(Third part)
Memory verse (1Jn2: 12): “ I write to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for His name’s sake ”.
The Greek translation for this word little children in the above scripture is “teknion”, which means little children; in the new testament it is used as a term of kindly address by teachers to their disciples. John taught some fundamental characteristics of the spiritual children, i) they have to understand that their sins are forgiven, ii) they have come to a level of understanding that God is their Father. Spiritual babies need true discipleship program that will develop them spiritually. This is what Jesus taught the Jews that believed in him, that if they got committed to the word of God, they would be true disciples (Jn8: 31-32). . Little children are believers who are committed to hearing and reading God’s word. The early church new converts were committed to the apostles teaching. (Acts2: 42-46).
Little children have to be committed to the apostles’ teachings, to fellowship, to prayer and to Holy Communion. Another name for the little children should be disciples (Jn21: 4-5). As the spiritual little disciples get taught about the cross and the finished work of Jesus on the cross, they begin to know the truth and that truth sets them free. They can walk in freedom and peace knowing that their sins are forgiven and they are now the righteousness of God through Christ. The discipleship teachings open the disciple’s eyes to know that God is now their Heavenly Father (1Jn2: 14). This is what Jesus taught his disciples when he taught them how to pray (Matt6: 9). Disciples address God as their Father. A disciple enjoys a good relationship with God since when he knows that God is his Father. He begin to come closer to God instead of running away from God. He begin to discover how much God loves him. Church leaders and shepherds of God’s flock, God’s children need to know how much God loves them as their Father. They need to have the assurance of their forgiveness so they can walk in peace with God. Have a program for God’s little ones, take them into the word of God, provide warm fellowship for them. Am also advising every one of you children of God, you need a spiritually healthy church, you need a pastor and you have to be committed to fellowship (Heb10: 25).
Tomorrow’s subject: “ Spiritual young men ”
