A young Briton spent years in a council flat creating forgeries so perfect that they ended up in museums and auction houses around the world, and the thing about fakes is that they cost a lot and are worth very little. This story opens the question of the authenticity of what we hold most precious: how can I be sure that my faith and my relationship with God are not a copy? The apostle John (1 John 2) offers a simple test: whoever has truly known Jesus obeys him, loves people the way he does, and does not love what is passing away. Listen and check whether your faith is the original.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- John writes that whoever claims to know Jesus but does not keep His commands is a liar (1 John 2:3-6). What were the false teachers claiming about their faith, and why does John push back so strongly?
- How do you understand the "new command" that John says is also an old one (1 John 2:7-11), and how did Jesus raise the bar with the words "as I have loved you"?
- The sermon gave examples of people who know a lot about Jesus, grew up in a Christian home, or experienced healing. Why does none of these on its own prove that faith is genuine, and what does confirm it?
- The story of a man whose face slowly took on the shape of the mask he wore illustrates becoming like Jesus. Where in your life do you already see this transformation, and where are you still waiting for it?
- John warns against the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life, all of which are centered on self. What fading thing do you find hard not to love, and how does it affect your love for God and others?
- The story of three-minute conversations at airport security shows that love is expressed in action. Who could you give a few minutes to this week to show them kindness, the way Jesus does?
