First Epistle of John

The First Epistle of John, is the first epistle of the apostle John. The First Epistle of John is one of the "general" or "catholic" epistles.

Authorship
The standard argument for the Johannine authorship is based on internal evidence such as the use of Old Testament, his knowledge on Jewish traditions and thought and precise details of time and space in relation to incidents gospel. Additionally, this view is based on the testimony of the ancient Church. It can be said that this letter was used by Papias, quoted by Polycarp and probably Justion Martyr. Some, however, raise the question as John who wrote the Gospel and Epistles was John, son of Zebedee or John the elder.

Structure
a. Prologue (1:1-4)

b. Conditions and conduct of communion (01:5-2:29)


 * i. Conditions of communion (1:5-10)


 * ii. The character of our conduct (2:1-11)


 * iii.The commandment to our behavior: separation (2:12-17)


 * iv. The creed of our conduct: claim against false teachers (2:18-27)

c. Warnings and promises to the Sons of God (2:28-3:24)

d. Care of communion (4:1-21)


 * i. The false spirits and the Spirit of God (4:1-6)


 * ii. Cautions concerning a loving spirit: a false profession (4:7-21)

e. True love for God's people (5:1-5)

f. The testimony (5:6-12)

g. Epilogue (5:15-21)

Commentary
This epistle is a discourse on the principles of Christianity, in doctrine and practice. One of his goals seems to be to refute and guard believers against erroneous and profane dogmas.

Ver também

 * First Epistle of John at Conservapedia