The Gospel of John: 1 John

Sem. Roger Ryan D. Alba, STB II

SS8: New Testament III: Johanine Literature, March 14, 2024

1 John presents a departure from typical epistolary conventions, lacking a formal opening
address. However, it does contain a semblance of closure in 5:21, though it doesn't conform to
the usual closing salutations. Instead, the writer directly addresses the readers as "little children,"
a term first introduced in 2:1 and recurrent throughout the text (see also 2:12; 3:7, 18). This
departure suggests that 1 John might have been intended for a specific circle of churches,
possibly accompanied by a covering letter akin to 2 John. This contextualizes the specific issues
addressed within the community rather than presenting it as a general tract.1
Despite its simple language and limited vocabulary, 1 John often exhibits ambiguity and
lack of clarity to modern readers.2 This ambiguity may stem from the author's use of insider
language, making it challenging for outsiders to grasp fully. This lack of clarity is evident from
the outset, such as the ambiguity surrounding the first word (ho).
In its Greek word order, the emphasis of the translation lies on the message's content and
its basis in the firsthand experience of the writer and colleagues, as elucidated in verse 2. Verse 1
focuses on the "word of life," while verse 2 expands on the theme of life, emphasizing that the
life was revealed. This revelation underscores the significance of the word of life, as it wasn't
merely heard but also seen and handled. Moreover, the life announced is eternal, as it was with
the Father, echoing themes from the Gospel Prologue (John 1:1-18).3
The parallels between 1:1-4 and the Prologue of the Fourth Gospel imply a connection,
with shared words and themes noted. However, there are notable differences in how these terms
are employed. While the Gospel emphasizes the divinity of Jesus, the Epistle focuses on the
foundational message, suggesting opposition to a more "progressive" stance.
Debates persist regarding the relationship between 1 John and the Gospel, with theories
ranging from direct dependence to independent use of common tradition from the Johannine
school.4Some scholars propose that 1 John was written during the Gospel's composition process,
with the fundamental shaping of the tradition possibly completed.5
The opening sentence of 1 John, spanning three and a half verses, centers on "the word of
life." Though less overt than in the Fourth Gospel, the use of "Word" in 1 John aligns with
Jewish Wisdom traditions, wherein the creative Word of God was linked to the Law. However,

1
John Painter, 1, 2, and 3 John. SP. (Collegeville: Liturgical Press, 2002.) 115.
2
Cf. Bart Ehrman, The New Testament: A Historical Introduction to the Early Christian Writings.
4th ed. (New York and Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2008), 146.
3
John Painter. 1, 2, and 3 John. SP. (Collegeville: Liturgical Press, 2002.) 116.
4
Raymond. The Gospel and the Epistles of John. (Collegeville: Liturgical Press, 1998) 233.
5
Ibid. 234.
distinctive Johannine interpretations identify Jesus with the Word, emphasizing his
communication through his words.6
The Prologue of 1 John introduces the unexpected assertion that "God is light," a
departure from the themes presented in the Gospel Prologue and John 3:19-21. While those
passages anticipate a conflict between light and darkness, 1 John 1:5 offers no immediate
explanation of these symbols. The specific significance of light and darkness becomes clearer in
1 John 2:9-11, where light symbolizes love for fellow believers and darkness signifies hatred
towards them. This suggests an inclusio on the theme of light between 1:5 and 2:9-11.7
Though not explicitly stated in 1:5, the assertion "God is light" shares semantic resonance
with another key statement in 1 John, "God is love" (1 John 4:8, 16). In this context, love and
hate are portrayed as incompatible as light and darkness. The Semitic understanding of love as
choosing and hate as rejecting adds depth to this understanding (John 3:19; 1 John 2:15-17). 8To
love darkness or the world is to align with their values, while God's love for the world offers the
potential for transformation rather than conformity to worldly values. The giving of God's Son
exemplifies this transformative love, enabling belief and salvation.
Reflection
Reflecting on the unconventional nature of 1 John and its profound theological insights,
we are invited to delve into the depths of its message and uncover the timeless truths it holds for
us today.
Firstly, the absence of a formal opening address in 1 John challenges us to reconsider our
preconceived notions of how divine messages are conveyed. Rather than adhering strictly to
conventional epistolary conventions, the author addresses us directly as "little children,"
emphasizing a familial bond and a sense of shared belonging within a specific community. This
departure from tradition reminds us that God's word transcends human constructs and speaks
directly to the hearts of believers, irrespective of formalities.
Furthermore, the simplicity of language in 1 John belies the complexity of its theological
content. Despite its seemingly straightforward prose, the text often veils deeper meanings
beneath its surface. This ambiguity mirrors the mystery of divine revelation, inviting us to
explore its depths with humility and reverence. The author's use of insider language reinforces
the idea of belonging to a community of faith, where shared understanding and interpretation are
cultivated over time.
Central to the message of 1 John is the concept of "the word of life," echoing the Gospel
Prologue's depiction of Jesus as the Word made flesh. This foundational truth forms the basis of
Christian belief, emphasizing the tangible manifestation of God's eternal life in the person of

6
John Painter, 1, 2, and 3 John. SP. (Collegeville: Liturgical Press, 2002.) 116.
7
Ibid. 329
8
Ibid.
Jesus Christ. The parallel between 1 John and the Gospel underscores the interconnectedness of
Johannine theology, weaving a cohesive narrative of divine revelation and redemption.
Moreover, the assertion that "God is light" in 1 John challenges us to reevaluate our
understanding of divine attributes. Light, often associated with truth, purity, and enlightenment,
becomes a metaphor for God's essential nature. This proclamation resonates with the declaration
that "God is love," emphasizing the inseparable connection between God's character and His
actions towards humanity. In this light (pun intended), love and hate are revealed as incompatible
forces, mirroring the contrast between light and darkness.
Ultimately, 1 John calls us to embrace the transformative power of God's love, which
illuminates our hearts and guides us on the path of salvation. Just as God's love for the world
extends the possibility of redemption to all, so too are we called to embody this love in our
relationships with one another. Through the giving of God's Son, we are invited into a journey of
belief and salvation, wherein the darkness of sin is dispelled by the radiant light of God's love.
In conclusion, the profound theological insights of 1 John challenge us to embrace the
unconventional, delve into the depths of divine truth, and embody the transformative power of
God's love in our lives. As we journey through its pages, may we be illumined by the light of
Christ and inspired to live out the message of love and redemption proclaimed therein.