Austin CFC - Josh McGuire - Seven Ifs
Sermon at Austin Christian Fellowship Church by Josh McGuire on March 22, 2020.
Summary
The sermon explores seven conditional 'if' statements found in John 1, arguing that these conditions reveal necessary components for true Christian fellowship. The speaker emphasizes that genuine connection with God and others requires actively walking in the light—being honest about sin rather than denying it. This process of self-examination leads to cleansing from sin.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
If we say we have fellowship and walk in darknessJohn starts by addressing the delusion that someone can claim to walk with God while continuing to live in darkness, pointing out that this makes a person a liar.1 John 1:6
If we walk in the lightWalking in the light according to our conscience brings genuine fellowship with one another and results in the blood of Jesus cleansing us from all sin.
If we say that we have no sinTo claim we have no sin is self-deception, as true believers like Paul instead acknowledge the deep reality of sin within their own flesh.
If we confess our sinsWhen God shines His light and we confess the specific sins He reveals, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us and cleanse us completely.1 John 1:9
If we say that we have not sinnedOur natural fleshly reaction, much like Adam and Eve in the garden, is to deny wrongdoing and blame others, which effectively makes God out to be a liar.1 John 1:10
If anyone sinsThough the goal is not to sin, when we do fail, we have the ultimate defense attorney in Jesus Christ the righteous, who not only represents us but took our punishment.1 John 2:1
If we keep his commandmentsWe know that we have truly come to know God when we treasure, guard, and keep His commands close to our hearts like precious keepsakes.1 John 2:3
