The First Letter of JohnSample

Abide Forever

We need to remember that there is a difference between loving the world’s people and loving the world’s systems and behaviors. Sometimes modern Christians tend to blur the lines between the two. It is important to note that we should love the world's people - but we should not love the system that leads those beloved people into sin. Which of the following verses speak of the world systems, and which speak of the world’s people?

Something interesting to note is that the three things John warns us about are parallels to the three temptations of Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). The lust of the flesh - turning stone into bread to satisfy his physical desires. The lust of the eyes - throwing Himself down from the temple to force a miracle that would prove His identity. The pride of life – bowing to worship Satan to receive all the power and glory in the earth.

Devotional Questions:

All of us are tempted in these three areas almost daily. God wants what is good for us, but not if we use the broken world system to get these things rather than trusting God to supply them.

Where in my life do I ‘love’ the things of the world?

Where do my temptations lie in satisfying my flesh?

What are my temptations to prove myself?

Where are I tempted in trying to gain power, wealth, or influence?