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Living as Jesus Did: A Study of 1 John 2:6

This Bible study explores the profound call to live a life that mirrors the example of Jesus Christ, as admonished in 1 John 2:6. We will delve into what it means to truly 'live in Him' and how to 'live as Jesus did,' understanding the divine nature of the One we follow and the power available to us for this transformative journey.

1. The Foundation of Our Walk: Living 'In Him'

1.1 Understanding 'Him' - Jesus as the Manifestation of God

Verses: John 1:1, 14; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16
  • Jesus is the visible manifestation of the one invisible God.
  • To live 'in Him' is to live in the very presence and nature of the Almighty.
  • He is the fullness of God dwelling bodily, not merely a separate entity.

1.2 The New Birth Experience - Entering into 'Him'

Verses: Acts 2:38; John 3:5; Romans 6:3-4
  • Our entry into Christ begins with repentance and water baptism in His name.
  • This baptism is a burial with Him and a resurrection to new life.
  • Receiving His Spirit is the seal of our union with Him.

1.3 Abiding in His Presence - Continuous Connection

Verses: John 15:4-5; 1 John 3:24
  • Living 'in Him' means maintaining a constant spiritual connection.
  • Apart from Him, we can do nothing of lasting spiritual value.
  • His Spirit within us enables this continuous abiding.

2. The Pattern for Our Walk: Living 'As Jesus Did'

2.1 Obedience to God's Word - His Example

Verses: John 14:15; Philippians 2:8; Hebrews 5:8
  • Jesus perfectly obeyed the Father's will, which was His own divine will.
  • Our love for Him is demonstrated through our obedience to His commands.
  • He set the standard for living a life fully submitted to God.

2.2 A Life of Holiness and Purity - Reflecting His Nature

Verses: 1 Peter 1:15-16; Hebrews 4:15; 1 John 3:3
  • Jesus was without sin, offering us a perfect example of purity.
  • As He is holy, we are called to be holy in all our conduct.
  • This pursuit of holiness is a natural outflow of living in Him.

2.3 Love for God and Neighbor - His Greatest Command

Verses: John 13:34-35; Matthew 22:37-39; 1 John 4:7-8
  • Jesus demonstrated ultimate love through His sacrifice.
  • Our love for others is a direct reflection of His love in us.
  • This love is the identifying mark of His true followers.

2.4 Humility and Servanthood - His Posture

Verses: Philippians 2:5-7; Mark 10:45; John 13:14-15
  • Though God manifest in flesh, Jesus took on the form of a servant.
  • He taught us to serve others rather than seeking to be served.
  • Humility is essential for truly walking as He walked.

3. The Power for Our Walk: The Indwelling Spirit

3.1 The Spirit as the Very Spirit of God - His Presence Within

Verses: 2 Corinthians 3:17; Romans 8:9-10; John 14:16-18
  • The Holy Spirit is not a separate entity, but the Spirit of the one God, Jesus Christ.
  • When we receive the Spirit, we receive Christ Himself dwelling within us.
  • This indwelling presence empowers us to live according to His will.

3.2 Empowerment for Righteous Living - Overcoming Sin

Verses: Romans 8:13; Galatians 5:16; Ephesians 3:16
  • The Spirit provides the strength to overcome sinful desires and habits.
  • Walking in the Spirit enables us to produce the fruit of righteousness.
  • His power transforms our nature, aligning it with His.

3.3 Guidance and Transformation - Conforming to His Image

Verses: Romans 8:14; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Galatians 5:22-23
  • The Spirit guides us into all truth and leads us in His ways.
  • He progressively transforms us into the likeness of Christ.
  • Through the Spirit, His character is developed within us.

4. The Purpose of Our Walk: Bearing Witness

4.1 Reflecting His Character - A Living Testimony

Verses: Matthew 5:16; 2 Corinthians 5:20; 1 Peter 2:9
  • Our transformed lives are a powerful testimony to His saving power.
  • We are His ambassadors, representing Him to the world.
  • Others should see Christ in our actions and attitudes.

4.2 Sharing the Good News - Proclaiming His Name

Verses: Mark 16:15; Acts 1:8; Romans 10:14-15
  • Living as Jesus did includes sharing the message of salvation.
  • We are called to be witnesses of His death, burial, and resurrection.
  • The Spirit empowers us to boldly proclaim His truth.

4.3 Glorifying God - The Ultimate Goal

Verses: 1 Corinthians 10:31; John 15:8; Philippians 1:20
  • Every aspect of our walk should bring glory to God.
  • Our fruitfulness and obedience honor His name.
  • Our lives are to be a living sacrifice, pleasing to Him.