Introduction to 1st John

Here's my introduction to the book of 1st John, and its course.

The letters of John were written by the Apostle John, as all the early church leaders generally attested to (See details in the intro to lesson #1). This was the same John who was called "the one whom Jesus loved," and who was the brother of James the son of Zebedee (See Mark 3:16-19; John 13:23; 21:20). He had a very close relationship to Jesus as a friend and disciple, and was part of Christ's inner circle of disciples; Peter, James, and John. He was the writer of the Gospel of John, these Letters of John (1st, 2nd, 3rd John), and the book of Revelation. Although his name is not mentioned in these Letters (as was Paul's style), the record of history and content clearly points to him, and it was very early accepted that he was indeed the author of them.

The date of writing for this letter and the others is generally put between A.D. 60-90, though some have tried to place a later date from AD 95-110. The generally accepted order for date of writing with John's works is; the Gospel of John, the Letters, and finally Revelation. Pinning down an exact date for John's letters is a bit harder than for other works in the New Testament. We simply have the above general time frame. The place of writing for his letters, on the other hand, is pretty well nailed down. The Gospel and Letters were written from Ephesus, while Revelation was written from the Island of Patmos in the Aegean sea, off the coast of Asia Minor (Modern day Turkey).

John primarily ministered to the Jewish community (See Galatians 2:9), but surely also labored for the Gentiles. His work was mostly centered in Asia Minor. And, it is believed that these Letters were first addressed and sent to the people of that region. In this letter, John encourages the believers to walk in the light as Christ Jesus is in the light! It also warns us to avoid the traps of the world, of sin, and of false teachers. We are called to live holy lives in reverent awe and love for the Living God! May you be blessed as you study through these letters!

Blessings,

Ben