1 John 1:1-4; 2 John 1:1-13; 3 John 1:1-14
Introduction
• John an old man writing from Ephesus.
• The Pax Romana (Roman Peace).
• Gnosticism (Greek gnosis, which means “knowledge”) – taught that matter was inherently evil and spirit alone was good.
• Three errors:
a. Denied Christ’s true humanity.
b. Claimed special, secret knowledge.
c. Promoted antinomianism (moral behaviour didn’t matter).
The Threefold Structure of Truth in John’s Letters
1. Sound Christology: The Incarnation of the Eternal Word
2. Living in righteousness- The Inseparable Link Between Doctrine and Obedience
3. Sound Ecclesiology: The Marks of Authentic Christian Fellowship in the Church.
John’s Twofold Purpose
Stated clearly in 1 John 5:13: “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.”
Contemporary Relevance and Practical Applications
Application 1: Embrace the Full Humanity and Divinity of Christ
Application 2: Connect Doctrine with Obedience
Application 3: Cultivate Genuine Christian Community