Appears several times in Song of Solomon, Jeremiah, Ecc, and 2 Samuel in a way that we typically use the word “Love” in English
Playing that back: Godliness (or sanctification?) stems from the Love of God that drives us to Love others. In order to truly Love others we require self-control but, in order to know how to properly exercise self-control, we need the knowledge of what is right and what is wrong. To attain that understanding, we need faith in God
Love is the goal. Losing sight of this means we forget what we were rescued from and causes us to look at the world with contempt or disgust
Peter emphasizes that his time is nearing an end and proclaims that his main message for all believers (“…to those who have obtained faith…” v1)
This message is not his own but rather that of Jesus, and Jesus’s authority and glory was seen by him first-hand
A warning that scripture interprets itself by offering of the Holy Spirit
Discussion Points
How do we walk out these things?
Ben: faith the size of mustard seed
Ry: building blocks
Alan: fruit/virtue/fruit
What are some ways that we can keep Love at the center of our lives?
Should we stop the whole “here’s what that means to me” way of studying or is that the spirit speaking through our own lives? Is there a way to know both personally or in a group setting?
Chapter 2
False prophets do the opposite of what chapter 1 discussed: they interpret scripture freely, speaking “sensual” heresy (meaning it sounds nice) and, thus, deny God and his Truth
God didn’t spare such people in the past, why would he stop now? (the flood, Sodom & Gomorrah) However, he always spares those that seek His face to the point that they feel hurt seeing other’s behave contrary to God’s plan (Noah, Lot)
They are proud of leading people after themselves and enjoy their own sins, which draws in those that need God’s healing power the most
For the false prophet, it would be better that they had never known God than to know and then deliberately disobey
Discussion Points
It’s easy to dismiss this saying things like “I’m not a false prophet, this isn’t talking about me” or “I don’t listen to the property gospel so I’m doing great!” but this is a warning against anyone who has a popular message that, though it sounds reasonable and beautiful, is contrary to God’s word. Are there other teachings or beliefs you’ve seen or been a part of that are less well known? How do we test things?
Chapter 3
I’m writing again so that you remember the prophets and commandments and to equip you to avoid false teachers and doubters
Though God seems to be taking his time, remember that God is outside of time. He is patiently waiting, giving the world every opportunity to turn toward him
When time is up, it’ll be up for good. Prepare, daily to greet God (Matt 25:1-13, the parable of the 10 virgins). Practice for the world that is to come: the new heaven and new earth, which will house the righteous on it
Don’t be carried away by the world but study the scripture and dig for truth. Grow in grace and knowledge