1 John 2:12-17: Encouragement & Warning

For more context before you begin studying, read this introduction to the book of 1 John.

Pilgrim's Progress is the classic tale of Christian's escape from the City of Destruction to the Heavenly City. It is true to experience because all of us can identify with his encounters along the way. In the Valley of Humiliation he enters into combat with Apollyon, his fiercest foe. At the Hill of Difficulty he meets Adam-the-First and his three daughters: the Lust-of-the-Flesh, the Lust-of-the-Eyes and the Pride-of-Life. In the town of Folly he narrowly escapes its greatest attraction, Vanity Fair. These encounters are John Bunyan's well-known descriptions of the threefold arena of all Christian conflict-the world, the flesh and the devil. They are the same three foes that appear here in 1 John.

Warming Up to God

How far did you progress as a Christian before you became aware of these three foes? Explain.

Read 1 John 2:12-17

Discovering the Word

• Who is represented by the three groups being addressed (vv. 12-14).
• What is the source of our victory over the evil one (vv. 13-14)?
• Why can there be no middle ground between our love for God and love for the world (vv. 15-17)?
• What are the reasons we are to resist such temptations (vv. 15-17)?
• How does the realization that the world is passing away (v. 17) lessen its appeal in your life?

Applying the Word

• How does this passage help us gain a better understanding of our spiritual battle?
• On a daily basis, how can that truth help us overcome the tactics and schemes of the evil one?

Responding in Prayer

Praise God for giving you the strength you need to overcome the evil one.