Experiencing God’s love radically changes how we love.
Scripture: 1 John 2:3-6, 15-17; 4:19-21
Central Truth
Knowing Jesus changes us—for real. It’s impossible to truly know Him and continually disobey Him. This doesn’t mean we will live perfect lives after coming to know Him; rather, when we sin, the Holy Spirit convicts us and draws us back to the Lord.
Key Question
What is the difference in knowing God and knowing about God?
Keep in Mind
Many unbelieving students may know about God. Some of them may even be more knowledgeable about Scripture than believers. We want to drive home the truth that simply knowing facts about God isn’t enough to produce life change. We can’t earn salvation because of our knowledge about God; in fact, we can’t earn salvation at all. Instead, knowing God stems from having a relationship with Him—one in which we’ve surrendered our lives to Him and been saved by Him. Building a relationship with God means intimately knowing the Lord through His Word and prayer and seeking to live like Jesus.
APPLICATION
What are the “things in the world” (v. 15) that you’re tempted to love? How can you lay them down this week?
THE WIN
FOR THE STUDENT: Students may be tempted to seek out popularity and attention or to compromise their standards and commit sexual sin because they’re in an unhealthy relationship. Maybe they’re tempted to chase a temporary escape in drugs or alcohol, or they thrive on boasting about their successes. None of these things will last. Students can lay down these cheap worldly fulfillments and be filled with God instead.
FOR THE LEADER: Being knowledgable about God versus intimately knowing God is sometimes a major struggle for ministry leaders. You may spend time studying for lessons without ever considering how to apply what you’re learning. Being knowledgable can also lead to pride. Thankfully, God doesn’t choose us because we’re knowledgable, He chooses us because He loves us.
