Main Idea. Jesus Christ is the eternal Word of God made flesh.

Question. Why trust the apostles over the apostates?

1. Because They Knew Christ (v.1)

Application.

Trust the apostles’ testimony because they truly knew Him.

2. Because They Proclaimed God’s Truth (v.2)

Application.

Hear clearly what the apostles say because it comes from God.

3. Because They Invite Us Into Fellowship (vv.3–4)

Application.

This fellowship with God is to be shared with the world, not reserved for a select few.

Framing the book.

We must know who Jesus Christ is.

We can have assurance of salvation. “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life.” (5:13).