1 John by Scotty Smith

The short book of 1 John is packed with encouraging teaching and theological principles. This study, with its seven lessons, hits the highlights. It is not a verse by verse study but rather one that explores several paragraphs at a time. I like how each lesson identifies the big idea in the section, provides a bit of an overview, provides discussion questions on the biblical text, includes a short personal and inspirational article by Smith, more discussion questions with broader areas, then a closing prayer.

This study is designed for group use but could be used for individual study too. It provides a good overview of 1 John but does not cover any section in depth. Mention of Greek words is generally not done. One truth from each section is explored rather than investigating the specific contents of the entire passage. That makes this study a good one for new Christians or seasoned Christians who are not looking for an in depth biblical study. It is more relational in style and is not so much aimed at increasing theological knowledge. There is a good leader's guide included and each lesson has specific instructions so leading the discussion could be shared by members of the group.

This is a good study for a neighborhood outreach or for a group of friends.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

Scotty Smith, DMin, planted and pastored Christ community Church in Franklin, TN, for twenty-six years. He worked on the pastoral staff of West End community Church as teacher-in-residence and also served as adjunct faculty for Covenant Seminary, Westminster Theological Seminary (Philadelphia), Reformed Theological Seminary (Orlando), and Western Seminary (Portland, OR). He is the author of several books. He and his wife live in Franklin, TN.

New Growth Press, 128 pages.

I received a complimentary digital copy of the book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)