Sermons

Title: Truth Under Attack

Series: That You May Know
Text: 1 John 2:18–3:10

In this message, we confront the reality that truth is under constant attack. John reminds believers that we are living in the “last hour,” a time marked by deception, false teaching, and the rise of antichrist influences. These deceivers deny the identity and work of Christ and seek to lead others astray. But the true believer is called to remain anchored in God’s Word, walk in righteousness, and live with evidence of a transformed life.

John warns that the spirit of antichrist is already active through false teachers, and urges his readers to abide in the truth they’ve heard “from the beginning.” He reassures them of the Holy Spirit’s anointing, which helps them discern truth from lies. He outlines five features of Christian hope (2:28–3:3), which help guard against deception: abiding in Christ, practicing righteousness, rejoicing in God’s love, longing for Christ’s return, and striving for purity.

Finally, John emphasizes that ongoing, habitual sin without repentance is incompatible with being a child of God. True believers display lives of righteousness and love for others. Those who love sin and hate others are walking in darkness and self-deception. In a culture of counterfeits, the way to stay grounded is by abiding in God's Word and walking in righteousness.

Main Idea: In order to spot the counterfeit, you must abide in God’s Word and walk in righteousness.

1. The Enemy Is Constantly Attacking Truth

1 John 2:18–19

• The “last hour” refers to the time between Christ’s ascension and return.

• False teachers and “antichrists” emerge from within the church, revealing their true nature by abandoning truth.

• Satan’s strategy is deception. (cf. 1 Tim 4:1–2)

• The “Antichrist” is future, but “many antichrists” are already active.

Application: Are you discerning false gospels, including those that distort Christ’s person and work (e.g., Mormonism, Jehovah’s Witnesses)?

2. We Can Resist the Lies of the Enemy by Walking in Truth

1 John 2:28–3:3

• Abide in Christ so we won’t shrink back at His coming (v. 28)

• Everyone born of God practices righteousness (v. 29)

• God's love assures us of our identity as His children (3:1)

• One day we will be like Christ (3:2)

• Those who hope in Him purify themselves (3:3)

Application: Abide in God’s Word. Stay close to the truth. Look for growth in purity and hope.

3. Evidence of Walking in Truth Is a Hatred for Sin and a Desire for Righteousness

1 John 3:4–10

• Habitual sin is lawlessness and incompatible with abiding in Christ.

• Jesus came to take away sins (v. 5)

• Children of God practice righteousness and love their brothers.

• Those who live in unrepentant sin show evidence of not being born of God (v. 10)

Application: Do you abhor sin and seek righteousness? Do you love your Christian family?

Closing Scripture:
Romans 12:9 – "Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good."

1 John 3:10 – "By this it is evident who are the children of God... whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother."

Speaker: Dan Krause

July 13, 2025

1 John 2:18-3:10

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