May 2025
Children of God, 25 May 2025
Children of God
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
Series: 1 John
May 18, 2025
1 John 3:1-10
Series Big Idea: One of Jesus’ best friends offers timeless teaching on following Jesus.
Big Idea: Children of God are loved beyond measure.
Scripture Reading: 1 John 3:1-6
Who are you? This is one of life’s two most important questions, I believe, the other being who is Jesus? The older I get, the more I value the importance of identity. There’s a primal dimension to self-awareness and how we view ourselves. I am pastor, husband, dad, papa, son, Findlayan, entrepreneur, musician,…but my primary identity is child of the Most High God.
If you’re a follower of Jesus, you’ve been adopted into God’s family (Galatians 4:5; Ephesians 1:5). You are His precious son or daughter, and any identity you attach to yourself above child of God is an idol. I’ve met so-called Christians whose primary identity is their politics, sports teams, or occupations. I appreciate those affiliations, but nothing compares to being a child of God.
We’ve been studying John’s first epistle or short letter written to early Christians. Today’s text in chapter three begins with two beautiful sentences:
See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! (1 John 3:1a)
Great love.
Lavished.
Children of God.
What we are.
If we could grasp this, our lives would be transformed. College First would be transformed. Jesus died for us while we were his enemies. That’s crazy love!
The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. (1 John 3:1b)
This echoes his earlier distinction between the world’s kingdom and God’s Kingdom. The world doesn’t know God, so they don’t know us…unless we introduce them to Him!
Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. (1 John 3:2)
John drops more zingers in what may be the best verse in today’s text:
He repeats our identity as children of God.
We have a bright, hopeful future.
Christ will appear.
We will be like Jesus.
We will clearly see Jesus.
Hallelujah!
There is so much hope in this verse! I’ve mentioned new, resurrected bodies, but a glorious future, being in the presence of Jesus…I can’t wait! As the old song says,
It will be worth it all
When we see Jesus!
Life’s trials will seem so small
When we see Christ
One glimpse of his dear face
All sorrow will erase
So, bravely run the race
Till we see Christ.
All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure. (1 John 3:3)
Jesus is pure, so we must purify ourselves and become like him. That’s the goal…to become like Jesus. The word Christian was originally a term of contempt or scorn or disdain by Gentiles from the Greek word christianos. But does it describe you? Do people confuse you with Jesus? In contrast to the purity of Jesus…
Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness. 5 But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin. 6 No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him. (1 John 3:4-6)
This does not mean Christians are perfect (see 1:8-10). We all sin, but are you proud of your sin or repentant? Children of God desire to follow Jesus, though we fail, at times. Children of the world have no interest in pleasing God and live for themselves. Sin is living in a state of rebellion against God.
Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. 8 The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work. (1 John 3:7-8)
I love that last sentence! Jesus came to destroy the devil’s work! The victory is underway, though not yet complete. But if I can skip ahead for a moment, in chapter 4 we will read,
You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. (1 John 4:4)
Hallelujah! This is good news. This is great news! This raises some questions for me:
Why are victorious Christians often so downcast and discouraged?
Why are victorious Christians walking in darkness rather than light?
Why are victorious Christians often engaging in gossip, slander, pride, and greed?
Why are victorious Christians often filled with fear?
Why are victorious Christians often duped by conspiracy theories and fake news?
No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God. (1 John 3:9)
A true child of God does not live in habitual, deliberate sin. They know God and repent when they sin. If you struggle with sin, if you want victory over sin, that’s the sign of a true child of God. If that’s you, get help. Tell a friend. Talk to a pastor. Join a support group. There are many in our community and some here at College First. Jesus died for your sins. He wants to set you free. The power of the Holy Spirit is available to you.
Followers of Jesus are regenerated, born again. They have a new nature. They become new creations. They are justified with a new, right standing before God. They are playing a new song and even though they may play a wrong note occasionally, they have a new piece of music now, a new page, a new life. The “seed”—God’s word—is alive in them.
This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister. (1 John 3:10)
Are you a child of God or a child of the devil? John doesn’t indicate it’s based upon beliefs, theology, or church attendance. Do you love God and your neighbor? Prove it! What if they vote differently? What if they are here legally from another country? What if they speak a different language, lack a good education, smell different, look different? Love is the test of our faith, our identity, our adoption. It’s not religious activity, but love for God and others. There are counterfeit Christians…children of the devil.
So What?
Who are you? If you’ve said “yes” to Jesus, you are a child of God, created in His image with dignity, value, and worth. That means you are no longer of the world. You do what is right. You stop sinning. You love well.
Today, some of you need to repent. Confess your sins and turn from darkness. Jesus is waiting for you to say yes and follow him. We’re here to help you on your journey. Don’t go alone.
And if you are a child of God, be reminded of who you are…
Video: https://www.fathersloveletter.com
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
Series: 1 John
May 18, 2025
1 John 3:1-10
Series Big Idea: One of Jesus’ best friends offers timeless teaching on following Jesus.
Big Idea: Children of God are loved beyond measure.
Scripture Reading: 1 John 3:1-6
Who are you? This is one of life’s two most important questions, I believe, the other being who is Jesus? The older I get, the more I value the importance of identity. There’s a primal dimension to self-awareness and how we view ourselves. I am pastor, husband, dad, papa, son, Findlayan, entrepreneur, musician,…but my primary identity is child of the Most High God.
If you’re a follower of Jesus, you’ve been adopted into God’s family (Galatians 4:5; Ephesians 1:5). You are His precious son or daughter, and any identity you attach to yourself above child of God is an idol. I’ve met so-called Christians whose primary identity is their politics, sports teams, or occupations. I appreciate those affiliations, but nothing compares to being a child of God.
We’ve been studying John’s first epistle or short letter written to early Christians. Today’s text in chapter three begins with two beautiful sentences:
See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! (1 John 3:1a)
Great love.
Lavished.
Children of God.
What we are.
If we could grasp this, our lives would be transformed. College First would be transformed. Jesus died for us while we were his enemies. That’s crazy love!
The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. (1 John 3:1b)
This echoes his earlier distinction between the world’s kingdom and God’s Kingdom. The world doesn’t know God, so they don’t know us…unless we introduce them to Him!
Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. (1 John 3:2)
John drops more zingers in what may be the best verse in today’s text:
He repeats our identity as children of God.
We have a bright, hopeful future.
Christ will appear.
We will be like Jesus.
We will clearly see Jesus.
Hallelujah!
There is so much hope in this verse! I’ve mentioned new, resurrected bodies, but a glorious future, being in the presence of Jesus…I can’t wait! As the old song says,
It will be worth it all
When we see Jesus!
Life’s trials will seem so small
When we see Christ
One glimpse of his dear face
All sorrow will erase
So, bravely run the race
Till we see Christ.
All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure. (1 John 3:3)
Jesus is pure, so we must purify ourselves and become like him. That’s the goal…to become like Jesus. The word Christian was originally a term of contempt or scorn or disdain by Gentiles from the Greek word christianos. But does it describe you? Do people confuse you with Jesus? In contrast to the purity of Jesus…
Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness. 5 But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin. 6 No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him. (1 John 3:4-6)
This does not mean Christians are perfect (see 1:8-10). We all sin, but are you proud of your sin or repentant? Children of God desire to follow Jesus, though we fail, at times. Children of the world have no interest in pleasing God and live for themselves. Sin is living in a state of rebellion against God.
Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. 8 The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work. (1 John 3:7-8)
I love that last sentence! Jesus came to destroy the devil’s work! The victory is underway, though not yet complete. But if I can skip ahead for a moment, in chapter 4 we will read,
You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. (1 John 4:4)
Hallelujah! This is good news. This is great news! This raises some questions for me:
Why are victorious Christians often so downcast and discouraged?
Why are victorious Christians walking in darkness rather than light?
Why are victorious Christians often engaging in gossip, slander, pride, and greed?
Why are victorious Christians often filled with fear?
Why are victorious Christians often duped by conspiracy theories and fake news?
No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God. (1 John 3:9)
A true child of God does not live in habitual, deliberate sin. They know God and repent when they sin. If you struggle with sin, if you want victory over sin, that’s the sign of a true child of God. If that’s you, get help. Tell a friend. Talk to a pastor. Join a support group. There are many in our community and some here at College First. Jesus died for your sins. He wants to set you free. The power of the Holy Spirit is available to you.
Followers of Jesus are regenerated, born again. They have a new nature. They become new creations. They are justified with a new, right standing before God. They are playing a new song and even though they may play a wrong note occasionally, they have a new piece of music now, a new page, a new life. The “seed”—God’s word—is alive in them.
This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister. (1 John 3:10)
Are you a child of God or a child of the devil? John doesn’t indicate it’s based upon beliefs, theology, or church attendance. Do you love God and your neighbor? Prove it! What if they vote differently? What if they are here legally from another country? What if they speak a different language, lack a good education, smell different, look different? Love is the test of our faith, our identity, our adoption. It’s not religious activity, but love for God and others. There are counterfeit Christians…children of the devil.
So What?
Who are you? If you’ve said “yes” to Jesus, you are a child of God, created in His image with dignity, value, and worth. That means you are no longer of the world. You do what is right. You stop sinning. You love well.
Today, some of you need to repent. Confess your sins and turn from darkness. Jesus is waiting for you to say yes and follow him. We’re here to help you on your journey. Don’t go alone.
And if you are a child of God, be reminded of who you are…
Video: https://www.fathersloveletter.com
Antichrist, 18 May 2025
Antichrist
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
Series: 1 John
May 18, 2025
1 John 2:18-29
Series Big Idea: One of Jesus’ best friends offers timeless teaching on following Jesus.
Big Idea: We need to remain in Christ…and avoid antichrist(s).
Scripture Reading: 1 John 2:18-22
For as long as I can remember, one of the most fascinating subjects in the church has been end times and, specifically, the antichrist. Who is it? Some thought Hitler. Others were sure it was Gorbachev. Still others announced Saddam Hussein was the antichrist. As we continue our series on the book of 1 John, I’m going to tell you who the antichrist is…or antichrists.
John, one of Jesus’ three best friends, is writing a letter to some of the first Christians. Up to this point in the letter, he has talked about light, love versus hatred, and the Kingdom of God versus the kingdoms of this world. Now he confronts the imminent crisis facing his congregation.
Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour. (1 John 2:18)
The last hour. Antichrist. This sounds a bit like the book of Revelation—also written by John. Notice antichrists is plural. These are clearly enemies of Jesus, by definition.
People love to talk about the last hour, end times. How is it possible that 2000 years ago they were living in the last hour? Many believe John was talking theologically, not chronologically when he speaks of the last hour. It’s a period that began at the resurrection and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2. Nineteenth-century pastor J.H. Newman distinguishes between history before Jesus and history since Jesus. He said history changed direction, from toward the end to along it.
I like to say God has all of the time in the world. If a day is like a thousand years to Him (2 Peter 3:8), the end was near and the end is near. The next step in history will be the return of Christ. Are you ready? Are your friends and family ready? Our mission is to get them ready, to love, equip, and send them into eternity with Jesus.
They went out from us, but they did not really belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us; but their going showed that none of them belonged to us. (1 John 2:19)
It’s not enough that there were those opposing Jesus. Now they’re harming the church.
But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth. (1 John 2:20)
This word “anointing” has been abused by many who simply claim to be anointed. By whom? It’s a work of the Holy Spirit, and it’s not an all-or-nothing, one-time thing. It’s the result of the Spirit guiding us into truth and granting us discernment.
I would love to be able to declare to you, College First, that all of you know the truth. Today people talk about “my” truth and “your” truth and “trust is what I feel.” Pilate asked Jesus moments before the crucifixion, “What is truth?” in John 18:38. Jesus had already said to Thomas,
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6)
Do you know the truth? Truth is a person. Do you know Jesus?
To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31)
I love how John weaves this Greek word, aletheia throughout his writings. Truth matters.
I do not write to you because you do not know the truth, but because you do know it and because no lie comes from the truth. 22 Who is the liar? It is whoever denies that Jesus is the Christ. Such a person is the antichrist—denying the Father and the Son. 23 No one who denies the Son has the Father; whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also. (1 John 2:21-23)
Antichrist could refer to an opponent of Christ, but here it’s anyone who denies Jesus is the Christ, is divine, is fully God, yet fully human. They
- Deny the incarnation (4:2)
- Deny the divinity of Jesus (v. 22)
- Deny the Father (v. 22)
- Do not have the Father (v. 23)
- Are liars (v. 22)
- Are deceivers (2 John 7)
- Are many (v. 18)
- Left the church (v. 19)
As for you, see that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father. 25 And this is what he promised us—eternal life. (1 John 2:24-25)
Remain. Abide. Stay devoted to Jesus. Remain faithful to Christ. He said,
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. (John 15:5)
John continues,
I am writing these things to you about those who are trying to lead you astray. (1 John 2:26)
This is a warning. Pay attention. This is still true today. There are false teachers saying Jesus is not God…or that he’s not human. There are those proclaiming a so-called prosperity gospel that says if you’re not healthy and wealthy, it’s your faulty faith. Others view the Bible as a nice collection of suggestions rather than authoritative. Much of the early church letters addressed these issues because there were—and still are—those trying to lead others astray. This is why we need accountability, we need to know the word, we need to have a relationship with the truth, and remain in Jesus.
As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit—just as it has taught you, remain in him. (1 John 2:27)
Let the Holy Spirit guide you as you study the Bible, as you pray, as you disciple and teach others. John is addressing a heresy known as Gnosticism. These false teachers claimed they had a “secret knowledge.” Today this may disguise itself as new age, self-help, mystical experiences, or simply ignoring sin. What they needed—and what we need today—are men, women, and children committed to orthodoxy—right thinking—and orthopraxy—right living.
And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming. (1 John 2:28)
He is coming. Soon. Are you ready?
If you know that he is righteous, you know that everyone who does what is right has been born of him. (1 John 2:29)
Sometimes John’s message is so simple and obvious, but evidently, it’s worth repeating. If you’re like me, you may be quick to automatically place yourself among the “good guys,” the righteous, those who do right. Is this true? I’m just asking! Doing right does not save us. It’s not the result of trying harder. Rather, it’s the result of the Holy Spirit transforming our lives as we seek and surrender.
So What?
There’s no need to spend countless hours searching for the antichrist. There are plenty of people eager to draw followers, deceive seekers, and lead people away from God. As we said last week, we are not to love the world because it is opposed to the Kingdom of God. The worship of self, the denial of the truth, and expressions of pride are all indicators of evil. Our world is filled with news and information, but much of it is false.
The Church is filled with beliefs and practices. I would like to think most of it—all of it—is true, though false teachers have infected congregations for two thousand years. As I often say, don’t take my word for it when I preach, but study the scriptures, fact-check me, Jesus is our authority, not me. I do my best to proclaim the truth of the scriptures, but I’m human. That’s why I’m grateful for our Elders and denominational leaders who provide accountability and support to me and our congregation.
We need to discern the truth, know the truth, know Jesus. Be alert. This requires more than a weekly sermon. Saturate your heart, soul, and mind in the scriptures. Engage in a small group to explore the Bible in community. Don’t be passive in your growth. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you, stay on your knees in prayer, and surround yourself with godly men and women who can mentor, model, and disciple you.
We need to remain in Christ…and avoid antichrist(s).
Credits: edited by ChatGPT
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
Series: 1 John
May 18, 2025
1 John 2:18-29
Series Big Idea: One of Jesus’ best friends offers timeless teaching on following Jesus.
Big Idea: We need to remain in Christ…and avoid antichrist(s).
Scripture Reading: 1 John 2:18-22
For as long as I can remember, one of the most fascinating subjects in the church has been end times and, specifically, the antichrist. Who is it? Some thought Hitler. Others were sure it was Gorbachev. Still others announced Saddam Hussein was the antichrist. As we continue our series on the book of 1 John, I’m going to tell you who the antichrist is…or antichrists.
John, one of Jesus’ three best friends, is writing a letter to some of the first Christians. Up to this point in the letter, he has talked about light, love versus hatred, and the Kingdom of God versus the kingdoms of this world. Now he confronts the imminent crisis facing his congregation.
Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour. (1 John 2:18)
The last hour. Antichrist. This sounds a bit like the book of Revelation—also written by John. Notice antichrists is plural. These are clearly enemies of Jesus, by definition.
People love to talk about the last hour, end times. How is it possible that 2000 years ago they were living in the last hour? Many believe John was talking theologically, not chronologically when he speaks of the last hour. It’s a period that began at the resurrection and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2. Nineteenth-century pastor J.H. Newman distinguishes between history before Jesus and history since Jesus. He said history changed direction, from toward the end to along it.
I like to say God has all of the time in the world. If a day is like a thousand years to Him (2 Peter 3:8), the end was near and the end is near. The next step in history will be the return of Christ. Are you ready? Are your friends and family ready? Our mission is to get them ready, to love, equip, and send them into eternity with Jesus.
They went out from us, but they did not really belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us; but their going showed that none of them belonged to us. (1 John 2:19)
It’s not enough that there were those opposing Jesus. Now they’re harming the church.
But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth. (1 John 2:20)
This word “anointing” has been abused by many who simply claim to be anointed. By whom? It’s a work of the Holy Spirit, and it’s not an all-or-nothing, one-time thing. It’s the result of the Spirit guiding us into truth and granting us discernment.
I would love to be able to declare to you, College First, that all of you know the truth. Today people talk about “my” truth and “your” truth and “trust is what I feel.” Pilate asked Jesus moments before the crucifixion, “What is truth?” in John 18:38. Jesus had already said to Thomas,
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6)
Do you know the truth? Truth is a person. Do you know Jesus?
To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31)
I love how John weaves this Greek word, aletheia throughout his writings. Truth matters.
I do not write to you because you do not know the truth, but because you do know it and because no lie comes from the truth. 22 Who is the liar? It is whoever denies that Jesus is the Christ. Such a person is the antichrist—denying the Father and the Son. 23 No one who denies the Son has the Father; whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also. (1 John 2:21-23)
Antichrist could refer to an opponent of Christ, but here it’s anyone who denies Jesus is the Christ, is divine, is fully God, yet fully human. They
- Deny the incarnation (4:2)
- Deny the divinity of Jesus (v. 22)
- Deny the Father (v. 22)
- Do not have the Father (v. 23)
- Are liars (v. 22)
- Are deceivers (2 John 7)
- Are many (v. 18)
- Left the church (v. 19)
As for you, see that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father. 25 And this is what he promised us—eternal life. (1 John 2:24-25)
Remain. Abide. Stay devoted to Jesus. Remain faithful to Christ. He said,
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. (John 15:5)
John continues,
I am writing these things to you about those who are trying to lead you astray. (1 John 2:26)
This is a warning. Pay attention. This is still true today. There are false teachers saying Jesus is not God…or that he’s not human. There are those proclaiming a so-called prosperity gospel that says if you’re not healthy and wealthy, it’s your faulty faith. Others view the Bible as a nice collection of suggestions rather than authoritative. Much of the early church letters addressed these issues because there were—and still are—those trying to lead others astray. This is why we need accountability, we need to know the word, we need to have a relationship with the truth, and remain in Jesus.
As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit—just as it has taught you, remain in him. (1 John 2:27)
Let the Holy Spirit guide you as you study the Bible, as you pray, as you disciple and teach others. John is addressing a heresy known as Gnosticism. These false teachers claimed they had a “secret knowledge.” Today this may disguise itself as new age, self-help, mystical experiences, or simply ignoring sin. What they needed—and what we need today—are men, women, and children committed to orthodoxy—right thinking—and orthopraxy—right living.
And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming. (1 John 2:28)
He is coming. Soon. Are you ready?
If you know that he is righteous, you know that everyone who does what is right has been born of him. (1 John 2:29)
Sometimes John’s message is so simple and obvious, but evidently, it’s worth repeating. If you’re like me, you may be quick to automatically place yourself among the “good guys,” the righteous, those who do right. Is this true? I’m just asking! Doing right does not save us. It’s not the result of trying harder. Rather, it’s the result of the Holy Spirit transforming our lives as we seek and surrender.
So What?
There’s no need to spend countless hours searching for the antichrist. There are plenty of people eager to draw followers, deceive seekers, and lead people away from God. As we said last week, we are not to love the world because it is opposed to the Kingdom of God. The worship of self, the denial of the truth, and expressions of pride are all indicators of evil. Our world is filled with news and information, but much of it is false.
The Church is filled with beliefs and practices. I would like to think most of it—all of it—is true, though false teachers have infected congregations for two thousand years. As I often say, don’t take my word for it when I preach, but study the scriptures, fact-check me, Jesus is our authority, not me. I do my best to proclaim the truth of the scriptures, but I’m human. That’s why I’m grateful for our Elders and denominational leaders who provide accountability and support to me and our congregation.
We need to discern the truth, know the truth, know Jesus. Be alert. This requires more than a weekly sermon. Saturate your heart, soul, and mind in the scriptures. Engage in a small group to explore the Bible in community. Don’t be passive in your growth. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you, stay on your knees in prayer, and surround yourself with godly men and women who can mentor, model, and disciple you.
We need to remain in Christ…and avoid antichrist(s).
Credits: edited by ChatGPT
Don't Love the World, 11 May 2025
Don't Love the World
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
Series: 1 John
May 11, 2025
1 John 2:12-17
Series Big Idea: One of Jesus’ best friends offers timeless teaching on following Jesus.
Big Idea: Don’t love the world, but rather love its Creator.
Scripture Reading: 1 John 2:15-17
I love to travel. I’ve been blessed to visit every continent except Antarctica—some trips for ministry, others for pleasure. I’ve encountered diverse cultures, foods, languages, music, and art. God has truly created a beautiful world for us to enjoy—alongside nearly 8 billion of our closest friends.
But this world is broken. Sin has been wreaking havoc since the Garden of Eden. So how do we live in the world but not of it?
As we continue our series on the first epistle (or short letter) written by John, we come to what feels like an intentional interruption in his message—a kind of parenthesis.
I am writing to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name. (1 John 2:12) I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. (1 John 2:13) I write to you, dear children, because you know the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one. (1 John 2:14)
John addresses children, fathers, and young men. Are these literal or spiritual categories? Scholars disagree. Let’s unpack what John is saying.
To the Children:
Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. (John 1:12–13)
These believers knew their sins were forgiven through Jesus' death and resurrection. They had come to know the Father in an intimate way, able to call Him Abba—Papa, Daddy.
To the Fathers:
To the Young Men:
The vision of College First is to become a future-oriented church by 2028 that will see 33% of our congregation made up of kids, students, and young adults.
I’m thrilled about the direction we’re heading. Two years ago, we had one summer intern. Last year, two. This year, we’ll have six! These aren’t just helpers—they’re future pastors, missionaries, and leaders being loved, equipped, and sent out. Huge thanks to Nicky Inman and Pastor Nancy Hiser for their amazing work with NextGen.
John says twice that the young have overcome the evil one. This is already accomplished—not by our own strength, but through Christ’s victory. While the world is under the influence of Satan, believers are under the authority and protection of Jesus.
John tends to see things in black and white. I admit, life often feels more gray, but that may be more cultural than biblical. Jesus himself frequently used contrasts: light vs. darkness (John 8:12), the narrow vs. wide gate (Matt. 7:13–14), wise vs. foolish (Matt. 7:24–27), sheep vs. goats (Matt. 25:32), first vs. last (Matt. 19:30), humbled vs. exalted (Matt. 23:12).
Remember Jesus' words in John’s gospel:
“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. But you do not belong to the world—I have chosen you out of it. That’s why the world hates you.” (John 15:18–19)
Many people enter the U.S. as immigrants, students, or business professionals—but this is not their permanent home. In the same way, this world is not our home. We are citizens of another Kingdom—temporary residents here.
The sinful patterns of the world are in direct opposition to God’s ways. John writes:
Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. (1 John 2:15)
That’s as black and white as it gets. John is not telling us to hate creation, but to reject the world’s sinful systems. As the old saying goes: “Love God. Hate sin.”
For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. (1 John 2:16)
Let’s break that down:
So here’s the real question: Has the world influenced us more than God?
I’m not saying we should all live off the grid. But are we Americans who happen to be Christians, or Christ-followers who happen to live in America?
If we are not of this world, why do we so often act like we are?
Following Jesus is more than wearing a cross necklace, saying a prayer, or going to church once a week. It’s about being holy—set apart, different, even peculiar. We are called to live in the world, but not of it.
The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. (1 John 2:17)
Ask yourself, "Which of these will matter in 100 years?"
Jesus prayed to the Father:
“I have given them your word, and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world, but that you protect them from the evil one.” (John 17:14–15)
God doesn’t zap us to heaven the moment we’re saved because He’s given us a mission: to make disciples of all nations. We are called to influence the world—not be influenced by it.
“They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.” (John 17:16)
So What?
Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. (1 John 2:15)
The world says it’s all about you and your happiness.
The Kingdom of God says it’s all about Jesus and his glory.
The world says live for today.
The Kingdom of God says live for eternity.
The world says set your mind on things here below.
The Kingdom of God says set your mind on things above.
The world says only love your friends.
The Kingdom of God says love your enemies.
The world says it’s your body to do with as you please.
The Kingdom of God says your body is a temple, bought at a great price.
The world says your wealth is yours.
The Kingdom of God says everything we have belongs to the LORD.
Don’t love the world. Love its Creator.
Credits: edited by ChatGPT
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
Series: 1 John
May 11, 2025
1 John 2:12-17
Series Big Idea: One of Jesus’ best friends offers timeless teaching on following Jesus.
Big Idea: Don’t love the world, but rather love its Creator.
Scripture Reading: 1 John 2:15-17
I love to travel. I’ve been blessed to visit every continent except Antarctica—some trips for ministry, others for pleasure. I’ve encountered diverse cultures, foods, languages, music, and art. God has truly created a beautiful world for us to enjoy—alongside nearly 8 billion of our closest friends.
But this world is broken. Sin has been wreaking havoc since the Garden of Eden. So how do we live in the world but not of it?
As we continue our series on the first epistle (or short letter) written by John, we come to what feels like an intentional interruption in his message—a kind of parenthesis.
I am writing to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name. (1 John 2:12) I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. (1 John 2:13) I write to you, dear children, because you know the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one. (1 John 2:14)
John addresses children, fathers, and young men. Are these literal or spiritual categories? Scholars disagree. Let’s unpack what John is saying.
To the Children:
- Because your sins have been forgiven on account of His name. (v. 12)
- Because you know the Father. (v. 14)
Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. (John 1:12–13)
These believers knew their sins were forgiven through Jesus' death and resurrection. They had come to know the Father in an intimate way, able to call Him Abba—Papa, Daddy.
To the Fathers:
- Because you know Him who is from the beginning. (vv. 13–14)
To the Young Men:
- Because you have overcome the evil one. (v. 13)
- Because you are strong, the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one. (v. 14)
The vision of College First is to become a future-oriented church by 2028 that will see 33% of our congregation made up of kids, students, and young adults.
I’m thrilled about the direction we’re heading. Two years ago, we had one summer intern. Last year, two. This year, we’ll have six! These aren’t just helpers—they’re future pastors, missionaries, and leaders being loved, equipped, and sent out. Huge thanks to Nicky Inman and Pastor Nancy Hiser for their amazing work with NextGen.
John says twice that the young have overcome the evil one. This is already accomplished—not by our own strength, but through Christ’s victory. While the world is under the influence of Satan, believers are under the authority and protection of Jesus.
John tends to see things in black and white. I admit, life often feels more gray, but that may be more cultural than biblical. Jesus himself frequently used contrasts: light vs. darkness (John 8:12), the narrow vs. wide gate (Matt. 7:13–14), wise vs. foolish (Matt. 7:24–27), sheep vs. goats (Matt. 25:32), first vs. last (Matt. 19:30), humbled vs. exalted (Matt. 23:12).
Remember Jesus' words in John’s gospel:
“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. But you do not belong to the world—I have chosen you out of it. That’s why the world hates you.” (John 15:18–19)
Many people enter the U.S. as immigrants, students, or business professionals—but this is not their permanent home. In the same way, this world is not our home. We are citizens of another Kingdom—temporary residents here.
The sinful patterns of the world are in direct opposition to God’s ways. John writes:
Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. (1 John 2:15)
That’s as black and white as it gets. John is not telling us to hate creation, but to reject the world’s sinful systems. As the old saying goes: “Love God. Hate sin.”
For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. (1 John 2:16)
Let’s break that down:
- Lust of the flesh: Desires for sensual gratification that pull us away from God.
- Lust of the eyes: Coveting what we see—possessions, people, power. Eve saw that the fruit was “pleasing to the eye” (Gen. 3:6). David saw Bathsheba. These desires become idols when they replace God.
- Pride of life: Arrogance about our status or success. Everything we have is a gift from God. We must live in dependence on Him.
So here’s the real question: Has the world influenced us more than God?
I’m not saying we should all live off the grid. But are we Americans who happen to be Christians, or Christ-followers who happen to live in America?
If we are not of this world, why do we so often act like we are?
Following Jesus is more than wearing a cross necklace, saying a prayer, or going to church once a week. It’s about being holy—set apart, different, even peculiar. We are called to live in the world, but not of it.
The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. (1 John 2:17)
Ask yourself, "Which of these will matter in 100 years?"
- A new car
- Sharing your faith
- A job promotion
- Befriending an international student
- Having the latest iPhone
Jesus prayed to the Father:
“I have given them your word, and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world, but that you protect them from the evil one.” (John 17:14–15)
God doesn’t zap us to heaven the moment we’re saved because He’s given us a mission: to make disciples of all nations. We are called to influence the world—not be influenced by it.
“They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.” (John 17:16)
So What?
Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. (1 John 2:15)
The world says it’s all about you and your happiness.
The Kingdom of God says it’s all about Jesus and his glory.
The world says live for today.
The Kingdom of God says live for eternity.
The world says set your mind on things here below.
The Kingdom of God says set your mind on things above.
The world says only love your friends.
The Kingdom of God says love your enemies.
The world says it’s your body to do with as you please.
The Kingdom of God says your body is a temple, bought at a great price.
The world says your wealth is yours.
The Kingdom of God says everything we have belongs to the LORD.
Don’t love the world. Love its Creator.
Credits: edited by ChatGPT