2026 1 John Lesson 2

LIVING IN THE LIGHT THROUGH LOVE

1 John 2:1-14

Key Verse: 2:10

1. What purpose does John give for writing this passage (1a)? What does it mean that Jesus is our “advocate with the Father” (1b)? What does “atoning sacrifice” mean in this context (2)?
2. How does the contrast in this passage reveal the difference between truly knowing God and merely claiming to know Him (3-4)? What does it mean that “the love of God is truly made complete” in someone who keeps His word (5)? What does it practically mean to “live as Jesus did” (6)?
3. What is the “old command” the readers have heard (7, 3:11; Lev 19:18)? What is the new command John is referring to (8a; John 13:34)? What does it mean that the new command is “true in him and in you” (8b)?
4. What contrast does John draw between those in the light and those in the darkness (9-11)? Why does John connect loving one’s brothers and sisters with being in the light?
5. Who are “children,” “fathers,” and “young men” (12-14)? What reasons does John give for writing to each group? How can our faith community grow in love for our brothers and sisters?