The New Wind Error (2:7-11)

Early Errors
A Study of 1st John

The “New Wind” Error

Definition:
This is the belief that we’re always in need of some new and improved teaching (Gnostic “Christians” believed they had a special relationship to God from which they gleaned new and improved teachings).

1. What “command” is John referring to?
The Command of Christ, namely, love

2. In what sense is it an “old” command?
It's from the very beginning of Jesus' ministry, but it's also from the "Old" Testament

3. What are the pros and cons of old and new?
Old is viewed as faithful, proven BUT musty and worn-out
New is viewed as fresh, vibrant BUT unproven, unreliable

4. In what sense is it a “new” command?
It's new in that is demonstrated each day in the life of the church
Thus, John is saying that love proven & trustworthy AND fresh/vibrant
It's the best of old & new without the worst of either

5. In what way is darkness passing away?
The world was in Darkness prior to Christ
The incarnation was like the Dawn, light began to spread
We are currently in the stage of Development
We are awaiting the coming Day of the Lord

6. How do we know if we’re part of the light?
When our claims of love for God and people are matched with actions toward them
Just like James declares that faith without works is dead, so too is love without works