Sermons

Love vs. Sin: Cain's Downfall

Jeremy Swift

Published on: 12/08/2025

The message from 1 John 3:11-18 reveals a powerful principle: do what you're supposed to do (love) so you don't do what you're not supposed to do (sin). John contrasts the story of Cain, who murdered out of hatred, with Christ's self-sacrificial love. When we prioritize loving God and others, we naturally avoid sinful behaviors. This love isn't just words but manifests in practical actions, like helping those in need. Our theology shapes our actions, and genuine love serves as a guard against sin. The path forward, even when facing opposition, is always love.

A Journey Through 1 John

Can you Love God and Live in Compromise?

Darlene Washburn

Published on: 05/08/2025

First John 3:4-10 delivers a powerful message about the true marks of a believer. Written to Christians facing false teachers who claimed one could live in sin while loving God, John establishes two unmistakable characteristics of authentic faith. First, true believers cannot live in habitual sin while walking with God, as Jesus came specifically to free us from sin's destruction. Second, genuine faith manifests in demonstrable love and compassion for others. True Christianity transforms us from the inside out, changing our hearts rather than just modifying our external religious behaviors. This passage invites us to honestly examine our lives for these essential marks of faith.

A Journey Through 1 John

What kind of Love? 1 John 3:1-3

Al Calderone

Published on: 29/07/2025

The Bible distinguishes between four types of love in Greek: agape (selfless, sacrificial love), storge (familial love), phileo (brotherly love), and eros (passionate love). Agape is considered supreme because it's unconditional and sacrificial - the kind of love God has for us and expects us to show others. As God's children, we're called to be different from the world, not seeking popularity but truth. Our true nature hasn't yet been fully revealed, but we know that when Christ appears, we will be like Him. This hope in Christ purifies us and motivates us to live differently now.

A Journey Through 1 John

A Walk Through 1st John: Spiritual Substitutes

Jeremy Swift

Published on: 15/07/2025

In a world filled with spiritual counterfeits, we must be vigilant against substitutes for genuine Christianity. The apostle John warned about 'antichrists' - those who deny Jesus's true identity and offer alternative spiritual paths. True believers are anointed by the Holy Spirit and can discern truth from falsehood. The key marker of authentic faith is acknowledging Jesus as the Christ, the divine Son of God. To guard against spiritual counterfeits, we must abide in Christ, stay rooted in biblical truth, and maintain a deep relationship with Jesus through prayer and His Word.

A Journey Through 1 John