The Grace Message

Why do we pray if God knows everything? Is it God’s will to heal everyone? If not, then how do we pray for healing in a biblical way?

In the second message of our series, “Forever in His Presence: Understanding Our Unbroken Fellowship with God,” we examine the rock-solid evidence that 1 John 1:9 is directed at sin-deniers, not Christians! This distinction is crucial for grasping the completeness of our forgiveness in Christ. We’ll also unpack how Chapter 2 further clarifies that 1 John 1:9 is written to unbelievers, making the audience of this landmark passage unmistakable. Plus, we explore the profound truth that walking in the light means salvation, not just a temporary state of fellowship. Join us for this enlightening message and be inspired by the liberating truth of your once-for-all forgiveness and unshakeable fellowship with God! Discussion Questions: 1. Which verses in today’s message prove that light here means salvation, not a temporary state of “fellowship”? Why is this important? How does it help us understand 1 John 1:9 even better? 2. How does 1 John 2:12 help solidify that 1 John 1:9 is addressing the sin denier who says they have no sin and is in the darkness (unsaved)? 3. 1 John 1:9 is written to someone who does not have the truth in them. How does 1 John 2:4 further define this person as being an unbeliever? 4. What does John say to older believers and younger believers in verses 13 and 14? Why the different messages to different audiences? 5. What is the “commandment” that John keeps referring to in this passage? What evidence do we see in this passage for this conclusion? 6. What is the biggest takeaway from today’s message for you? Why?

What is adultery in God’s view? What about polygamy in the Old Testament? When we die, are we immediately with Jesus? Does Hebrews 10 mean anyone who sins “willfully” goes to hell? If we regard iniquity in our hearts, does God not hear us? It feels like my prayers are never answered. It causes me to doubt and wonder about my relationship with God.

Did Jesus only fulfill a portion of the Law? Is Hebrews 8:13 only referring to the sacrificial laws? What kind of repentance did the Jews (and Gentiles) need in Acts 2:38? My wife and I divorced a year ago, and I now wonder what God thinks and if I’m free to remarry. How does the Gospel speak into my situation?

Why was there polygamy in the Old Testament? Does it mean God is okay with it? Does morality change over time? Why did Jesus tell John the Baptist they were fulfilling all righteousness? What Bible version should I read?

Is every sin really willful? What about mistakes we make? I’ve heard your messages on a healthy marriage, and I agree and have implemented those truths. But I feel like I’m missing something that will make my marriage richer and deeper. At the same time, I’m afraid of losing my marriage. What can I do? Why are there so many conflicting passages on water baptism? Is it really needed for salvation?

How can I share the new covenant message of God’s grace with Catholics? With Protestants? With anyone? *previously aired

Can we be saved but still lack the Holy Spirit? Is there a second blessing? Doesn't 1 John 1:9 mean we confess to God for relational forgiveness? I used to experience so much peace and joy with God, but lately I'm not feeling any of it. What can I do?

In this first message of our new series on 1 John, “Forever in His Presence,” we explore how “experiencing the presence of God” has often been miscommunicated in the church, missing the incredible truth of our constant union with Christ. We also address common misunderstandings about “fellowship” with God. Many think our fellowship with God can be lost or broken, especially when we sin. But we’ll discuss what really happens with the Holy Spirit when we stumble and what remains unchanged. Plus, you’ll discover that 1 John 1:9 was written – not as a “bar of soap” for daily forgiveness – but to those denying their sinfulness. (And, yes, this means we as believers already have complete forgiveness and cleansing of all unrighteousness!). Join us and get encouraged by the profound truths of our unbreakable fellowship with God! Discussion Questions: 1. How has “experiencing the presence of God” been communicated popularly in the church today? How does this perspective fall short of the amazing truth? 2. How has the concept of “fellowship” been misunderstood in the Christian world today? What is the truth about our fellowship with God? 3. What about when we sin? What happens with the Holy Spirit? What does not happen with Him? (Be specific on the consequences of sin and what we retain.) 4. What heresies is John combating in his first chapter? Why is this so important to understand? 5. How do verses 8 and 10 shed light on who needs the solution of verse 9? Explain. 6. React to this statement: 1 John 1:9 was written to sin deniers, and we believers already have forgiveness and cleansing of all unrighteousness, forever!

Is the new covenant a “renewed” covenant? This ministry saved my life! Why does Hebrews 12 talk about God’s discipline in connection with holiness? What are your thoughts about church based on gender, race, etc.?  What about couples who live together? Do we need to confess every sin to be forgiven by God?