The Background of 1 John

The book of 1 John, like Hebrews, has a unique beginning, without a formal greeting or mention of any person. However, both internal and external evidence point to the Apostle John as the author. In his later years, the Apostle John settled in the city of Ephesus in Asia Minor. During the great persecution under Roman Emperor Domitian (reigned 81-96 AD), he was exiled to the island of Patmos. He later returned to Ephesus and passed away at the end of the first century. He wrote this letter from Ephesus to the surrounding churches in Asia Minor around 98 AD.

More than 60 years had passed since the ascension of Jesus. Many people were second- or third-generation Christians. The disciples who had seen Jesus were gradually passing away, but Jesus had not yet returned. Consequently, many believers were becoming complacent and no longer waiting watchfully. At this time, various “antichrists” and “false prophets” were emerging, denying the incarnation. These included Docetism, Cerinthianism, and early Gnosticism. As Jesus himself had prophesied: “Many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold” (Matthew 24:11-12).

However, John’s primary purpose in writing this letter was not to refute these heresies (1 John 2:26) but to protect his beloved “little children” (1 John 2:1) and help them “know that they have eternal life” amid the turmoil of these false teachings (1 John 5:13). He wanted them to know that:

They “know Him” (1 John 2:3)

They “are in Him” (1 John 2:5)

They “have passed from death to life” (1 John 3:14)

They “abide in Him and He in us” (1 John 4:13)

They “belong to the truth” (1 John 3:19) and “are from God” (1 John 5:19)

They “have eternal life” (1 John 5:13)