February 6, 2022
Pastor Ricky Smith

Sermon Notes

I. Don’t Worry Be Happy

1 John 4:17a
By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment,

Our confidence will grow as we walk with the Father

II. More, More About Jesus

1 John 4:17b
because as he is so also are we in this world.

Express the love of Jesus now so that others can experience His love later

III. No Room For Fear

1 John 4:18
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.

Christ’s love is perfected in us as we love others and reject the voice of fear

Next Steps

• I confess Jesus as my King and repent of my sin.
• I choose to reject fear and walk in love this week.
• I commit to approach the throne boldly in regular, confident prayer.

Deep Dive

1. Are you generally driven by fear or boldness when you pray? Why does this matter?
2. Read Romans 5:1-5 and discuss how the Gospel gives hope even in suffering.
3. As we mature in our faith, how must love be perfected in the way we look and love like Jesus?

Springboard

1. Think back to a moment when you felt incredibly loved. What did someone do for you? What did it cost them for you to feel loved?
2. What is the difference between saying “God is loving” and “God is love?” Does it really matter which you say? Why or why not.
3. According to 1 John 4:19, what was the timing of God’s love toward you? Why do you think that timing matters?