Chapter 4 Summary
- In this chapter, the apostle revisits the topic of “antichrists” and false prophets (1 John 4:1-6). Remember, one of the goals of this letter is to warn the brethren against men who would deny the true nature of Jesus Christ (1 John 4:2-3).
- God expects His people to “test” teachers. We must compare what someone teaches with God’s word. If what a teacher promotes is contrary to the truth, they are deceivers and must be avoided. The real children of God only listen to the inspired words revealed to the New Testament apostles and prophets (1 John 4:6).
- In 1 John 4:7-21, we learn that God’s actions toward us is the perfect example of love. God demonstrated perfect love by giving His Son to be the propitiation for our sins (1 John 4:7-10).
- Since God loved us first, we should love one another (1 John 4:11, 19). If we don’t love one another, we cannot honestly say that we love God (1 John 4:20-21). When we love one another, we can confidently anticipate the Judgment Day (1 John 4:17).
Chapter 4 Questions
- What instructions are given regarding teachers (1 John 4:1-6)? Why must we do this?
- What perfect example does John give regarding love (1 John 4:7-11)? Why does the apostle provide this example?
- According to 1 John 4:19-21, what will we do if we truly love God? If we fail to do this, what does it mean?
- If we love one another, what can we live with (1 John 4:17)? Why? See 1 John 4:18.
