That You May Not Sin (1 John 2:1-2) - 6/20/21

Download the Sermon Notes for June 20, 2021.

Recall John’s three purposes for writing:

1. 1:4, That we might have JOY - which results from fellowship

2. 2:1-2, That we might not SIN - that we do not break the fellowship upon which our joy is based

3. 5:11-13, That we might have ASSURANCE - that we might know without doubt that we are saved

NOTE a solemn warning in Chapter 2. It says, "sin not."

There are two perversions of this doctrine of sin possible if we misconstrue Chapter 1:

1. 1:8,10, Since we can never fully overcome sin, why strive for holiness? It is useless; sin is inevitable.

2. 1:9, Since sin is so easily forgiven, why dread it? We may sin without worry since Jesus' blood cleanses us.

Forgiveness does not eradicate responsibility!

Num. 32:23, Gal. 6:7; Rom. 2:6

1. God's Goal: is PERFECTION, no sin. (2:1a).

“That you may not sin...”

(Matt. 5:48; Col. 1:28; 1 Pet. 1:15-16)

There are a number of phrases we use in this regard:

• "God and I have an understanding."

• "I have prayed about this and God has okayed it."

• "I have a unique situation; God understands." (1 Cor. 10:13; 1 Pet. 5:9)

• "After all, God will forgive me." (Ps. 19:13)

The issue here, as always, is, what does God’s Word say?

(Prov. 3:5-6; Ps. 37:4 )

Sam Cathey: "God's desire ought to be your ambition."

2. God's Grace: there is a PAYMENT for sin (2:1b).

"And if anyone sins..."

Two key words:

• Advocate

• Propitiation

NOW, for whom is Christ Advocate?

3. God's Goodness: there is POWER over sin

(Rom. 6:11-14)

How can you get right with God?

1. Quit trying to tell God how good you are.

2. Quit blaming your sin on others.

3. Quit blaming your sin on your situation, background, genes, parents, economics, etc.

What is sin?

(1 John 3:4; 5:17; Jam. 4:17; Rom. 14:23; John 16:8-9)