The Scriptures give us evaluative tests so we can examine our own lives for evidence that God has fulfilled his promises to us. These tests are not "things we do"; they are things he has done in us that we can see.
1 The repentance test
What does it mean for a person to repent? (Acts 3:19)
The essence of repentance is a change of mind and heart—it literally means "to change one's mind about" or, in another phrase, "to do an about face." Ongoing conviction of sin and the desire to change indicates the Holy Spirit's work in you and is evidence of his possession of you. A saved person continues to be broken about sin; an unbeliever doesn't care or rationalizes. A saved person wants cleansing and forgiveness; an unsaved person doesn't consider guilt much of a problem. The question to answer is, "Have you turned from sin (disobedience) to God (obedience)?" Don't ask: "Have you been obedient at all times?", for nobody has! Rather find out, "Are you grieved by your disobedience—is it something you want to be free from?"
2 The presence test
What does the Holy Spirit do for a believer? (Romans 8:15-16)
This is a subjective test, but one that is thoroughly biblical. The Holy Spirit tells us that we are his children. We feel his presence and have a peace or a calm about our spiritual condition. There's a quiet sort of confidence that we are his (not to be confused with the presumption of someone who hasn't yet seen the seriousness of his own sin). We feel we belong, even if we know we sometimes disappoint him. For further study: 2 Corinthians 13:5; John 1:12; and Revelation 3:20.
3 The evidence test
What will be true of someone who has an authentic relationship with Christ? (1 John 2:3-6)
That person's life will be different. He or she will be living more like Christ. This is not saying true Christians never sin (see 1 John 1:8). But it is saying true believers live differently and have a verifiable behavior change—not just warm feelings. But this change takes place gradually, over time. There are degrees of spiritual maturity, so do not be discouraged if you don't feel "complete." But to experience no change is a warning sign that something is wrong spiritually.
If you have time, ask: What art soma of the old things that have gone and some of the new things that have come for a true Christian? (2 Corinthians 5:17) Some answers may include: new values and goals, character changes, new thought patterns, love for people, concern for what God thinks and feels, sacrificial living for others, a desire to break patterns of sin. Your group members may have heard at one time, "If you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?" If you have time, also look at Galatians 5:22-26. Read and ask: What attitudes and behavior characterize a true believer? Fruit of the spirit, harmony with God and others.
Conclusion
Read 1 John 5:11-13. What does the phrase "so that you may know" mean for us?
This could be a very significant meeting for some of your members. Be sensitive to those who may want to talk immediately following the meeting. Take the initiative to help everyone in your group settle once and for all their spiritual standing before God.
BOTTOM LINE
God wants you to be secure about your relationship with him.
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