INTRODUCTION TO FIRST JOHN - ANTHONY JESTER (2)

Who Wrote this Book?

The internal evidence does not support the idea that John wrote this book. But by comparison to other book of John also shows that that John might be the one who wrote this book.

John 1:1 ESV

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

1 John 1:1–2 ESV

That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life— the life was made manifest, and we have seen it, and testify to it and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was made manifest to us—

Another commentator says ,“The prologue to John’s first epistle is poetic, much in the same way the prologue to John’s Gospel is poetic.” Osborne, Grant, Philip W. Comfort. 2007. Cornerstone Biblical Commentary, Vol 13: John and 1, 2, and 3 John. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.

Therefore the John wrote 1 John

To Whom Was it Written

John does not say it in the book. But through his continuous usages on some words, it is clear that he had believers in his mind when he was writing this book. These phrases can include, “we have fellowship with God.” and many more.

When Was it Written?

The letters of Paul can indicate the dates but not this book. But from other commentators, it seems it was written between A.D. 85-95. (Bob Utley)

Why Was it written?

The Book itself shows that the main emphasis was on the love believers have in Christ. And also the fellowship we has with God. I am saying this because of the continuous usages of these words.

Application for Us?

This is an encourage to all the believers that we should not lose hope for knowing that we have the fellowship with God. He is the one who we are in love with. This is not something to be taken for granted. God loves us, He is the love of our lives. God be praised amen.