John's Emphasis On Truth
Clarence DeLoach

We believe the Holy Spirit used words to communicate divine truth (I Corinthians 2:13). However, it appears that the Spirit chose words consistent with the style, vocabulary and personality of the various writers of scripture. Such accounts for the uniqueness of style as seen in John's writings. John used words like love, life, witness, testimony and TRUTH often.

 In 1, 2 and 3 John, note his emphasis upon TRUTH:

TRUTH, ACCORDING TO JOHN. . . IS SOMETHING TO BE KNOWN.

The theme of 1 John is our confidence in Christ. KNOW is the key word. Truth can be known and understood! No mystery! No speculation!

Sadly, many have espoused the view that no matter how intense one's desire, he can never really know what the truth is. Sad, because if one can not know truth, he can never be free, for truth makes us free (John 8:32).

TRUTH, ACCORDING TO JOHN. . . IS TO ABIDE IN US, AS WE ABIDE IN IT.

John praised and commended all those who have known the truth - because the truth abides in us (2 John 2). He goes on to say that when we do not abide in the doctrine (truth), we have not the approval of the Father and the Son (2 John 9).

Doctrinal truth is so important that those who do not bring it are not to be received (2 John 9-11).

TRUTH, ACCORDING TO JOHN. . . IS TO GOVERN OUR PRACTICE.

It is more than mental knowledge. It must be applied to life. John commended Gaius because he "Walked in the truth " (3 John 3). It was a joy for John to know that Christians were faithfully walking in truth. So truth not only is to be KNOWN, but PRACTICED!

TRUTH, ACCORDING TO JOHN. . . IS SOMETHING IN WHICH WE SHARE.

When we receive those who bring the truth, we become fellow workers for the truth (3 John 8). We become partners in truth, as we love it, teach it and practice it.

In these times when there is such a low commitment, we need to saturate our hearts with John's emphasis on TRUTH. ❦

Teen Devotional
The Youth Group is scheduled to meet tonight after the evening services for a devotional and fellowship in the annex. For more info see Matt Faneuf or Bob Bauer.

Men's Meeting
The men of the congregation are asked to meet at the front of the auditorium after the evening services tonight. Sorry ladies, but this is a Men Only meeting.....no listening :-)

Our hearts and prayers are with Margaret Duh and her family in the passing of her sister, Mary Ponaski, in Pennsylvania this past Tuesday. Keep sister Duh in your daily prayers.

Lectureship Books
There are still several 2002 Lectureship books available in the foyer. They are $16.00 each. This will be the last chance to get one before they are returned to the School of Preaching. See Bob Bauer for more info.

Add To Your Directory
Please add the following information to your membership directories:

HOWARD, Jr. & Marie. . . . . . . .***-****
  *** ******** ** - Auburndale, FL *****

Children's Class
Our youngsters meet here in the auditorium at 5:40 each Sunday afternoon for a session of story and song. This evenings scheduled teacher is Gaylon West.

Have you broken all of your new years resolutions by this time? Lets start all over again, lets resolve - not for new years - but just to do! "Seek every possible way to prove to my neighbor that I love him as much as I love myself." See Matthew 22:39.

UPCOMING AREA EVENTS:

        • Mar. 16, 2002 - Ladies' Day
        Orange Street church of Christ
        Speaker: Joyce Kidwell Stearsman