1 John 2:12-14; 1 John 2:19

1 John 2:12-14

12 I remind you, my dear children: Your sins are forgiven in Jesus' name.

13 You veterans were in on the ground floor, and know the One who started all this; you newcomers have won a big victory over the Evil One.

14 You veterans know the One who started it all; and you newcomers - such vitality and strength! God's word is so steady in you. Your fellowship with God enables you to gain a victory over the Evil One.

1 John 2:19

19 They left us, but they were never really with us. If they had been, they would have stuck it out with us, loyal to the end. In leaving, they showed their true colors, showed they never did belong.