Scripture Reading: 1 John 5:1–5

Introduction

A. We know of faith’s description as substance and evidence (Hebrews 11:1).

B. John describes it as the victory that overcomes the world (1 John 5:4).

Discussion

I. Israel was victorious when they acted by faith.

A. They conquered Jericho by faith (Hebrews 11:30).

B. By faith, they defeated the Midianites under the leadership of Gideon (Judges 6:7–10; Hebrews 11:32–34).

C. When they rebelled, however, they found that “they could no longer stand before their enemies” (Judges 2:10–15).

D. Without God on their side, they were nothing.

II. Jesus has been victorious over the world (John 16:33).

A. Jesus was victorious over “all that is in the world,” including every form of temptation (1 John 2:16; Matthew 4:1–11).

B. Jesus was victorious over all things because He was faithful in all things (Luke 2:51; Hebrews 4:15; John 7:16–17; Hebrews 5:7–9).

C. In reality this victory was already won from God’s viewpoint before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 3:9–11).

III. If we will be faithful, we can share this great victory.

A. We win the victory through faith (1 John 5:4).

B. There is not a force on earth that can take this victory from us (Romans 8:32–39).

C. If we lose our victory it will only be because we have chosen to forfeit it (Romans 11:17–23).

A. There are many rich blessings promised to those who are victorious (Revelation 2:7, 10, 11, 17, 26–27; 3:5, 21; 21:7–8).

B. Faithfulness to Jesus will always be rewarded with victory!