Big Idea: You are what you love.

You are what you love, so love the truth.

            1 John 2:12-14 (NLT)

Truth for the children of God:

• Your sins are forgiven because of Jesus.
• You know God.

Truth for those young in the faith:

• You have victory over evil.
• You have strength.
• God’s word is in you.

Truth for those mature in the faith:

• You know Jesus.
• You know Jesus.

You are what you love, so don’t love the world.

            1 John 2:15

What does “the world” mean?

            John 3:16

            John 15:18-19

John uses “the world” to describe the totality of fallen creation that is in rebellion against God.

            1 John 2:16

The three pursuits of the world:

• I want to feel good.
• I want to get what I want.
• I want to look good.

            Luke 9:23-24

You are what you love, so love what lasts.

            1 John 2:17

Message Questions

Arguably no one was closer to Jesus than John. Known as “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” John got to see the abundant life of Jesus up close and personal. And after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, John experienced a life of following Jesus longer than any other New Testament author. Now, at the end of a life well lived, having nearly finished the race, John has some thoughts he’d like to share with us. What does it look like to embrace the new life that Jesus offers us? What will bring abundance and joy? According to John, it looks like walking in love, truth, and light. This week we are in 1 John 2:12-17, and the big idea is: You are what you love. 

Use these questions to discuss the message from Sunday, focusing on how you can grow as an everyday follower of Jesus and how you can go accomplish what Jesus calls you to do. 

1. Have someone read 1 John 2:12-14. What encouragement does John give to people at different stages in their faith? Which group do you most identify with right now, and why? 
2. Have someone read 1 John 2:15-17. What do you think John means by “the world,” and how is it different from how the term is used in John 3:16? 
3. Have someone read 1 John 2:16 again. What temptations in your life most often fall into the categories of lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, or pride in possessions? 
4. What would it look like to grow in loving what lasts instead of chasing what won’t? 
5. How could you go and help someone else reorient their loves toward God this week?