Bible Band Lesson (March 21, 2013)

Topic: The Proof of Love

Lesson Text: I John 3:11-24

Devotional Reading: Mark 12:28-34; Deuteronomy 6:5; Leviticus 19:18

Central Verse: We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. KJV

We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love our brothers. Anyone who does not love remains in death. I John 3:14 NIV

Key Terms:

Hate (verses 13,15) – to be hated, detested.

Death (verse 14) – in the widest sense, death comprising all the miseries arising from sin, as well physical death as the loss of a life consecrated to God and blessed in him on earth, to be followed by wretchedness in hell.

Life (verses 14,15) – life real and genuine, a life active and vigorous, devoted to God, blessed, in the portion even in this world of those who put their trust in Christ, but after the resurrection to be consummated by new accessions (among them a more perfect body), and to last for ever.

Introduction:

Saints, do we know that we are truly Christians? The answer given to us is very simple in nature. We have learned to love others because of Jesus. The world is looking for genuine Christianity so that they can follow it, but that is hard to find.  How much like a fresh breath of air it is when we find someone who loves unconditionally and who has learned to react to situations the way Jesus would. Love is the mark of those who say they are following Jesus.