In January I began a series on Sunday mornings teaching through 1 John.  On the first Sunday we did an overview of the book, focusing on the promises John gives as motives for writing the letter.  Then, last Sunday (1/13/08) I began the actual series. 

I am looking forward to working through John’s letter over the next several weeks. I think it will be encouraging and challenging to our church.  Encouraging because one of John’s primary themes is “Love” – something we’ve found Walnut Hill to overflow with.  Challenging because it is a call to continually grow.  

Several themes run throughout this letter. As you read it, and as we study it together, make a mental note about how John addresses them, both directly and indirectly. 

Among the key themes: 

Fellowship

Light

Love

Life 

Because of these concurrent themes, though perhaps not too creative, the series is titled: Living in Light & Love.    

As we study this book it might be important to note John’s style.  Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones rightly points out that, in contrast to the letters of Paul, “ John is not so logical”.   

It is not that there is no logic in John. But Paul is at times almost painfully logical in both his precision and depth (like Mr. Spock from Star Trek).   John seems to think more like an artist.  He is fond of word pictures, and his style is more circular than linear.  In other words he touches on a subject using brushstrokes to form a word picture (like “Light”) to illustrate rather than define.  He will then use his brush to paint other pictures, eventually coming back to a previous imagery.   

Being aware of John’s style will help you appreciate what he is writing. 

It is also a reminder that God did not create us all to think alike, even about the same subjects.