, boldness, and assurance.Think of it this way:When a child has obeyed their parents, they run to them with joy. But when they’ve disobeyed, they often shrink back in guilt and hide in shame.We want to be confident before God.Abiding in Christ gives us confidence not only when He appears, but also in our daily lives. As we walk closely with Him, our confidence before the Lord grows.Let’s go over some verses that show us why we can abide in Christ and be confident before God.In 1 John 2:1, we read that we have an advocate before the Father, Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. This means we don’t have to defend ourselves before God, because Jesus represents us. Our confidence is not based on our own performance, but on Christ’s righteousness.Let this truth give you confidence in your relationship with the Lord. When you sin, don’t run away from Him, turn to Christ and trust Him to be your advocate.1 John 2:1 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate before the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.In Ephesians 3:12, we learn that through faith in Christ we can enter God’s presence with boldness and confidence. Jesus paid the penalty on the cross so that we can stand assured before God. Put your faith in what He has done for you, and let this truth give you confidence in His presence.Ephesians 3:12 In Him and through faith in Him we may enter God’s presence with boldness and confidence.In 1 John 4:15-19, we learn that because God’s love has been perfected in us, we can have confidence on the day of judgment. His perfect love drives out fear and gives us assurance that we belong to Him.1 John 4:15-19 If anyone confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. 16 And we have come to know and believe the love that God has for us. God is love; whoever abides in love abides in God, and God in him. 17 In this way, love has been perfected among us, so that we may have confidence on the day of judgment; for in this world we are just like Him. 18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear involves punishment. The one who fears has not been perfected in love. 19 We love because He first loved us.In Hebrews 4:14-16, we learn that Jesus, our great and sinless High Priest, represents us before the Father. He fully understands our weaknesses and the temptations we face. Because of Him, we can draw near to the throne of grace with confidence, knowing we will receive mercy and find help in our time of need.Hebrews 4:14-16 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin. 16 Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.In Hebrews 10:19, we learn that we can have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus. The blood of Jesus cleanses us once and for all. That means we can stand before God with confidence.Hebrews 10:19 Therefore, brothers and sisters, having confidence for entering the holy places by the blood of Jesus…In conclusion, we are called to abide in Christ, so that when He appears we may stand confident and unashamed before Him at His coming. By abiding in Christ, we can also have confidence before the Lord daily.Here are some key reasons why we can be confident:* Because of Jesus, we have an advocate before the Father. (1 John 2:1)* Because of Jesus, we have bold and confident access to God’s presence through faith. (Ephesians 3:12)* Because of Jesus, God abides in us, His love is perfected in us, and we have confidence before Him. (1 John 4:15-19)* Because of Jesus, who sympathizes with our weakness, we can approach the throne of grace with confidence. (Hebrews 4:14-16)* Because of Jesus, through His blood, we can enter the Most Holy Place with confidence. (Hebrews 10:19)Here’s a short prayer to help you grow in confidence.Father, thank You for the confidence we have in Jesus. He is our Advocate, our access to Your presence, and the One through whom Your love is perfected in us. Through Him we receive mercy and grace, and we boldly draw near to You. By His blood we enter Your presence with assurance. Help us to live each day in this confidence, trusting in Christ alone. Amen.Let’s read our verse, one more time.1 John 2:28…we may be confident...If you’ve been blessed by Hope Bible School, please share it with others.Listen to these lessons over and over again.Meditate on God’s Word throughout the day. Pray continually. Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.If you have any prayer requests, please share them in the comments.Thank you and God bless you.Jeff M NewmanThanks for reading Hope Bible School! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.hopebibleschool.com

Welcome to the Hope Bible School verse-by-verse Bible study of 1 John. This is Jeff M Newman. Get a new lesson every other week on Mondays at 12:00 PM Pacific.In Lesson 67, we are going to study the first part of 1 John 2:28.Let’s read the verse.1 John 2:28 And now, little children, abide in Christ…Let’s define the words.And now little children (2532. kai) (3568. nun) (5040. teknion) — is continuing the thought from 1 John 2:27, this phrase carries a sense of urgency for the present moment. It is addressed to beloved little ones in need of spiritual guidance and care, a tender term of deep endearment.Abide in Christ (3306. menó) (1722. en) (846. autos) — Means a continuous or repeated action: to remain, dwell, continue in, or stay connected with Christ.John is writing with a pastoral heart.He uses “little children” as a term of affection, urging his readers to abide in Christ and stay close to Him continually.There is a clear sense of urgency.Abiding is a major theme for John. He brings this term up regularly.In this lesson, I will share twelve practical ways to abide in Christ. * Return to Your First LoveRevelation 2:4 But I have this against you: You have abandoned your first love.Ask yourself, have you drifted from away Jesus? If you sense spiritual complacency, take this moment to repent and turn back to Him. Tell Jesus you love Him, and renew your desire to abide in Him each day.* Confess Your Sins Quickly1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.Unconfessed sin will hinder your ability to abide in Christ. Ask God to search your heart and reveal any sinful ways within you, then seek His strength to obey. He promises to forgive and cleanse you when you confess your sins to Him. Walking in this continual cleansing will help you abide in Christ. Check out Lesson 18 to learn more about 1 John 1:9.* Pray ContinuallyPhilippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.This verse calls us to bring everything to God in prayer and petition, always with thanksgiving. We are to present our requests to Him, fully trusting His care. Pray about everything, keep asking God for what you need, and remain thankful in all circumstances. The wonderful promise is that when you do this, God’s peace which is beyond anything you can understand will protect your heart and mind through Christ Jesus. Praying continually will help you abide in Christ.* Fill Yourself With Christ’s Word and Meditate on ItColossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.Let the word of Christ fill your life completely. Read, memorize, and reflect on scripture daily. Share with others what you are learning. Sing to the Lord with gratitude in your heart. Filling your life with His Word will help you abide in Christ.* Cleanse Yourself From the Defilement of the Flesh2 Corinthians 7:1 Therefore, beloved, since we have these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that defiles body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.Remove and avoid sinful influences in your life, and pursue purity in every area. This might include the media you consume, the relationships you keep, or the activities you engage in. God is calling you to holiness, and walking in holiness will help you abide in Christ.* Depend Completely on JesusJohn 15:5 I am the vine and you are the branches. The one who remains in Me, and I in him, will bear much fruit. For apart from Me you can do nothing.Recognize that without Christ you can do nothing. Choose to depend completely on Him in every area of your life. When you do, you will bear much fruit and live a life that glorifies God.* Watch Your Heart With All DiligenceProverbs 4:23 Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life.Protect your heart, because it is the source of how you live your life. Keep it pure by filling it with God’s Word so you can abide in Him and allow the love of Jesus to flow out through you.* Obey His CommandmentsJohn 15:10 If you keep My commandments, you will remain in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and remain in His love.To abide in Christ, you must obey His commands. Study His teachings and put them into practice in your daily life. Ask God for the strength to walk in obedience, just as Jesus walked.* Love Fellow Believers1 John 2:10 (NLT) Anyone who loves a fellow believer is living in the light and does not cause others to stumble.To abide in Christ, you need to love others as He loves them. This means serving, forgiving, and showing Christ’s love to your neighbors and fellow believers. Check out Lesson 33 to learn more about 1 John 2:10.* Have Communion With ChristLuke 22:19 And He took the bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body, given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”Abiding in Christ means staying connected to His sacrifice through continual remembrance. Regularly reflect on how Jesus gave His body and blood for us so that we might be saved and live in close fellowship with Him.* Live in Community With Other BelieversHebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. 25 Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.Abiding in Christ is not just a personal connection; it is lived out in community with other believers. God calls us to regularly gather and encourage one another toward love and good deeds. This fellowship helps us stay rooted in Christ as we live life together, eagerly awaiting His return.* Live With Awareness of Christ’s Return1 John 2:28 And now, little children, remain in Christ, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.Live each day with the awareness that Jesus is coming back soon. Let this truth guide your daily decisions by asking yourself, “Would I be ashamed if Jesus returned today?” Allow this perspective to help you abide faithfully in Christ.In conclusion, we are called to abide in Christ.Here are steps you can take to continually remain in, dwell in, continue in, and stay connected with Christ:* Return to Your First Love* Confess Your Sins Quickly* Pray Continually* Fill Yourself With Christ’s Word and Meditate on It* Cleanse Yourself From the Defilement of the Flesh* Depend Completely on Jesus* Watch Your Heart With All Diligence* Obey His Commandments* Love Fellow Believers* Have Communion With Christ* Live in Community With Other Believers* Live With Awareness of Christ’s ReturnRemember, abiding in Christ is not a one-time decision but a daily journey. Take these steps each day to grow continually closer to Him. God promises that when we draw near to Him, He will draw near to us. As you do, you will experience His peace and joy and bear eternal fruit for His glory. Stay faithful and keep your eyes on Jesus, for He is with you always.Here’s a prayer to help you abide in Christ.Lord Jesus,Thank You, Lord, for calling me to abide in You, to remain, dwell, and stay connected with You every day. Help me to return to my first love with a sincere heart, to confess my sins quickly, and to seek You continually in prayer. Fill me with Your Word and guide me to live a life of purity and obedience. Teach me to depend completely on You and to guard my heart with diligence. May I love others as You love me, share in fellowship with believers, and continually remember Your sacrifice through communion.Keep me aware of Your soon return and give me the strength to live each day in a way that honors You. Draw me closer to You, fill me with Your peace and joy, and help me bear fruit that lasts for Your glory.I trust in Your presence with me always. In Your precious name, I pray. Amen.Let’s read our verse, one more time.1 John 2:28 And now, little children, abide in Christ…If you’ve been blessed by Hope Bible School, please share it with others.Listen to these lessons over and over again.Meditate on God’s Word throughout the day. Pray continually. Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.If you have any prayer requests, please share them in the comments.Thank you and God bless you.Jeff M NewmanThanks for reading Hope Bible School! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.(Photo by Penny Hollick on Unsplash. Hines, MN. Berean Standard Bible.) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.hopebibleschool.com

Welcome to the Hope Bible School verse-by-verse Bible study of 1 John. This is Jeff M Newman. Get a new lesson every other week on Mondays at 12:00 PM Pacific.I’m going on a family vacation. That means the next lesson won’t be until July 28th. Please pray I have an amazing trip and draw closer to God and my family. Thank you.In Lesson 65, we are going to study the first part of 1 John 2:27.Let’s read the verse:1 John 2:27 And as for you, the anointing you received from Him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you…Let’s go over the definitions of the words.* And as for you (2532. kai) — means so, that, also, or then.* You (4771. su) — means you the reader.* The anointing (3588. ho, hé, to) (5545. chrisma) — refers to a smearing or pouring on of oil, symbolizing a special consecration or empowerment by the Holy Spirit. It implies a divine equipping for spiritual understanding or guidance.* You received from Him (2983. lambanó) (575. apo) (846. autos) — means that you have taken hold of or accepted this anointing from God Himself. It’s a divine gift granted to you, not earned or produced by human means.* Remains in you (3306. menó) (1722. en) (4771. su) — means the anointing remains, dwells, or continues in you. This is a lasting, internal reality for every believer, a continuing presence, not a fleeting or external experience.* And you do not need anyone to teach you. (2532. kai) (2192. echó) (3756. ou, ouk, ouch) (5532. chreia) (5100. tis) (1321. didaskó) (4771. su) — Means, because of the anointing, you are not dependent on human instruction to recognize truth. The Spirit of God within you teaches, affirms, and guides you into all truth.Here is a paraphrased and expanded version: As for you, the anointing you have received from God dwells in, continues in, and remains within you. This anointing is the Holy Spirit’s sacred empowerment and consecration, given not by human effort but as a gracious gift from God. Because the Spirit dwells in you permanently, you do not need anyone else to teach you the truth. The Spirit Himself teaches you all things and guides you into understanding what is true and right.1 John 2:27 begins with “As for you,” which shows that John is speaking directly to true believers.This is in contrast with the false teachers, or "antichrists," described in 1 John 2:18–19. These are the people who left the community because they never truly belonged to it.“The anointing you received from Him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you” refers to the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who was given to you at the time you put your faith in Christ.This anointing is not temporary. It remains in you continually, making a permanent home in your life. The anointing is the work of the Spirit that empowers you and sets you apart.John is encouraging his readers by reminding them that they don’t need to rely on the false teachers. They already have everything they need because the Spirit of God lives within them.The anointing reveals spiritual truth to believers, gives discernment to recognize false teaching, strengthens believers to resist deception, and stay faithful to Christ.Unlike the false and misleading messages all around us, true teaching comes directly from the Holy Spirit.This does not mean that godly human teachers are unnecessary or unhelpful. After all, John himself is teaching through this letter. But it does mean that you have direct access to God’s truth through the Holy Spirit, who is the ultimate teacher and protector against false doctrine.While Christian teachers can help with spiritual growth and maturity, spiritual discernment and the ability to recognize truth ultimately comes from the Spirit’s abiding presence in every believer.Let’s look at some cross-references for 1 John 2:27 to help you better understand the anointing you have received from God. In John 14:16-17, Jesus promises that He will ask the Father to give believers the Spirit of truth, who will be with them forever. This is the same Spirit, the Holy Spirit, who lives in those who know Christ. This anointing cannot be received by the world, only by those who truly know Him.John 14:16-17 And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot receive Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you do know Him, for He abides with you and will be in you.In Ephesians 1:13, we read that when you heard and believed the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit at the moment of conversion. This seal is permanent. It means that you belong to God, you are marked by Him, and you are His child.Ephesians 1:13 And in Him, having heard and believed the word of truth—the gospel of your salvation—you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit…In 2 Corinthians 1:21-22, we learn that God is the one who strengthens and anoints us. He places His seal on us and puts His Spirit in our hearts. When you trust in Christ, God marks you forever with His seal as a pledge or a guarantee of the future blessings to come. This pledge brings us great hope and assurance that our salvation is secure.2 Corinthians 1:21-22 Now it is God who establishes both us and you in Christ. He anointed us, 22 placed His seal on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a pledge of what is to come.In John 16:13, we learn that the Spirit of truth will guide you into all truth. This means the Spirit will lead you to understand God’s Word correctly and protect you from the lies of false teachers. Whenever you face false teaching, trust the Spirit to lead you and give you wisdom to discern what is true.John 16:13 However, when the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. For He will not speak on His own, but He will speak what He hears, and He will declare to you what is to come.In 1 Corinthians 2:12-13, we learn that the Holy Spirit helps us to understand the gifts and truths God has freely given us. Rather than relying on human wisdom, we are guided by the Spirit, who teaches us to grasp spiritual realities and express them rightly.1 Corinthians 2:12-13 We have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us. 13 And this is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom, but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words.In conclusion, when you put your faith in Christ, you receive a permanent anointing from God. This anointing is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who will teach you all things and guide you into all truth. Because of this, you do not need to rely on false teachers or worldly wisdom. The Spirit within you empowers you to understand God’s Word and live as His child with confidence and assurance.Here are the key takeaways from this lesson:* The anointing you received is the Holy Spirit, the Advocate and Spirit of truth, who will be with you forever. (John 14:16-17)* When you believe in Christ, you are sealed with the promised Holy Spirit. (Ephesians 1:13)* God's seal, the Holy Spirit in your heart, is a pledge and guarantee of what is to come. (2 Corinthians 1:21-22)* The Spirit of God will guide us into all truth that is directly from God. (John 16:13)* The Spirit of God guides you into all truth, speaking only what comes from God. (1 Corinthians 2:12-13)Be encouraged. If you have placed your faith in Christ, God has given you His Holy Spirit to live in you forever. You are never alone or without guidance. The Spirit of truth is within you to teach you, lead you, and strengthen you each day. You don’t need to rely on false teachers or be swayed by deception, because the Spirit Himself will guide you into all truth. Trust that the Spirit within you is God's promise of your eternal future and a reminder that He is always at work in your life.Let’s read the first part of 1 John 2:27 one more time.1 John 2:27 And as for you, the anointing you received from Him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you…If you’ve been blessed by Hope Bible School, please share it with others.Listen to these lessons over and over again.Meditate on God’s Word throughout the day. Pray continually. Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.If you have any prayer requests, please share them in the comments.Thank you and God bless you.Jeff M NewmanThanks for reading Hope Bible School! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.(Photo by Jan Zikán on Unsplash. Berean Standard Bible.) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.hopebibleschool.com