1 John 2:18-27

1. What do you think it means to “abide in” Christ?
2. Read 1 John 2:18-23. What has been your historic understanding about who or what the “antichrist” is?
3. By John’s definition of “antichrist,” in what ways do you see people today deceived into openly opposing Christ as He is revealed in Scripture? You don’t have to name names—just try to identify some of the false teachings you’ve heard people embrace today that actually oppose the true person and work of Jesus. What is it about their claims that you think people find attractive to follow?
4. Not every theological disagreement takes someone outside the faith. Many differences can charitably exist among believers without calling into question the foundation of one’s salvation. But some truths are so central to the good news of the gospel that denying them is, in effect, turning to a different gospel entirely—one that cannot save. John writes to address a problem that did rise to the level of serious concern. Namely, that many in the early church denied either Christ’s divinity or His humanity. Why is it essential that Jesus be both fully God and fully man in order to save sinners?
5. Read 1 John 2:24–27. To “abide” in something means to make it your home. It means living in, remaining in, dwelling in. So, when Jesus says in John 15:4, “Abide in me, and I in you” what He invites us into is a life connected to Him so completely that His love, wisdom, joy, and power guide everything we do. What does abiding in Christ look like for you on a day-to-day basis?
6. Open your Bible to John 15. Spend some time reading Jesus’ words and meditating deeply on what He is inviting you into. Then go to Him in adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and voice all of your requests to Him. Use whatever you see in John 15 to fuel your prayers together.