Book 23 of 27 in the New Testament — Assurance of genuine faith.
1 John was written to reassure believers troubled by teachers who had left the church while denying that Jesus had truly come in the flesh. John offers clear tests for genuine faith — belief in Jesus as God come in human form, obedience to his commands, and love for other believers. The letter's repeated declaration that ‘God is love’ grounds its ethical instruction in God's own character. Its purpose, stated directly, is so that believers ‘may know’ they have eternal life rather than merely hope for it.
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”King James Version
If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us.
“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.”King James Version
John marvels at the love that lets believers be called children of God.
“He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.”King James Version
God is described simply as love.
“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.”King James Version
Perfect love is said to drive out fear.
“These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”King James Version
John writes so believers may know they have eternal life.