Written by Paul J Bucknell on September, 19, 2024

1 John 2:12-14 Three Stages of Spiritual Growth, Part 2

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

3. The Challenges of Spiritual Growth

Spiritual growth begins with gaining spiritual life. When both spiritual and physical lives are present, growth happens naturally. Once we understand the development process, as we discussed earlier, we can ask important questions. 

• Doesn’t God want all Christians to grow? 
• Why don’t all Christians develop at the same rate? 
• Why is it that many Christians fail to reach their full potential?

In the Parable of the Sower, Jesus explained how a person’s heart influences their openness to God’s Word. The more we accept God’s Word into our hearts, the more we grow. When we obey, our knowledge should shift from our minds to our hearts.

Satan seeks 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 leaves your mind. John emphasizes how crucial discipleship is to every Christian’s life. Mentors can have a very strong impact on believers.

Temptations are deliberate methods by which the evil one maliciously plants doubts about God and His Word. For example, I remember when my brother and I set up traps. We lived near the woods, used fine nylon string, and laid it across a path. Our goal was clear: to trip up those walking along the path. (In fact, only imaginary enemies crossed those paths.) The devil does this in our spiritual lives. Aren't we 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 listen to John’s words, we can go through those stages fairly safely. But if we are careless, doubtful, or arrogant, we may get hurt pretty badly in some cases. The key to overcoming temptation is understanding three things:

1. Our unique challenges
2. Our specific weaknesses
3. The particular advice the Lord provides

John reminds us of the knowledge that can enhance our spiritual journey and help us avoid his temptations. If you are seeking quick fixes, don’t. True solutions come through consistent, ongoing spiritual disciplines. What’s the point of being strong for one week and then stumbling in unconfessed sin the next? We must continually protect ourselves because our enemy, “the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). 

Let’s look at these three stages, the specific temptations they face, and the advice given to each.

4. The Children’s Advice (1 John 2:12-13) 

The primary purpose for the children, the new believers, is to establish their trust in their Lord. 

The children are addressed twice, once in 2:12 and again in 2:13. John refers to the Christians as ‘little children.’ The elderly apostle uses the term ‘children’ many times throughout 1 John, such as in 2:1, “My little children.” However, here he addresses all Christians. In 1 John 2:12-14, where he distinguishes between three levels or stages of growth, ‘children’ cannot refer to all believers, so they must represent very young or new Christians. I have previously elaborated on this viewpoint. 

Some people are older when they become new Christians. It may seem strange to describe them as children; however, we should not be bothered by this. Doesn't David call all of God’s people sheep in Psalm 23? John uses children to highlight our inclusion into God’s family. Once in God’s family, we have special privileges and responsibilities. Wise children can grow into maturity by paying attention to doing what God says in His Word.

Please understand. What he says about these new Christians applies to all Christians. We are not saying that those truths he mentions no longer apply when someone passes through a stage—not at all. They form a foundation, however. Christian growth involves learning or gaining confidence in specific truths at different stages. If these truths are not properly learned, those Christians will face a handicap. These truths are reflected 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 highlights as most important for new believers in Christ in these verses? First, we are forgiven. Second, forgiveness is only available through (Christ’s) name. (I combine these 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 look at 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 understood in two ways: 1) forgiveness of sins and 2) through Christ. Both are essential teachings for salvation. (These could be presented as separate points.) 

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

We must not assume that a person is a believer just because they live near Christians, in a ‘Christian’ country, or even enjoy associating with Christians. A person does not become a Christian by regularly attending church or making an offering. 

Salvation happens when God’s Spirit draws near to a person, making them aware of their sin. They feel uncomfortable, which is spiritual conviction. They might have never given serious thought to issues like lying or yelling at their wife, but now, something feels different. They realize it is very wrong. I used to think I was a pretty good person, especially when comparing myself to my brother, but the moment God exposed my sins, I was horrified by my dark and ugly ways, fully understanding 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 only through Jesus Christ. This is stated more clearly 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 through faith in the Lord Jesus. If our problem is our sin, then it is quite foolish to think we can ignore it, given that 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 sins deserve judgment. When we, in faith, believe that Christ has died for all our sins and that our sins are completely forgiven, then our sin is entirely wiped away. This truth is essential to salvation. If you think, regardless of what stage of faith you are in, that one sin has kept you from being a second-class Christian, then you are mistaken. We must return to the most basic truth of forgiveness. It applies to all kinds of sins. Sins can be things we have said or done, but they can also be found in what we think. Only in Christ’s Name can we receive complete forgiveness. 

Applications of these truths

1. Satan can make new Christians feel unworthy of salvation by causing them to struggle with guilt. This can lead the believer to give up or leave the church because they think they aren’t good enough. While we all need to ‘be better,’ we cannot earn salvation (Eph 2:8-9). Our sins are fully forgiven in Christ. This doesn't give us a free pass to sin but fills us with a powerful 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’s okay; we don’t deserve it. Receiving God’s undeserving love comes from His mercy and is meant to increase our love for Him rather than make us feel shunned by our Father in heaven. Satan, however, plants fear that God will abandon us if we sin, but John clearly 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 earn 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 truly understand His gracious forgiveness of our sins, we will forgive others as He has forgiven 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 develop a relationship with Him! He is our Father, not just someone who might adopt you someday. 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 and the other children, you aren’t part of my family. People say our children look very much alike. The same is true of God’s family. You must be born of God to become part of His family. When you are, you can call God your Father. That is His right. The One who made all the stars and the earth is now your Father, and you can cry out to Him for help and protection.

You don’t need to be important 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, new believers have unique needs.

Needs of Children: Understanding security

Let’s take a moment to consider a child’s needs. The child has many obvious needs. Unlike animals, infants require a lot of care (Romans 8:15, Abba Father; Gal 4:6). Without this care, they cannot survive. They have energy, life, and growth but also need security. Young children need all that care showered upon them! This well describes 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! 

A new or young believer in Christ needs a mentor to clarify their relationship with God through Christ and to confirm the specific way they can now connect with God as their Heavenly Father.

Strategy for Properly Caring for the Children (New believers)

New believers need to be well cared for by other believers. Babies rely on their parents and require care to learn from their parents’ knowledge and experience. The same applies to new believers, who must be carefully guided 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 arise in the new Christian’s life because God especially cares for each new believer. They are significantly protected from Satan’s schemes and receive an extra measure of grace, being hidden in Christ. Our Father watches over us all, but He keeps a special watchful eye on the children, as is fitting. 

Hints on being part of God’s Family

• Connect - build relationships with fellow believers, as smaller churches often facilitate closer bonds.
• Obey - follow God's Word, with guidance from elders and pastors who lead us in obedience.
• Invite - stay open and alert to how God wants you to share the Gospel with others. God desires a growing family.
• Valuable - every believer is of great worth. Never think of yourself as lost, but always belonging. Encourage others to keep their eyes on Jesus.

4. Confirming The Fathers (1 John 2:13-14)

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 begin with the youngest by observing their physical development. John uses neither. The unusual order is easily noticeable and serves to emphasize the point. The main reason appears to be to remind us that all children grow toward adulthood. This is true both physically and spiritually. 

No one stays a baby forever. What would a ten-year-old look like holding a bottle? We grow physically and spiritually in Christ. Our goal is to become more like Christ regardless of our current stage. The challenge is that during the teen years, we can easily be diverted by the significant changes we face, both physically and in other ways. God doesn’t want us to lose focus. We are all meant to become “fathers.” Teen years are temporary; if we persevere, we will become 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 toward maturity. As His children, spiritual growth involves becoming more like our Father. It’s important to keep this goal in mind. We will follow John’s instruction and discuss the young person after focusing on the young, the struggling Christians. 

But what does he tell the fathers? What do they need to hear at their stage of faith? John also 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 entire Gospel of John. He is the one who said that 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, and 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 significant problems, but the Christian perseveres. The key to endurance is simply knowing God. (The “Him” could refer to Jesus Christ, but thinking of our one God is easier. 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 reach 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, especially those who are spiritually mature.

1) They have yet to arrive.

Fathers need to keep growing. True, their relationship with God began long ago through Christ, but it continues. We have so much to learn! 

2) There is no such thing as retirement.

In our society, we often think about retiring around 60 to 70 years old. But in Christian life, there is no retirement. Just because a husband is 60, that doesn’t mean he stops being a husband. Or, because a father has retired, it doesn't mean he is no longer a father. There is no point at which 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 children and can continue to grow in any relationship.

3) Growth comes from knowing God more.

Although the new believer treasures God as their Father, we must understand that God is more than just our Father. The comfort and security from knowing God are essential, but God reveals Himself in different ways at different times. I do not mean that God changes. God is the unchanging, indescribable One. Notice how He is described here twice: “Who is from the beginning?” This phrase guides us on several paths to explore 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) into the consonants and created another word – Jehovah. God, in Exodus 3:14, said, “I am who I am.” This is what we see throughout the Old Testament. As people better understand God, they use different descriptions of God—God our Redeemer, our Healer, our Protector, etc. Each name highlights unique traits of God. Each name signifies a particular experience when man saw God’s glory in a new way. God has not changed, as some modern theologians suggest, but we now understand the eternal, unchanging One more deeply.

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 encountered God. Abraham learned about God through a difficult trial. This might not be typical of the trials we face daily, but it is common how God guides us through many surprising events we never expected to experience. 

“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 sacrifice his only son, Isaac. This seemed unusual because Isaac was the very way God fulfilled His promise to Abraham. In the end, Abraham obeyed and received a great reward for trusting God. In this case, God revealed Himself as Jehovah Jireh, meaning "The LORD will provide”. 

We cannot retire or become complacent as fathers. We need to continue growing by diligently following Jesus. The journey will often lead us to places we don’t want to go or that seem impossible. But if we trust in the Lord, He will give us another glimpse of His glorious character. This is 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, who are highly respected believers, do not face temptations, but this is not true. They have only mastered the Biblical mindset that subdues their darker impulses. God, however, keeps mature believers sharp by presenting them with circumstances that reveal His other unique attributes. We must believe and trust God during those challenging times, which require new faith and growth.

My New Ministry Calling

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

I recall considering our numerous financial needs, especially with seven children at the time. The ministries I deeply 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 been challenging. But we must include my wife here; we 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 without specific financial support. This twenty-plus year experience has led to many moments of witnessing God’s faithfulness.

The term “fathers” is also connected to reproduction. Men become fathers when they have children. John alludes to sharing the Gospel and caring for new believers as they enter God’s family. This is why we must focus on both evangelism and discipleship. 

A mature believer keeps these goals in mind. Fathers are mature Christians who bear many responsibilities and face life’s challenges, using their faith and devotion to God’s Word to lead and protect His people. They are compelled to ask difficult questions about life and ministry. Ultimately, they realize that only God provides sufficient grace; they trust God to fulfill His sovereign will. Their varied experiences lead them to confront many inexplicable things, prompting them to ask different questions. God is enough for both these new problems and the old.

Satan uses these challenging times to sow doubt in the hearts of fathers. Fathers do not have invincible armor, but they can defend against all of the evil one’s attacks if they handle God’s Word properly. Satan will test God’s people until he finds a weakness in their understanding of God, then plants doubts to make them question Him. God wants you to grow through these same circumstances. Growth depends on how well you know God, not on what you have been doing. It is unhealthy and even wrong to think that our actions don't impact our relationship with God. John emphasizes that experienced Christians face their biggest challenge—knowing God better. 

If you misunderstand God’s purposes, you will not rely on His grace but may become arrogant, bitter, or critical. Here are a few questions that Satan blatantly uses to sow 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 attentive and not easily tricked because he knows God. He has experienced God’s faithfulness; these memories are stored in a series of personal experiences rather than in theological proof texts. John emphasizes this with the mysterious phrase, “You know Him who has been from the beginning.”

1) John repeats the same words (13-14) (different from the other two groupings). The path to maturity and being mature 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” could refer to Jesus Christ in His pre-incarnate eternal state (1 Jn 1:1; Col 1:16-18). If so, this emphasizes God’s mercy in sending His Son to live among us. The Eternal One exists in time in human flesh.  

John does not use any term to refer to Him, since He in His glory cannot be easily known. However, God’s people do know Him. Even the “little children” know Him, though as Father. Definitions and doctrines are limiting. Words can expand or confine our thoughts. God hates idol worshipers because they terribly misunderstand Him. 

We need to grow in our knowledge of Him as we broaden our understanding of God through the experiences He guides us through. Only the scriptures should shape our boundaries, like friendly yet firm guards. Just as in a friendship, we can deepen our understanding of Him. 

1) Your acquaintance with God is personal. Keep it so.

2) Be intentional about meeting!

3) Your relationship with Him will grow over time.

4) Expect to grow in intimacy.

3) Deeper relationships are built through greater knowledge and experience (Eph 1:18-19). It often involves trials and conflicts that strengthen our faith. Faith, not sight, remains essential.

• Example #1. His commands are God’s guiding signs to a better and balanced life.
• Example #2. Hard times are always under God’s sovereign control. They strengthen faith and endurance.
• 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 learn about Him, we become more holy like Him. He’s faithful like a rock. This relationship grows until we see Him.

5.  Young Men (1 John 2:13-14) 

Emphasis by placement

The third group, the young believers, are maturing into spiritual adulthood. They are no longer seen as new believers (children) and are working toward spiritual maturity. Let’s explore 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 clearly states they have overcome the evil one. Although it doesn’t feel like it and someone is in the midst of 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 already written about this issue. Believers face many strong temptations because the evil one is trying to weaken them. However, the war is over. They only need to learn to trust God in different life situations to overcome the evil one and his often-used temptations. 

Needs of Young Men 

Young people face unique challenges due to their inexperience. A lack of familiarity with God’s Word, unstable faith, and an increase in temptations make their situation worse. Satan aims to destabilize them before they can become steady. Just look at how few Christians have matured spiritually. Many have not fought the evil one carefully and have fallen in one or more areas of their lives. Still, they have God's Word to guide, guard, and comfort them. They need to meditate on and obey His Word. 

Young people possess energy that fathers lack. The elderly live at a slower, more careful, and wiser pace. However, young Christians must use their energy wisely. No wonder they are weak and fade before the world; they haven't learned to meditate on God’s Word. If we dedicated just one day each week to meditating on God’s Word, the church would become stronger. We should be like Joshua, who meditated day and night on God’s Word (Joshua 1). Only then will we have the strength to resist Satan’s tempting seductions.

We need to stop playing games. Our lives are not a game. Someone out there is trying to weaken our spiritual life. You cannot be strong without His Word. Just consider what we have learned from His Word through 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), was determined to act according to conviction (1:8), and wisely managed his life (1:8-13). God 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 illustrating the life of someone who meditates on the Word of the Lord. Consider the negative results of those who neglect to meditate.

• Living by faith 

Remember to keep the larger goal in mind. You are doing God’s work and must live by Jesus’ commands. Don’t turn away from following Jesus; He is faithful. One major issue families face today is that they expect and allow their teens to live irresponsibly. They give them money and let them do whatever they want. They haven't been taught to be responsible with their time and effort. The same problem exists with young Christians.

We need to start making significant lifestyle changes to address the world's issues. I was about 13 when I became a Christian. I had many fears and troubles, but I loved God’s Word. I went 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 purchase that fancy car you wanted? Or would you choose a used car for a few thousand dollars and allocate some money to help the poor? My heart aches because our young Christians are compared to wearing diapers. The world devours our young people because they are unaware of the battle they face. 

Summary

The child is unstable and needs security. The father has many questions and seeks solutions. Spiritually young believers face various temptations, but they can overcome them if they stay focused. Each believer is actively growing spiritually; that’s normal! We look sad when we fail to follow the Lord’s rules for healthy Christian living. Many Christians are held back because they handle temptations wrongly. Sadly, this often 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 trusting the Word of God, which comes from studying the Bible and understanding God’s Word. Remember, God’s Word leads to victory, no matter how tough it is to resist temptation. Learn from and rely on His words. Here are a few questions.

1. 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 prideful. The key is to give Him glory for helping you succeed in your battles.

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

Be strong in the Lord. We must face the fact that Satan wants us to give up, but God wants to show His power in these battles. We feel troubled because the evil one tempts us with thoughts that lead to defeat. We need to let the truth of God dwell 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 determined, but no matter where we are in our spiritual journey, we can be confident and look forward to a deeper relationship with Him. All Christians are on this journey to grow and get to know Him better. 

• In Stage #1, we aim for new Christians to understand and experience God’s love, which helps build their trust in Him. We want them to be excited 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 based on God’s incredible love, demonstrated by Jesus on the cross, and salvation comes only through faith in Christ.
• Stage #3 lies before stage #2 because it represents the ultimate goal for all believers. This is where we are meant to arrive. The son will grow and become a father himself. He may face various stages and difficulties, but once he reaches this point, 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 daily life. We help disciples recognize areas needing improvement and guide them in overcoming these challenges by reflecting on God’s Word. By winning victories in certain areas, individuals can build confidence in God for all aspects of life, for themselves and others. This is how they grow into becoming spiritual leaders. 

Study Questions for 1 John 2:12-14

For the Church

• What responsibility does the church have towards Christians in promoting their growth? See Matthew 28:19.
• How can the church effectively support new Christians?
• What specific instructions should be included in basic discipleship materials from these verses? 
• How can the church support the ‘young Christians’ struggling with temptations? (Remember, these believers can be from any age group.)
• How can we motivate passionate Christians to grow even further?
• What specific challenges do the ‘young’ face in our society today?
• What actions should we take regarding those Christians who are not maturing?
• What specific steps can a Christian take when they see their friend not growing? 

For the individual

• Which group are you in? Based on the above, describe the main problems you face.
• How are you handling your specific challenges?
• How has God’s Word helped you overcome such challenges? Please share an example.
• List one practical way to meditate on a truth relevant to your spiritual growth, such as a passage to study or memorize.
• What steps should you take if you don’t belong to any 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.