John was known as "the disciple whom Jesus loved." Here in his first letter you can see that John also loved Jesus. The way he speaks of him at the beginning is reminiscent of the first chapter of the John's Gospel. John knew Jesus and not just the man, but Jesus the Word of Life, the Light of the World, the one who existed from the beginning, the one who is live itself.
Some people don't seem to be aware that there is a difference between light and darkness, between good and evil, but John knew. And his wonderful words about those living in the light -- "But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other and the blood of Jesus, His Son, cleanses us from all sin."
John knew the importance of confessing our sin. He knew that "if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness."
John was a man and, as a man, he knew we all sin, "but if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father. Wow, isn't that great? Jesus talks to the Father about us and advocates for us.
Apparently, some were claiming to be Christians, i.e., living in the light, but hated their Christian brother or sister. He speaks so clearly: "anyone who hates another brother or sister is still living and walking in darkness."
What a wonderful letter.
Tomorrow, we'll read II John and III John.
Until next time…
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