Written by Paul J Bucknell on September, 19, 2024

1 John 2:12-14 Three Stages of Christian Maturity, Part 2

This is the second of two articles. The first introduces the concept of John's three discipleship stages from 1 John 2:12-14.

3. The Challenges of Spiritual Growth

Spiritual growth begins by gaining spiritual life. With both spiritual and physical life, growth is natural and expected. Once we understand the development process, as discussed above, we can begin to ask serious questions. 

• Doesn’t God want all Christians to grow?
• Why don’t all Christians grow at the same pace?
• Why is it that many Christians do not grow to their fullest?

In the Parable of the Sower, Jesus identified how a person’s heart shapes their receptivity to God’s Word. The more we receive God’s Word into our hearts, the more we grow. When we obey, our knowledge must move from our minds to our hearts.

Satan is looking for ways to steal God’s Word from our hearts (Luke 8:12-14). In a sense, it doesn’t matter much if you attend many meetings if the Word of God quickly evaporates from your mind. John shows how vital discipleship is to the life of every Christian. Mentors can play a very influential role in the lives of believers.

Temptations include purposeful means by which the evil one maliciously instigates doubts about God and His Word. For example, I remember when my brother and I set up traps. We lived near the woods, took fine nylon string, and set it across a path. Our purpose was clear: to trip up those walking on the path. (In fact, only fictitious enemies crossed those paths.) The devil does this in our spiritual lives. Are we not warned by the Apostle Paul about the schemer?

“Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Eph 6:10-12).

If we are wise and observe John’s words, we can go through those stages relatively unscathed. But if we are uncareful, unbelieving, or arrogant, we will be roughened up pretty badly in some cases. The key to overcoming temptation lies in understanding three things:

1. Our special needs
2. Our special weaknesses
3. The particular advice the Lord gives

John alerts us to knowledge that can boost our spiritual journey and keep us from his temptations. If you are looking for quick fixes, don’t. Solutions are found in consistent, ongoing spiritual disciplines. What good is it if we are strong for one week and flounder in unconfessed sin the next? We must consistently protect ourselves because our enemy, “the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).

Let’s examine these three stages, along with the unique temptations they encounter and the advice they are given.

4. The Children’s Advice (12-13) 

The most significant purpose for the children, the new believers, is to secure their trust in their Lord.

The children are addressed twice, once in 2:12 and again in 2:13. John calls the Christians ‘little children.’ The elderly apostle uses the phrase ‘children’ many times throughout 1 John, such as in 2:1, “My little children.” Here, however, he addresses all Christians. In 1 John 2:12-14, where he differentiates the three levels or stages of growth, ‘children’ cannot refer to all believers, so they must refer to very young or new Christians. I have elsewhere gone into length defending this viewpoint. 

Some people are older when they become a new Christian. It may feel funny to describe them as children; however, we should not be bothered by this. Does not David call all of God’s people sheep in Psalm 23? John uses children to emphasize our inclusion into God’s family. Once in God’s family, we have special privileges and obligations. Wise children can grow into maturity by being attentive to doing what God says in His Word.

Please understand. What he says about these new Christians is valid for all Christians. We are not saying that those truths he mentions no longer apply when one goes through a stage—not at all. They form a foundation, however. Christian growth assumes learning or gaining confidence in particular truths at different stages. If these truths are not adequately acquired, then those Christians will suffer a handicap. These truths are seen in the lines he identifies for the new Christian. What does John say?

“I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for His name’s sake” (12).

“I have written to you, children, because you know the Father” (13).

Can you identify the two or three truths John emphasizes as most important for new believers in Christ in these verses? First, we are forgiven. Second, forgiveness is gained only by (Christ’s) name. (I combine them in the first point below.) Third, we know the Father, God Himself. Each point addresses a specific need for these new believers to grow spiritually. Let's examine each truth separately.

(1) Sins are forgiven through Christ.

The first important point is that we have forgiveness of sins because of what Christ has done for us on the cross. This can be seen in two ways: 1) forgiveness of sins and 2) through Christ. They are both essential teachings to salvation. (These two could be made separate points.)

A person comes to know God first by recognizing and confessing his sins. But he doesn’t stop there. He continues to believe in Jesus Christ and finds complete forgiveness. John concisely captures this crucial truth.

We must not think that a person is a believer because he lives near Christians, in a ‘Christian’ country, or even likes to associate with Christians. A person does not become a Christian by regularly attending church or making an offering. 

Salvation happens when God’s Spirit draws close to a person, making that person knowledgeable of his sin. He feels uncomfortable (this is spiritual conviction). He might never have thought seriously about his problem of lying or yelling at his wife, but now, something is different. He now knows it is very wrong. I used to think I was a pretty good fellow, especially when I compared myself to my brother, but the instant God exposed my sins, I became horrified of my dark and ugly ways, fully realizing I deserved to go to hell. I then knew I needed to be saved and called on God to save me. (He graciously revealed the Gospel message at that time in a youth meeting.)

A person can find forgiveness but only through Jesus Christ. This is more clearly stated earlier in the chapter.

“My little children, I am writing these things to you that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world” (1 John 2:1-2).

We have no other way to find forgiveness but faith in the Lord Jesus. If our problem is our sin, then it is rather ludicrous to think we can ignore our sin, considering the holy God can forget or overlook it. Just look at what is said in 1 John 1:5.

“And this is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5).

In God’s eyes, there are no gray areas. Our sin deserved judgment. When we, in faith, believe Christ has died for all our sins and that our sins are wholly forgiven, our sin is entirely wiped clean. This truth is critical to salvation. If you think, whatever stage a Christian you might be, that there is one sin that has kept you back as a second-class Christian, then you are mistaken. We must return to the most foundational truth of forgiveness. It applies to all kinds of sins. Sins can be things we have said or done, but they can occur only in what we think. Only in Christ’s Name can we find complete forgiveness. 

Applications of these truths

1. Satan can make new Christians feel unworthy of salvation by causing them to struggle with feelings of guilt. This can lead the believer to give up or leave the church because they believe they are not good enough. While we all need to ‘be better,’ we cannot earn salvation (Eph 2:8-9). Our sins are completely forgiven in Christ. This doesn't give us a free pass to sin but enriches us with a mighty hope.

 2. “Your sins have been forgiven you” (12). We are forgiven! This is such a blessing. We might not feel that we deserve forgiveness because we do not. That is okay; we do not deserve it. Receiving God’s undeserving love comes from His mercy and is meant to increase our affection for Him rather than make us feel shunned by our Father in heaven. Satan, however, injects fear that God will leave a person if he sins, but clearly, John assures His people in 2:1 that we have an Advocate if we sin.

3. “For His name’s sake” (1 John 2:12). Some believers need clarification on whether works gain salvation or if it is a gift. The new Christian is not troubled about receiving forgiveness if they remember why Jesus died for their sins. We are not forgiven by our works but by faith in Christ’s work on the cross. When we genuinely learn of His gracious forgiveness of our sins, we will forgive others as He has done for us.

(2) Relationship with God our Father

“I have written to you, children, because you know the Father” (1 John 2:13). He says he writes to new believers because they know the Father.  While we grow in our knowledge of God the Father, we have a relationship with Him! He is our Father, not one day He might adopt you. Non-Christians, on the other hand, do not belong to God’s family. “But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him” (Rom 8:9).

I love our big family with eight children. However, as much as I like you or other children, you aren’t part of my family. People tell us that our children look very alike. The same is true with God’s family. You must be born of God to be part of God’s family. When you are, you can call God your Father. That is his or her right. The One who made all the stars and earth is now your Father, whom you can cry out to for help and protection.

You don’t need to be essential to get God’s help; you are His child! As a new believer, you have all the rights of those who have been in God’s family for many years. How amazing! You have the Holy Spirit just like someone who has known the Lord for forty years. You can pray. You have every right to read God’s Word and hear Him speak to you. However, the new believer has unique needs.

Needs of Children: Understanding security

Let’s think a moment about a child’s needs. The child has many apparent needs. Unlike animals, infants need lots of care (Romans 8:15, Abba Father; Gal 4:6). Without this care, they cannot survive. They have energy, life, and growth but need security. Young children need all that care lavished upon them! This describes well the love and warmth new Christians need to grow.

If security is so important, then we should expect Satan’s darts to be tipped with a poison that loosens the confidence of these little ones. He makes them feel isolated and vulnerable so he can prey on them. He often succeeds. The evil one mainly uses these three tactics.

“You don’t belong!”

(Satan) Satan whispers that they are not saved.

(God) But you are completely forgiven.

“You aren’t good enough.”

(S) He instigates guilt, making them feel unworthy.

(G) Of course, you aren’t good enough to deserve salvation; that is God’s grand mercy. You are saved because of what Jesus did for you on the cross. He suffered for you.

“You aren’t holy like the others.” 

(S) He causes a sense of inferiority. 

(G) But you are my child with full rights! 

The new or young believer in Christ needs a mentor to clarify the certainty of their relationship with God through Christ and affirm the particular way they can now relate to God as their Heavenly Father.  

Strategy for Properly Caring for the Children (New believers)

New believers must be well cared for by other believers. Babies are dependent on their parents and need to be cared for so that they can learn from their parents' knowledge and experience. The same is true for new believers, who need to be carefully instructed in certain areas. 

• The plan of salvation 
• The meaning of salvation 
• Their Heavenly Father’s care (assurance of salvation)

An overwhelming sense of confidence and joy wells up in the new Christian’s life because God especially cares for each new believer. They are significantly protected from Satan’s devices and have an extra portion of grace, being hidden in Christ. Our Father watches over us all, but He keeps a particular eye on the children as is proper. 

Hints on being part of God’s Family

• Interrelate - connect with other spiritual brothers and sisters and build relationships. Smaller churches have their advantages here.
• Obedience - Obey God, as seen in His Word. He also gives us elders and pastors to lead us in obedience.
• Invitation - Be available and attentive to how God wants you to share the Gospel with others. God wants a growing family.
• Significant - each believer is of utmost value. Never think of yourself as lost but belonging. Encourage others who take their eyes off of Jesus.

4. Confirming The Fathers (13-14)

The order John uses is different from what we would expect. We would either follow tradition and start with the older, working down in age, or start with the youngest by observing their physical development. John uses neither. The unusual order is easily noticeable and does it for emphasis. The best reason seems to have us remember that all children grow toward adulthood. This is physically and spiritually true. 

No one is a baby all his life. What would a ten-year-old look like holding a bottle? We grow up physically and spiritually in Christ. Our goal is to be Christ-like no matter what stage we are in. 

The problem is that when we hit the teen years, we can easily get thrown off by the significant changes we face, physically and otherwise. God doesn’t want us to get off focus. We all are to become “fathers.” Teen years are temporary; if we persist, we shall be more like Christ.

These terms, children and young men, do not exclude sisters just because he speaks of fathers or young men. All believers are growing into maturity. As His children, spiritual growth is becoming more like our Father. It’s crucial to keep this goal before us. We will follow John’s order and discuss the young person after focusing on the young, the struggling Christians. 

But what does he say to the fathers? What do they need to hear at their stage of faith? John likewise addresses the fathers twice.

13) I am writing to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning. 

14) I have written to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning.

John could have written many things. He wrote the whole Gospel of John. He is the one who said much more could have been written about Jesus to fill all the books since then (John 21:25). But here he repeats himself, saying, “Because you know Him who has been from the beginning.” I checked the original Greek language. It is repeated word for word. 

Mature believers, the fathers, never stop growing because they live in light of the everlasting One. They might face all sorts of tragedies or experience persecution. Others might encounter famine or great problems, but the Christian perseveres. The key to endurance is simply knowing God. (The “Him” could refer to Jesus Christ but easier to think of our one God. See John 1:1-2.) They love the Lord. Their roots are in the faithful One, like the seaweed that attaches itself to a rock at the bottom of the ocean. 

They are like trees planted by the river. Even when everything around them dries up, the tree’s roots, however, go to the source, the river itself (Psalm 1). This reminds us of what John said in chapter 4, describing the well of living water springing up into life.

“But whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life.” (John 4:14).

We need to understand several things about the fathers, those that are spiritually mature.

1) They have yet to arrive.

The fathers need to keep growing. True, their relationship with God started a long time ago through Christ, but it continues. We have so much to learn! 

2) There is no such thing as retirement.

In our society, we think about retiring around 60-70 years old. But in Christian life, there is no retirement. Just because a husband is 60, he does not stop being a husband. Or, because a father has retired, it does not mean he is no longer a father. There is no time when we stop knowing God more. This will be true for eternity. Though perfect in our new bodies, the finite creature will still marvel at God’s spectacular person. We will always be the Lord’s child and can continue to grow as in any relationship.

3) Growth comes from knowing God more.

Although the new believer treasures God as their Father, we must realize that God is more than just our Father. The comfort and security that comes from knowing God are essential, but God reveals Himself in different ways at different seasons. I do not mean that God changes. God is the never-changing, indescribable One. Notice how He is described here twice: “Who is from the beginning?” This phrase sets us on a hundred different paths of exploring God’s excellence. 

This reminds me of how God described Himself in His Name, “Yahweh.” The Jewish people so revered this Name that they never said it. Even today, English speakers might leave a blank in the vowels of God’s Name, as someone recently wrote to me. They put different vowels (sounds) to the consonants and created another word – Jehovah. God, in Exodus 3:14, said, “I am who I am.” This is what we find all through the Old Testament. As people better understand God, they use different descriptions of God. God our Redeemer, our Healer, our Protector, etc. Each name articulates unique traits of God. Each name represents a particular experience when man saw God’s glory in a new way. God has not changed, as some modern theologians are suggesting, but we are more profoundly knowing the eternal unchanging One.

Are there any circumstances where God has revealed Himself to you as excellent? Did some unique characteristics of God shine through at that particular time? 

In the Old Testament, we read about different people who met up with God. Abraham learned of God through a difficult trial. This might not be typical of the trials we find in everyday life, but it is usual in the way God brings us through many surprising events that we never expected to find ourselves in. 

“¹¹ But the angel of the LORD called to him from heaven, and said, “Abraham, Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” ¹² And he said, “Do not stretch out your hand against the lad, and do nothing to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me.” ¹³ Then Abraham raised his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him a ram caught in the thicket by his horns; and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the place of his son. ¹⁴ And Abraham called the name of that place The LORD Will Provide, as it is said to this day, “In the mount of the LORD it will be provided”” (Genesis 22:12-14). 

God asked Abraham to offer up his only son, Isaac. This seemed strange because Isaac was the very means by God fulfilled His promise to Abraham. Ultimately, Abraham obeyed and gained an excellent reward for trusting God. In this case, God revealed Himself as God the Provider (Jehovah Jireh is the Hebrew name used, “The LORD will provide”.

We cannot retire or sit back as fathers. We need to keep growing by carefully following Jesus. The path will typically bring us to places we don’t want to go, or one which looks impossible. But if we put our faith in the Lord, God will give us another glimpse of His glorious person. We can see this described in Romans 4:18-21.

“In hope against hope he believed, in order that he might become a father of many nations, according to that which had been spoken, “SO SHALL YOUR DESCENDANTS BE.” And without becoming weak in faith he contemplated his own body, now as good as dead since he was about a hundred years old, and the deadness of Sarah’s womb; yet, with respect to the promise of God, he did not waver in unbelief, but grew strong in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully assured that what He had promised, He was able also to perform” (Romans 4:18-21).

Younger Christians might think that fathers, the highly respected believers, do not face temptations, but this is not true. They only have mastered the Biblical mindset that subdues their dark power. God, however, keeps mature believers on edge by introducing them to circumstances that reveal His other unique attributes. We must believe and trust God during those difficult times,  requiring much new faith and growth.

My New Ministry Calling

I’ll never forget when God called me from actively pastoring. I loved the ministry. I knew, however, that God directed me to leave the pastorate. I thought He was leading us, my wife and family too, to another church but suddenly took that option away. We were stranded. 

I remember seeing our many financial needs, at that time with seven children. The ministries I so loved were taken away. I cried out to God to provide on that early Saturday morning, and God spoke to me, giving me the vision of what is now BFF. The steps have not been easy. But we, I must include my wife here, have seen the glorious Lord reveal Himself in marvelous ways. God has enabled me to create many helpful training materials. He has been faithful in helping me do the impossible (from my point of view). This new faith ministry required us to trust Him with no certain financial support. This twenty-plus year experience has led to many experiences to witness God’s faithfulness.

The term fathers is also connected to reproduction. Men become fathers when they procreate new children. John alludes to sharing the Gospel and caring for new believers as they come into God’s family. This is the reason that we must emphasize both evangelism and discipleship. 

A mature believer keeps these goals before them. Fathers are mature Christians who bear many responsibilities and face life’s difficulties, using their faith and devotion to God’s Word to lead and protect God’s people. They are forced to ask all the hard questions of life and ministry. Ultimately, they discover that only God brings adequate grace; they trust God to fulfill His sovereign will. Their diverse experiences lead them to confront many inexplicable things, forcing them to ask a different set of questions. God is sufficient for these new problems as well as the old.

Satan uses these difficult times to bring doubt into the hearts of the fathers. Fathers do not have impenetrable armor, but they can ward off all the attacks of the evil one if they appropriately handle God’s Word. Satan will poke at God’s people until he finds a hole in their understanding of God and gives him a series of doubts to question God. God wants you to grow through these same circumstances. Growth is determined by how well you know God, not by what things you have been doing. It would be unhealthy and even wrong to think that what we do with our lives does not matter in our relationship with God. John emphasizes the experienced Christians’ most challenging area - their acquaintance with God. 

If you wrongly understand God’s purposes, you will not depend upon His grace but become arrogant, bitter, or critical. Here are a few questions that Satan blatantly uses to cause doubt in God.

Questions & Answers

• Why all the sickness? 
• Why do God’s people face such hardships? Again?
• Do you blame or praise God for life’s troubles?

The mature Christian is mature, and not easily tricked, because he knows God. He has experienced God’s faithfulness;  these memories are stored in a series of experiences rather than theological proof texts. Note how John stresses this with the mysterious phrase, “You know Him who has been from the beginning.”

1) John repeats the identical words (13-14) (different from the other two groupings). The way to maturity and the mark of maturity are the same.

2) There are no specific terms to describe Him. It might refer to:

a) Majestic God. (Ps 50:21; 115:3-4, Mal 3:6, He 12:28-29; Gen 39:9; 50:19-20). Being before time, the Father is greater than all we could fathom. The father is better knowing the Father.

b) “From the beginning” might refer to Jesus Christ in His pre-incarnate eternal state (1 Jn 1:1; Col 1:16-18). If so, this would stress God’s mercy in sending His Son to live among us. The Eternal One lives in time in human flesh.  

John uses no term to designate Him, since He in His glory can not easily be known. God’s people, however, do know Him. Even the “little children” know Him, though as Father. Definitions and doctrines are limiting. Words can open or close our thoughts. God hates idol worshipers because they dreadfully misconstrue Him. 

We need to grow in our knowledge of Him as we expand our conception of God from the experiences He takes us through. Only may the scriptures form our boundaries, like friendly yet firm guards. Like in a friendship, we can develop our knowledge of Him. 

1) Personal acquaintances are personal.

2) Be intentional in meeting!

3) Your relationship with Him will grow over time.

4) Expect to grow in intimacy.

3) Deeper relationships are gained through more profound knowledge and experience (Eph. 1:18-19). It regularly entails trials and conflicts that deepen our faith. Faith, not sight, is vital.

• Example #1. His commands are God’s directive signs to a better and balanced life.
   
• Example #2. Hard times are always under God’s sovereign control. They give strength and faith.
   
• Example #3. Paul lost his eyesight. Pray and trust God even if you find yourself in prison like Paul (Phil 1:17-18).
   
• Example #4. David (Ps 23:4; Ps 31)

Application 

Knowing God is our eternal goal. As we know Him, we become more holy like Him. He’s faithful like a rock. This relationship develops until we see Him.

5.  Young Men (1 John 2:13-14) 

Emphasis by placement

The third grouping, the young believers, are growing into spiritual adulthood. They are no longer considered new believers (children) and are in the process of becoming spiritually mature. Let’s look at their struggle through John’s words.

13) I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. 

14) I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one. 

We might be surprised by John’s words. The young man, a young Christian (not a new believer), seems to be fighting for his life against the evil one. Fortunately, John positively states they have overcome the evil one.

Though it doesn’t feel like it and one is in the middle of some serious battles, the war is over. Satan has been defeated. Why is this truth so important? Because Satan aims to destroy our faith. In 1 John 5, John identifies our point of victory: our faith.

“For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world - our faith” (1 John 5:4).

John didn’t make a mistake. He reminds them that he has previously written about this issue. Believers face many intense temptations because the evil one is trying to cripple them. The war, however, is over. They only need to learn to trust God in life’s various situations to overcome the evil one and his oft-used temptations. 

Needs of Young Men 

The young’s unique challenges come from their inexperience. An unfamiliarity with God’s Word, instability of faith, and a surge of temptations worsen their situation. Satan is out to get them before they can be steady on their feet. Just consider how few Christians have grown to spiritual maturity. Many have not carefully fought the evil one but succumbed in one or more areas of their lives. Though they have the Word of God to guide, keep, protect, and comfort them. They need to meditate on and obey His Word. 

Young people have energy that the fathers don’t have. The elderly live at a slower pace, though more carefully and wisely. The Young Christians must use their energies strategically, however.

No wonder young Christians are weak and wilt before the world. They have not learned how to meditate on God’s Word. If we would spend one day each week meditating on God’s Word, the church would grow strong. We need to be like Joshua, who meditated day and night on God’s Word (Joshua 1). Only then will we have the strength to overcome Satan’s seductive temptations.

My brothers and sisters, we need to stop playing games. Our lives are not a game. Someone is out there trying to cripple our spiritual life. You cannot be strong without His Word. Just think what we have learned from His Word from these verses! Have you learned to feed yourself, or are you still being spoon-fed? Do you only drink milk because you haven’t trained yourself to eat the meat of God’s Word? 

What do I recommend for younger Christians? 

• The ins and outs of temptation 

Study how Daniel in Daniel 1 resisted temptation. He withstood pressure (1:1-7), determined to act according to conviction (1:8), and wisely lived out his life (1:8-13). God has designed the believer to be an overcomer. 

“No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13).

The art of scripture meditation 

Joshua 1:6-8 provides an excellent place to start studying biblical meditation. Psalm 1 is also great for depicting the life of the one who meditates on the Word of the Lord. Consider the unpleasant results of those who neglect to meditate.

Living by faith 

Remember to keep the larger goal ahead of you. You are carrying out God’s work and must live by Jesus’ commands. Don’t back away from following Jesus; He is faithful.

One of the big problems families have today is that they expect and allow their teens to live irresponsibly. They get money and can do what they want. They have not been trained to act responsibly for their time and labor. The same problem is with young Christians.

We need to start making significant lifestyle changes to combat the world. I was around 13 when I became a Christian. I had many fears and troubles, but I loved God’s Word. I went down to the beach to evangelize. In high school, I went door to door, talking to people about Christ. Yes, I played on the chess team during high school, but do you know I also went to school early to participate in a student-led prayer meeting? What limits you? We all have our unique places in this world to shine for Jesus.

If your father said he would buy you a new car for graduation, would you go and buy that fancy car you wanted? Or would you buy a second-hand car for several thousand dollars and use some money to feed the poor? 

My heart grieves because our young Christians are wearing diapers. The world gobbles up our young people because they have no clue about the battle that they are in. 

Summary

The child is unstable and needs security. The father has many questions and needs solutions. The spiritually young believers face many temptations, but they can overcome them if they are rightly focused.

Each believer is actively growing spiritually; it’s normal! We look sad when we fail to follow the Lord’s rules for healthy Christian living. Many Christians are held back because of how they wrongly handle temptations. This sadly becomes a default stage for many believers. Learn to overcome temptation as Jesus did (Eph 6:16f.). The focus isn’t on a spiritual experience but on knowing and believing the Word of God, which comes from the knowledge of God’s Word and Bible study.

Remember that God’s Word leads to victory no matter how difficult it is to fight temptation. Learn and lean on His words. Here are a few questions.

Is it possible to overcome temptation and avoid sin? 

The scriptures clearly state, “You have overcome the evil one” (13). We might be out of his power, but we still face the evil one. In the Greek, there is a play on words: νεανισκοι (young one) = νενικηκατε (overcomer). Many of you are here amidst two extremes:

a) Underestimate the Word: Defeated and Despairing. The key is to use your faith to overcome.

b) Overestimate your power: Victorious and pride. The key is to give Him glory for helping you succeed in your battles.

How do I cope with these constant fights with sin? I feel like giving up. 

Be strong in the Lord. We have to face the fact that Satan wants us to give up, but God wants to show His power in these fights. We feel bad because the evil one is tempting us with thoughts that lead to defeat. We need to allow the truth of God to live in us and act in faith on those truths.

Summary: 1 John 2:12-14

Victory is possible because He is the source of our victory: Our new birth, His Word, and His power. This is why we need to praise and worship God. The length of each stage of spiritual growth has yet to be set, but wherever we are in our spiritual journey, we can have confidence and look forward to a deepening relationship with Him. All Christians are on this journey to growing and getting to know Him better. 

• In Stage #1, our aim is for new Christians to understand and experience God’s love, which will help to build their trust in Him. We want them to be enthusiastic about their relationship with God and share it with others. Our focus is on fostering a relationship rather than enforcing strict rules. This relationship is founded on God’s amazing love, demonstrated by Jesus on the cross, and salvation comes only through faith in Christ.
• Stage #3 is situated before stage #2 because it represents the final goal for all believers. This is where we are meant to end up. The son will grow and become a father himself. He may go through various stages and difficulties, but upon reaching there, he will be fully prepared to take on the responsibility of reproducing life and caring for others. Fathers grow in their intimacy with God.
• In stage #2, the spiritually young believer focuses on learning how to practically apply the teachings of the Word of God in everyday life. We assist the disciples in recognizing areas that need improvement and guide them on overcoming these challenges by reflecting on God’s Word. By achieving victory in certain areas, individuals can gain confidence in God for all aspects of life, not only for themselves but also for others. This is how they develop into becoming spiritual leaders.

Study Questions for 1 John 2:12-14

For the Church

• What responsibility does the church have towards Christians to further their growth? See Matthew 28:19.
• How can the church practically help new Christians?
• What special instruction must be given in basic discipleship materials from these verses? 
• How should the church help the ‘young Christians’ battling temptations? (Remember these believers can be from any age group.)
• How can we encourage zealous Christians to grow even more?
• What specific challenges do the ‘young’ face in our society today?
• What should we do with those Christians who are not growing?
• What specific steps can a Christian take who sees his or her friend not growing? 

For the individual

• Which group are you in? From above, state what problems you mainly face.
• How are you dealing with your particular challenges?
• How have you found God’s Word to help you battle such challenges? Give an example.
• List one practical way to meditate on one truth relevant to your spiritual growth (passage to study, memorize, etc).
• What should you do if you don’t fit into one of these groups?

Other References to 1 John 2:12-14 Articles

1 John 2:12-14: Three Interpretational Schemes by Paul J. Bucknell ...

www.bffbible.org › view › 1john2_12-14-three-interpretational-schemes

 

Aug 10, 2024 ... I have written to you, children, because you know the Father. I have written to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the …

 

THE FLOW: Training in the Church - 1 John 2:12

Training in the Church identifies three areas Christians need special training to become effective servants of God. 1 John 2:12 shows the ...

 

John 2:12-25 Turning the Tables | Biblical Foundations for Freedom

John 2:12-25 shows the need to deepen one's faith in Jesus rather than trusting the failing religious structures and systems about us.

 

Book of 1 John Summary & Flow: 1 John 2:3-2:17 Questions Included

If we are talking about an actual meeting with God, there is no way we can leave unchanged. The first thing we do is to look for protection in Christ; the second ...

 

Book of 1 John Summary & Flow: 1 John 2:18-3:24 Questions Included

Notice the contrast: One loves and practices righteousness, while the other practices lawlessness. The Son of God appeared to eliminate sin, not legitimize it.