1,2&3 John

Author: The Apostle John

Period: c.85 -100 A.D.

Summary: This letter was written to a community that faced an early form of Gnostic heresy. John teaches how to walk in the light and also to keep in their remembrance the sacrifice that the Lord Jesus Christ made for them.

THE TRUTH AND THE CHURCH

Breakdown:

Introduction: why the epistle was written: Chapter 1:1-4

God is light: Chapter 1:5- 2:29

God is love: Chapter 3:1 – 4:21

God is life: Chapter 5:1-21

2John

Author: John

Period: c.85 -100 A.D.

Summary: The letter is addressed to “an elect lady” who is advised to have minimal fellowship with unbelievers. The ideas of love, truth, and obedience are emphasized.

THE TRUTH AND THE HOME

Breakdown:

Introduction: Verses 1-4

Exposition–love defined: Verses 5-6

Exhortation: Verses 7-9

Application–false charity to be avoided: Verses 10-11

Information: Verses 12-13

3 John

Author: John

Period: c.85 -100 A.D

Summary: This letter commends the believer Gaius for his piety and charity by allowing Christian teachers use of his home and financial means. He is urged to receive only good men who were known by their works and to shun evil men.

THE TRUTH AND THE INDIVIDUAL

Breakdown:

Gaius: sincere, dedicated, beloved: Verses 1-8

Diotrephes: domineering, self-assertive, arrogant: Verses 9-11

Demetrius: of good repute to all: Verse 12

Last words from John: Verses 13-14