Encouraged by the Evidence: Preaching the Gospel Motivation Strategy found in First John

Abstract

What motivates believers? The gospel, of course—the good news about the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. But when preachers use the same stock gospel phrases week after week in the sanctification-focused segments of their sermons, they do a disservice to God’s people and God’s Word. There is great variety in the way Scripture provides gospel motivation; variety that preachers ought to strive to reflect. One example of an alternative gospel motivation strategy is found in John’s first epistle. This thesis explores the way John motivates believers by identifying the evidences of their faith.