1. Message: The Fellowship of Light Loves Each Other February 24, 2013

2. Seemingly Contradictory Statements 1)This is not a new command of love, it is an old command. 2)Actually, this is a new command.

3. Reasons This Is a New Command of Love 1.The incarnate Christ was the perfect manifestation of love. 2.The fellowship of believers in Christ will manifest this love to each other. 3.Jesus the true light has come and darkness is already passing.

4. Love & Hate Contrasted  Love: Loving each other in the way God desires for us to love each other – through him.  Hate: Not loving each other in the way God desires for us to love each other – apart from him.

5. False Claim: It is possible to be in fellowship with God who is light while not loving my fellow believers as God desires me to.

6. Truth Claims 1)Those in fellowship with God will love other believers as God desires them to love.  This kind of love comes from God.  This kind of love must be demonstrated.

7. Truth Claims 2) Those in fellowship with God do not cause others to stumble in loving others.  ‘and in him there is no cause for stumbling’

8. Truth Claims 3) Those who do not love each other in this way are: a)In Darkness – who they are in fellowship with. b)Walking in darkness – how they live. c)Without direction – lack of purpose. d)Blind to their darkness – their condition.

9. Assurances to the Fellowship Three Groups Addressed 1)Children – all believers, the fellowship. 2)Fathers – older, mature believers. 3)Young men – younger, less mature believers.

10. Assurances to the Fellowship 1)Your sins have been forgiven for Christ’s name sake. 2)You have ‘known’ the Father. 3)You have ‘known’ Jesus who is eternal. 4)You have overcome the evil one. 5)You are strong & God’s Word lives in you.

11. What About You?  Do you love others in the way God desires?  Are you claiming to be in fellowship with God while refusing to love?  Are you demonstrating love to others?  This love only comes from being in fellowship with God!