1 John is a letter to a community of faith. Much of the letter is written to combat heresy regarding the identity of Jesus. The conflict over this heresy caused part of the congregation to split from the rest. John writes to ground the community in the true picture of not only Jesus’ identity, but the identity of the children of God in light of who Jesus is.

The purpose statement of for 1 John can be found in 1 John 5:13. We can deduce from this verse that the author is writing to believers and that his purpose is to assure them that they do indeed possess eternal life. Although this letter is written in response to a specific situation (the false teachers who had withdrawn from fellowship), it has a relevant message for the church at large.

While this letter is written to combat theological opponents, the themes of walking in light and confessing Jesus as Christ are repeated throughout all of it. In John’s attempts to assure the believers of their eternal life (5:13), he also repeatedly emphasizes two basic components of that assurance: obedience to God and the love of fellow Christians. (Layman’s Bible Commentary: Volume 12)

As we read 1 John this week may we be reassured of our eternal salvation in Jesus Christ! May we also be reminded of the importance of obedience to God and loving fellow Christians the way the God loves us!

Devotional provided by:

Adam Stetzel - Regional Director of Donor and Board Advancement - Great Lakes