First John # 2

Church tradition credits the Apostle John with penning the three Epistles of John. The author's name is not stated in any of the Epistles but the author does address himself as "the elder" in both Second and Third John (verse 1). In this context scholars believe this would have been a title given to an Apostle. Assuming so, John is the logical fit. The writing style and vocabulary of the three Epistles is similar to that of the Fourth Gospel and the dating of the Epistles is near the end of the first century. Historically we know that John would have been alive at that time.

the key word for the Epistle of First John is "know." It is found in the key verse (First John 5:13) and in numerous other verses as well. John also used "know" as a key word in the Fourth Gospel. He wants his readers to know there is nothing more important in life than to know the life and teachings of Jesus. By studying and emulating the life and teachings of Christ the Believer will know right doctrine and behavior.

There are two important phrases found in the Gospel and Epistles that bear John's name: "God is light" and "God is love." Light refers to doctrine and Love speaks of behavior. For those of us who want to please God our focus must be on Jesus Christ. He is the full manifestation of God in flesh and His example is the embodiment of the doctrine and behavior of God Himself.

As a follower of Jesus Christ I encourage you to be a student of the Gospels and the Epistles of John. Read and study the words in red because they are the articles of God. Note the behavior of Jesus for it is a true reflection of the heart of God which we are to emulate for His glory.

"He who loves his brother abides in the light" (I John 2:10)

Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian