How to Overcome the World

1. Read 1 John 5:1-5. If we truly love God, we will love his children and obey his commands. And John writes, "[God's] commands are not burdensome (hard to bear)" (5:3). In what way(s) are God's commands "not burdensome?"

Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30, NIV).

"I delight to do your will, O my God" (Psalm 40:8)

2. Then why do we sometimes struggle to obey?

3. The phrase "overcome(s) the world" occurs three times in verses 4-5. Who "overcomes the world?" What does it mean for us to "overcome the world?" (Consider 1 John 2:15-17, 4:1-6)

4. For us to "overcome the world," what essential ingredient is needed in our lives?

* Jesus said, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33b, NIV).

Reflection/Application
† Do you find it extremely difficult to do what is right (that is, what God commands)? Only the child of God has the desire and ability to obey God's commands. Have you become a child of God through faith in Jesus Christ?

† As a Christian, are you "overcoming the world?" Identify specific "worldly" attitudes and habits in your life. Choose one or more of these attitudes or habits, and commit to change. By God's grace, live by faith.

The Basis of Faith

5. Read 1 John 5:6-11. Some false teachers taught that the divine Christ (the Son of God) descended on Jesus at his baptism and left him before his death. What is wrong with this view? How does verse 6 refute this teaching?

6. The Old Testament law required two or three witnesses to prove a claim (Deuteronomy 19:15). What are the three witnesses listed by John, and what do they testify? Why should we accept their testimony?

* Jesus said, "When the Counselor comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father, he will testify about me" (John 15:26, NIV).

7. In what way is "life" connected to belief in God's testimony concerning Jesus Christ?

Reflection/Application
† Have you believed "God's testimony" concerning Christ? If not, identify the specific reasons why you do not believe, and seek Christian responses to your objections, with an open heart.

† If you have believed God's testimony, in what ways are you testifying concerning Christ (John 15:27)? Determine what you need to do in order to be an active witness for Christ.