Living as Children of God

  • Pastor Lesli Klingenmeier

Do you ever feel misunderstood by the world around you? In a society filled with cultural and political unrest, how can we remain true to our faith and live righteously? Let’s explore the wisdom of 1 John and discover how to stay connected to Christ and live as God’s children.

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Living as Children of God

Message Summary

Do you ever feel misunderstood by the world around you? In a society filled with cultural and political unrest, how can we remain true to our faith and live righteously? Let’s explore the wisdom of 1 John and discover how to stay connected to Christ and live as God’s children.

Key Scripture
And now, dear children, remain in fellowship with Christ so that when he returns, you will be full of courage and not shrink back from him in shame. Since we know that Christ is righteous, we also know that all who do what is right are God’s children. See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! But the people who belong to this world don’t recognize that we are God’s children because they don’t know him. Dear friends, we are already God’s children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is. And all who have this eager expectation will keep themselves pure, just as he is pure.
1 John 2:28-3:3
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Discussion Questions

What does it mean to ‘remain in Christ’ as mentioned in 1 John 2:28, and how can we practically apply this concept in our daily lives?  
  • Pastor talked about the importance of remaining in fellowship with Christ to be confident and unashamed when He returns.
  • Reflect on your daily routine. What are some specific actions you can take to remain in Christ each day?
How does understanding our identity as children of God influence the way we live and interact with others?  
  • The sermon emphasized that we are called God’s children and that this identity should affect our behavior and attitudes.
  • Consider a recent interaction with a friend or family member. How might viewing yourself and them as children of God change that interaction?
In the sermon, it was mentioned that anyone who continues to sin does not truly know Christ. What does this mean for our understanding of sin and grace?  
  • Pastor shared that sin is lawlessness, and those who practice sin lack a true relationship with God.
  • Think of an area in your life where you struggle with sin. How can you seek God’s grace to overcome this while understanding His desire for a relationship with you?
What are some ways we can support each other in living righteously and loving one another, as highlighted in the sermon?  
  • The sermon concluded with the idea that a mark of being a true child of God is living righteously and loving other believers.
  • Identify a close friend in your life. How can you encourage them to grow in their faith and love for others this week?
Pastor talked about the idea of being ‘played’ by the devil through temptation. How can we safeguard ourselves against these deceptive practices?   
  • The sermon compared the devil to a wind-up toy controlling our actions if we’re not careful about our choices.
  • What specific situations or habits in your life make you feel vulnerable to temptation and how can you create boundaries to protect yourself?

Prayer

  • Ask for prayer requests for anyone who needs support this week.
  • Pray for God’s guidance in applying the message to our daily lives.
  • Ask the Lord to help reveal any areas where we need to remain pure.
  • Seek strength and encouragement in loving one another as God loves us.

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