We're still looking at I John this week -- and probably a few more weeks to come ;). This week, I think we'll be looking at Chapter 2:12-17. Maybe more, but we'll just have to see how the week goes and how the Lord leads. I know we will definitely spend quite a bit of our time discussing verses 15-17 (hence, the title). These verses seem to state emphatically that we should not love the world. Take a look:
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. 17And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
How about just some questions to start the conversation (plus, I'm limited on time today).
The first thing that comes to mind to me is wanting to REALLY know what the apostle meant here because he says if I love the world, the love of the Father is not in me. And he also writes that world is passing away, and I want to the eternal life given in Jesus (not passing away).
So, does this mean I can't love a certain kind of food or a football team or a country? We know that we're commanded to love God and others, but what about these other things (things of the world). How do we know if we slipped in to loving the things of the world?
Some obvious questions I'm asking myself are:
1) Are there things in my life that take priority over serving God?
2) Are there things or activities, etc. in my life that I'm more passionate about than God? What makes jump for joy? What makes your heart race (meaning excited not running on a treadmill)?
3) What do I crave or desire that I see shaping the things I do?
I think that John is communicating that we should not have any "loves" or "desires" that are from the World and not God. Hopefully, through discussion, reading of scripture, seeking wisdom from the Holy Spirit this week, we can unpack what this means and how it applies to our lives?
As my favorite pastor of discipleship would say: questions, comments, rebukes, or rebuttals? The floor (or the blog) is open.
In Christ,
Craig
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2 comments:
I am reminded of something JPod said one particular evening service....he said "Don't love this life or this world more than Christ. The good in this world is only for a season." WOW! How often do I put everything before God? I tend to spend time with God when I have nothing better to do. I occupy all my time with so much "seasonal stuff." I am convicted!
true...things of the world do not last...nor will you take them with you to Heaven..."when was the last time you saw a hearse pulling a u-haul"...get wrapped up in God...his will...and the things he has to offer for your life...doesn't mean you can't enjoy foods, football, recreation, travel, ect...just don't let them take you away from serving God.
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