We are children of God—called to fight and live in the victory of Christ
FOCUS TEXT: 1 John 2:28-3:10
This past Sunday, we continued our series, KNOW: You Can Be Sure, by exploring what it truly means to be a child of God. John draws a sharp distinction—there is no neutral ground. You either belong to God or remain in sin. This is an identity war, a battle for your soul. The question is: Who is your father?
Children of God Reflect the Family Likeness — John writes, “By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil” (1 John 3:10). True identity is revealed through our lives—those who belong to God will practice righteousness and love others. Many assume they are children of God while still living in rebellion. But Scripture is clear: Salvation transforms us. False identities often shape our lives—whether through culture, political ideology, or self-righteousness. But in Christ, our primary identity is as children of God. Have you let something other than Christ define you? What in your life reflects your true allegiance?
Jesus, Our Warrior King, Fought to Win Us Back — John declares, “The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil” (1 John 3:8). Jesus didn’t come just to teach morals—He came to crush sin’s power and reclaim us for God. The cross was a battlefield where Jesus defeated Satan, broke the chains of sin, and secured our redemption. If you are in Christ, your chains are gone, your identity is restored. Yet many live as if they are still in bondage. The enemy’s only weapon now is deception—convincing you that you are still enslaved. Are you living in the victory Christ has won for you?
Children of God Fight the Works of the Devil — “No one born of God makes a practice of sinning” (1 John 3:9). While believers still struggle, they do not live in habitual sin. The Spirit convicts, strengthens, and leads us to holiness. True children of God wage war against sin, not make peace with it. Fighting sin isn’t about willpower—it’s about abiding in Christ. The more you love Jesus, the less sin appeals to you. The battle is not just against sin, but for your affections. Who or what has your heart?
The Warrior, Our Eternal Hope, is Coming Again — John reminds us: “When He appears we shall be like Him” (1 John 3:2). One day, Jesus will return, and sin will be no more. Those who long for His coming live differently today. Hope in Christ purifies us, realigns our priorities, and reminds us that the things of this world will not last. Are you ready for His return? Will you stand with confidence, or shrink in shame? If you are in Christ, you have nothing to fear—He is coming to bring His children home.
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
Does my life reflect my identity as a child of God?
Am I making peace with sin, or fighting it through Christ’s power?
Am I living in anticipation of Jesus’ return?
PRAYER RESPONSE: Lord, help me live in the victory of Christ. Keep me from deception, strengthen me to fight sin, and set my hope on Your return. May my life reflect You. Amen.
MEMORY VERSE: “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.” – 1 John 3:1
