A. Reasons for Studying 1 John
1. The Purposes of the Book
– Address false teachings: 1 John 1:6, 1 John 4:1-2, 1 John 1:1-2
– Provide full enjoyment and assurance of one’s salvation: 1 John 1:4, 1 John 5:13
– Teach the foundations of the Christian life: 1 John 5:20
2. The foundations for growth in and walking with Christ
– Fellowship with God and other Christians: 1 John 1:3
– Joy in the Christian life: 1 John 1:4
– Character of God: 1 John 1:5, 1 John 4:8
– Offices of Christ
High Priest
Ruling King
Teaching Prophet
– Separation from the world: 1 John 2:15
– Holy living: 1 John 2:15
– Love for other Christians: 1 John 3:7-9
B. Background and Comparison
1. Author: The Apostle John
2. Place and time the Book was written
3. Comparison with John’s Gospel
– Love: John 13:34-35, John 17:23, 1 John 3:1, 1 John 4:7-8
– Fellowship: John 1:1-2, John 1:12, 1 John 1:3
– Joy: John 15:11, 1 John 1:4