Episode 14: 1 John - Behind The Message

During this week’s Behind The Message, Jennifer and Daniel discuss further the message taken from 1 John 2 on antichrists. Pastor Paul joins them and talks about some of the marks of an antichrist and offers practical steps to take in standing guard against their influence. 

 

Big Truth: 

ANTICHRISTS ARE ALL AROUND US

 

WHAT IS AN ANTICHRIST?

Big Ideas

An antichrist is someone who compels the heart to hope in false saviors instead of Jesus. (2:22)

Antichrists distort the truth, deceive the mind, and deny the gospel. (2:22-23, 26)

 

Marks of an Antichrist...

• • Abandonment of God’s people (2:19)
  • Denial of the gospel (2:22)
  • Denial of the Trinity (2:22-23)
  • Disregard for God’s Word (2:24-26)
  • An elevation of new revelation over God’s Word (2:26-27)

 

WHY SHOULD WE BE CONCERNED? 

Big Idea: 

We are a people whose minds are prone to deception and whose hearts are prone to wander. (2:21-22, 26)

 

HOW SHOULD WE RESPOND?

Big Ideas: 

We live with the urgency of eternity. (2:18, 28)

We hold fast our confession that Jesus alone is Lord and Savior. (2:23)

We know, love, obey, and share the Word of truth. (2:24)

We love God’s family. (2:19; 2:29-3:1)

We abide in Jesus. (2:28)

 

Discussion

Lead Group Members to discuss the following…

 

What Got You? 

Ask your group members to each share a takeaway from the weekend’s sermon or from the BTM video that got them thinking or doing.

 

Read Jude 1:17-23. Discuss the following:

• • In this passage, what are the listed characteristics of an antichrist?
  • From this passage, identify ways that believers can guard against antichrists.

Read Romans 3:10-18. Answer the following questions:

• • How does this passage stand in contrast to the teaching of the world? 
  • In light of this passage, why should believers be diligent in guarding against antichrists? 

Consider the Big Ideas listed under the “How Should We Respond” section. 

• • Which of these big ideas are you implementing well and which of these big ideas do you need to work on most? 
  • Share with your discussion group a plan for working on the big idea you have identified.