The Book of 1 John
Walk in the light, love one another, and know that you have eternal life.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to John, the apostle
- Date
- Probably c. AD 85–95
- Chapters
- 5
- Genre
- General Letters
Summary
1 John was written to strengthen believers who had been unsettled by false teachers. John declares that God is light and that those who walk with him confess their sins, knowing that he is faithful to forgive.
John returns again and again to love: "God is love," and those who know him will love one another. He gives tests of genuine faith — believing in Jesus, obeying God, and loving others — so that believers may know they have eternal life.
Outline
- Chapters 1–2 — Walking in the light
- Chapters 3–4 — Loving one another
- Chapter 5 — Assurance of eternal life
Key Themes
Key Verses
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
Start reading 1 JohnDear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.