Epistles of John cartoons - 1st John, 2nd John, 3rd John

Here's a concise summary of the three epistles of John from the New Testament, traditionally attributed to the Apostle John:

1 John

This letter emphasizes the themes of love, light, and truth as central to Christian life. It addresses a community facing internal challenges, possibly from false teachers or schisms. Key points include:

  • Fellowship with God: Walking in the light (truth and righteousness) ensures fellowship with God and cleansing from sin (1:5-7).

  • Love as Evidence: True faith is demonstrated through love for one another, reflecting God’s love (4:7-12).

  • Assurance: Believers can have confidence in their salvation by obeying God’s commands and trusting in Jesus as the Son of God (5:1-13).

  • It warns against "antichrists" who deny Jesus’ incarnation and urges discernment (2:18-23).

2 John

A brief letter, likely addressed to a specific church (symbolized as "the elect lady") or a Christian woman and her family:

  • Truth and Love: John encourages walking in truth and love, reinforcing the command to love one another (vv. 4-6).

  • Warning Against Deceivers: It cautions against false teachers who deny Jesus came in the flesh, urging readers not to welcome them (vv. 7-11).

  • It’s personal and pastoral, expressing hope for a future visit (v. 12).

3 John

Another short letter, addressed to an individual named Gaius, commending his faithfulness:

  • Hospitality: Praises Gaius for supporting traveling Christian missionaries, contrasting this with Diotrephes, who selfishly opposes such efforts (vv. 5-10).

  • Good vs. Evil: Encourages doing good as a reflection of God’s nature, while condemning divisive behavior (v. 11).

  • It also mentions Demetrius favorably and ends with a desire to meet in person (vv. 13-14).

Together, these letters focus on living authentically in faith, love, and truth, while guarding against deception and division in the early Christian communities.