NOTES ON THE FIRST EPISTLE OF JOHN

^[p. 304] NOTES ON THE FIRST EPISTLE OF JOHN

The leading subject of the First Epistle of John is the life of God manifested upon earth in the Person of the Son, and communicated to man by Him — this life being the basis of intercourse between man and God. The exposition of this blessed subject is accompanied by numerous unfoldings occupying a large place in this Epistle; still the fundamental subject is — “God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.”

The whole doctrine of the Epistle is set forth in chapter 1, and verses 1, 2 of chapter 2. These three consecutive truths are found there; namely, divine life communicated to man, and our introduction into communion with the Father and the Son, in virtue of that life (chapter 1: 1-4); the nature of the God with whom we are in communion (chapter 1: 5-10); and the means ordered by God for maintaining us in communion. Chapter 2: 1, 2.

In the portion contained between chapter 2: 3, and chapter 3: 23, John considers the experimental and practical proof of the reality of the life in us. From chapter 3: 24 to chapter 4: 21 he unfolds the extent of our privilege as recipients of life, and enjoying communion with God, the privilege of God dwelling in us, and of us in Him. Lastly, in chapter 5 he considers the subject in its connection with the testimony of God and faith.

Various elucidations and observations on the subject of antichrists and false teachers are scattered throughout the whole Epistle; warning against the Gnostics, who at that time were undermining the faith of the saints.