The letter of John is a letter written by an elder statesman in the Church, (probably the apostle John) encouraging his flock in the face of many difficulties to hold on to things of first importance. The things John teaches have become his habit and practice through long usage. They are habits and disciplines that are transformational if we can acquire them. They form a secret history with practical outworkings.

15th Oct. God habits: Generosity

Generosity is wonderful attractive quality. Are we known for it? In the sermon on the mount Jesus talks about things done in secret for the Father’s pleasure, including giving to the needy. The love of God and the love of our neighbour are so strongly linked that John, the apostle of love speaks about giving as a sign of loving God, and a response to the self-offering of Christ.

John sees love as a verb as well as a noun, something that acts (vv 16-20). As we care for those in need we act out the ‘family likeness’ of being God’s children. Generosity is a habit of the kingdom. If our gut reaction is to give, it also demonstrates to us, as well as to the world, that we belong to God. I John 3:10-23. Download discussion notes.