Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for June 8, 2014

“Dread or Delight?” 1 John 4:17-18 Bible Study 06/08/14

After addressing repeatedly the staggering reality of God’s love for His children, John proceeds to focus on the believer’s love for God. In our text this morning, he asserts that maturing love for God meets the future day of judgment with confident assurance. When you are advancing in love, you can anticipate the future day of judgment with confident assurance.

I. Confidence flows out of your standing and sharing (17)

-a matter of rejoicing
-a matter of resembling

II. The love that displays confidence dispels fear (18)

-distinguish between prescribed fear and prohibited fear
-bask in the light of pardon
-banish the dread of punishment
-stand on the promises

III. So what?

-“O the pure delight of a single hour that before Thy throne I spend, when I kneel in prayer, and with Thee, my God, I commune as friend with friend.” (Fanny Crosby)

-What do others learn from your worship?
-How are you related to the Judge?
-Treasure His appearing and trust His atonement.