Ashton Bartlett is under care of the HEartland Presbytery, this is his first sermon at MPC
Today’s Bulletin
1 John 2:28-3:3
28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming. 29 If you know that he is righteous, you may be sure that everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him.
3 See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 2 Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. 3 And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.
Sermon Discussion questions
1st John 2:8-3:3: The CHILDREN of God
Ice Breaker: What’s the most famous person you’ve ever seen in the real world?
This Week Specific
Abiding in Christ: What does it look like for you to “abide” in Christ in your daily life? How can you prioritize time in the Word, prayer, or fellowship with other believers this week?
Identity as God’s Child: How does the truth that you are a child of God shape how you view yourself? What steps can you take to rest in and live out that identity instead of seeking value from worldly sources?
Stewarding Time and Influence: What are you currently "abiding" in that may be pulling you away from God? Are there changes you need to make regarding how you spend your time or what influences your thoughts and actions?
Living for Eternity: How does the hope of Jesus’ return and the promise of eternal life impact the way you approach your relationships with family, coworkers, or neighbors?
Reflecting Christ: In what ways can you reflect the character of Jesus—sacrificially, lovingly, and faithfully—this week? Are there specific people or situations where God is calling you to act?
Confidence in Prayer and God’s Word: Do you believe that God hears your prayers and speaks to you through His Word as a loving Father? How can this truth deepen your trust and relationship with Him?
Responding to God’s Transforming Love: Knowing that God is working in you to make you more like Christ, how can you respond to His love and grace through worship, obedience, and loving others?
Weekly Questions
What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?
What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?
How can this group pray for you this week?