We live during a time of transition in Christian history. Perhaps we live at the moment of greatest challenge to Christianity since its birth almost two thousand years ago. Basic assumptions about the truth of the Christian faith are being questioned, not only by nonbelievers, but by Christians themselves. A shrinking globe has facilitated the introduction of a variety of religious worldviews.

The time has come for a new understanding of what it means to “be” Christian. First John offers a starting point. It is a spiritual lesson that calls for a radical understanding of the Christian life grounded in the embrace of Jesus Christ and in the selfless living and loving that emerges out of that embrace. It is our allegiance to Jesus Christ that makes us Christian. And it is this allegiance that offers the only hope for the revitalization of Christian faith in a changing culture.

NextSunday Resources provides adult Bible studies on a wide range of topics, all of which are useful for individual or group study. A printed Study Guide offers four, five or six lessons with in-depth commentary and Bible background material. A free, downloadable Teaching Guide features a wealth of options, questions and ideas for teaching each lesson.

Materials Included

• 4 Sessions of Learner’s Materials

• 4 Sessions of Teaching Materials

• 2 Handouts

Sessions Included

1. Embracing the Story

2. Encouragement in Christ

3. Embodying Love for Each Other

4. Empowered by God’s Love

Age Group

Adult

Scriptures

1. 1 John 1:1-10

2. 1 John 2:1-17

3. 1 John 3:11-24

4. 1 John 4:7-5:5