Home Group guide

John begins his first letter by emphasizing the reality of the incarnation, during which Jesus assumed human form and lived with us. John was an eyewitness to Jesus’s life and ministry. He could hardly have conveyed his meaning more forcefully. He is vouching for his message from his own personal experience. His message is supremely concerned with the historical, audible, visible, and tangible manifestation of the eternal.

Jesus, the eternal Son, came so we could know God and find joy. Because he revealed God to us, we can have a relationship with God through Jesus. This is how we experience true joy and real fellowship. Still, complete joy remains out of reach in our sinful world, as perfect fellowship cannot be realized. Thus, John’s message should be viewed as pointing beyond this life to eternal life in heaven, where perfect fellowship will result in complete joy.
 

1. Think of a remarkable experience you have had (i.e., an amazing place you visited, an incredible meal you ate, a remarkable person you met.) How would you explain it to people who have not had the same experience?

2. Read 1 John 1:1-4. What makes John so confident in the message of the gospel? What is the foundation for his assertions?

3. Why is it important that the events recorded in the bible are historically accurate? What would be at stake if the message of Jesus were not true? (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:13-17)

4. The gospel's message is that we can enjoy true fellowship, both with God and with other believers (v.3). Why is it crucial for Christian fellowship to extend beyond merely enjoying one another’s company? What does this kind of Christ-centered community look like?

5.  When have you felt the greatest joy from true fellowship with Christ? Although you were not present when Jesus Christ lived on earth, in what ways can you say that you experienced his presence?

6. Reflect on your fears, worries, distractions, self-serving desires, and various obstacles. What prevents you from enjoying a closer relationship with Christ on a daily basis? What practical steps can you take to eliminate these barriers?

7. John references the term “fellowship” twice to describe our relationships with Christ and the Father and with one another as his church. How does John’s description challenge us to consider the time spent with other believers (in worship, bible study, prayer, etc.? What are some ways we can be more intentional when we meet with fellow believers?

Article: “10 Things You Should Know About the Incarnation” by Stephen Wellum
Article: “The Shocking Implications of Incarnation” by Bethany Jenkins
Commentary: 1 John by Ray Van Neste

If you're interested in joining a Home Group, fill out the interest form below or contact Doug Barnwell at dbarnwell@fellowshipjackson.com