The Children of God and the Children of the Devil, Part 6

Text: 1 John 2:28-3:10

Summary: In 1 John 2:28-3:10, John answers the question, “Who are the children of God?” He answers this question by contrasting three characteristics of the children of God (2:28-3:3) with two characteristics of the children of the devil (3:4-10, i.e., the secessionists).

By drawing this clear contrast John has two aims: 1. To instruct his little children how to live differently from the secessionists who are seeking to deceive them by their teaching and lifestyle (3:7). 2. To assure his children of their salvation.

Outline: 

I. Who Are the Children of God? 2:28-3:3

   A. The children of God abide in Christ and therefore have confidence to stand before   God when Christ returns. 2:28

   B. The Children of God have been Fathered by God and therefore do what is right. 2:29

   C. The Children of God are recipients of the Father’s great love. 3:1-3

II. Who are the Children of the Devil? 3:4-10

    A. The children of the devil are characterized by satanic rebellion against God. vv. 4-6 

Lesson:

    B. The children of the devil are characterized by a satanic desire to deceive. vv. 7-10

©John Fonville. All Rights Reserved. 2022.