Written by the elder apostle John to combat early Gnosticism. Heretics claimed Jesus didn't have a physical body and sin didn't matter. John writes with grandfatherly tenderness ("little children") to give certainty: "That you may know that you have eternal life."
"I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life."1 JOHN
The theology rests on three pillars about God's nature.
1. God is Light (1:5):
If God is light, we cannot walk in darkness. John destroys hypocrisy. Proof of knowing God isn't feelings, but obedience. "If we say we have fellowship... while we walk in darkness, we lie."
2. God is Love (4:8):
Not sentimental love, but practical. "In this we know love, that he laid down his life for us." Proof of God's DNA in us is loving our brothers. "Anyone who does not love does not know God."
3. God is Life (5:11):
Eternal life isn't just for after death; it is Someone you have now. "Whoever has the Son has life." Christianity is a present possession.
Where does 1 John meet you?
1. Doubting Salvation:
Afraid of hell? 1 John is the antidote. Look at your direction and confession, not perfection. "The blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin." Concern about sin is a sign of sonship.
2. When Loving is Hard:
"If anyone says, 'I love God,' and hates his brother, he is a liar." You cannot separate spirituality from relationships. You can't love the Father and hate His family.
3. The World vs. The Father:
"Do not love the world." The lust of the flesh, eyes, and pride of life are not from the Father. It helps us diagnose our attachments.