God is Light

1 John 1:5

• Reminder: we do not define God but relate to the God who is
• Reality: in Him there is no darkness at all
• Problem: we love the darkness (John 3:19)

If we walk in darkness 

1 John 1:6

• Description: those who say one thing and regularly do the opposite
• Diagnosis: we are liars and do not practice the truth

If we walk in the light

1 John 1:7

• Invited to live in the presence of the Lord with the people of the Lord
• Does not require perfection but does require commitment

If we say we have no sin

1 John 1:8

• Description: when we excuse ourselves from God's standard
• Diagnosis: we are self-deceived

If we confess our sin

1 John 1:9

• Invitation to live in freedom before God and others
• Problem occurs when we think this is amnesty instead of restoration

If we say we have not sinned

1 John 1:10

• Description: those who deny lingering sin
• Diagnosis: calling God a liar

Our only hope is the blood of Jesus that cleanses us from all sin.