1 John 2

Christ Our Advocate

1-2 The purpose of the letter: so John’s “children” will not sin, but if they do, they have Jesus as an Advocate, the atoning sacrifice for the whole world.

3-6 How to be sure we know Christ? Obey his commandments. The love of God will be perfected – completed – in us, only if we obey Christ.

This clarifies for me the difference between legalistically trying to do what’s “right” and obeying Christ. Obeying commandments is not legalism – as long as they are the commandments of Christ. Following carefully in His footsteps is what gives us freedom, shows our devotion for Him and for the Father. Legalism mistakes our footsteps for His. We substitute our laws for His freeing laws. The most vital one, I think is the Royal Law – as stated in James 2:8 – “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

A New Commandment

7-11 In some ways this is an old commandment, but made new because you have stepped from darkness and now follow the true light. But you can’t claim to be in the light if you hate your brother or sister. If you do, you are still walking in the darkness, and you will stumble [and fall.] Only those who love walk in the light.

Once again, the emphasis is on love, agapao in Greek. What does it mean to hate? Would it not include resentment, bitterness, jealousy, envy, undue criticism, backbiting? If we would keep ourselves pure, keep ourselves from stumbling, we must love our brothers and sisters unconditionally.

12-14 John writes to all because they are forgiven, because they know the Father, because they are strong.

Notice how John builds them up, has confidence in their salvation and dedication.

15-17 What not to love (also agapao)? The world, or the things therein, which are the desire of the flesh, desire of the eyes, pride in riches. The world won’t last, but those who obey God will live forever.

These three general categories of sin are repeated by example in Eve’s and Christ’s temptations (Genesis 3:6; Matthew 4:1-11).

Warning against Antichrists

18-19 We know this is the last hour, because antichrists have gone out from us, though they don’t belong to us; otherwise they would have remained.

Anti-Christ? Simply understood, anyone who would try to damage Christ’s good name, thwart His cause, stand against His people.

20-25 You know the truth; therefore, you can recognize these liars, these antichrists, who deny the inseparable Father and Son. Hold to the first teachings and you will abide and receive the promise of eternal life.

26-27 I write about those that would deceive you, but his anointing abides in you and will teach you the truth about all things.

Those chosen by Christ, who have received the truth, which, according to 2 John 1:2 “abides in us and will be with us forever.” Knowing the truth will protect us from believing a lie.

28 Once again, “abide in him,” and you will have confidence when he comes again.

A preview of 1 John 5:13-14, which speaks of “knowing” and “boldness.”