I John 5

Review your summaries of the first four chapters before you read Chapter 5. As you begin on I John 5 try to get an overall view of the chapter in several rapid readings. Then as you read it slowly, meditate and pray through the chapter verse by verse. Use the suggested questions on page 21. As you meditate, list on pages 28 and 29 the problems and possible application verses.

Summarize the chapter by paragraphs averaging 5-10 words per verse (105-210 words for I John 5). Leave one line blank before each paragraph.

Read over each of your paragraph summaries in this chapter and make a brief title for each. For example, a title for paragraph 1 could be “Obedience proves love, and faith gives victory,” or “God requires obedience and faith.” Write in your titles at the beginning of each paragraph.

List questions or problems that come up as you examine Chapter 5. When your study is completed, you may want to come back and search for answers. Use the methods suggested on page 24.

Find three more cross references for important verses in Chapter 5. Look for a parallel truth, an example, or perhaps a contrast to the truth stated. Sometimes you may want to find more than one cross reference for certain verses.

Prayerfully go over the possible application verses above and choose the one which applies most to you now. Summarize your need, then meditate and pray about how you plan to put this new challenge into practice. Write a brief paragraph below (using “I,” “me” and “my”).

As a special project you may want to read over your applications from the previous chapters and check yourself on the progress you’ve made in applying them to your life. Pray and plan about putting them more into practice.