Chapter summary:
The prologue (1:1-4) establishes the author's credibility: he is an eyewitness. But even more, it lays the foundation of faith. God the Father has a Son, the source of eternal life. This Son, Jesus Christ, has lived in our world, and those who believe in Him have fellowship with Him even now—and through that fellowship, joy.
But to have fellowship with God a person must "walk in the light." In context and in Johannine theology "light" is utter, absolute truth. To walk in the light is to be honest with God and with ourselves (vv. 5-7). It is neither true nor honest to claim that we are without sin (v. 8). Instead, we are to confess (acknowledge) our sins—and through confession experience both the forgiving and cleansing power of God (vv. 9-10). As we bring our weaknesses to God He will transform us and enable us to become the obedient, loving, and trusting people the rest of this letter calls us to be.
The believer’s personal application: The person who excuses their self for their sins is weighted down by them. One who confesses their sins leaves them behind.
TEXTUAL INSIGHT
"From the beginning" (1:1):
In John 1:1 "the Word" (Christ) was "in the beginning." Here is the Gospel John has heard and proclaims is from the beginning. God's plan of salvation is rooted in eternity, although its expression in the flesh is something John himself witnessed in Jesus.
"God is light" (1:5):
To sense the significance of this statement, imagine yourself stumbling through a strange place on the darkest of nights. All you can see is shadows that frighten and confuse. And then, suddenly, a bright light shines on the scene and you can see everything clearly. There are no more illusions, no more imagined fears. Now at last you can find your way safely, for you can see every obstacle for what it really is. In the spiritual realm darkness blinds human beings, forcing the lost to live in a world of illusion. Only if we walk in the light of God’s Word, can we see things for what they really are—and respond appropriately.
"Live by the truth" (1:6):
A basic meaning of both the Hebrew and Greek words translated "truth" is in full harmony with reality. If we are to have fellowship with God, we must not only see things as they are, but we must live by the reality that’s revealed.
“Purified from every sin” (1:7):
Some have taken the "light" as sinlessness. But this verse tells us that when we walk in the light, Christ's blood purifies us from every sin. If we are honest with ourselves and God we will see our sins in the light of God's Word—and will appeal to Christ for purification.
"Without sin" (1:8):
Don't ever suppose that salvation makes a person sinless. And don't dismiss anger as righteous indignation, or vindictiveness as justice. Sin is our constant companion and will be, until Jesus comes and we are transformed into His likeness. Only if you and I recognize our vulnerability and are honest about our failures, will we remain in fellowship with God and grow.
“Confess sins” (1:9-10):
The confession of sins is not "saying you're sorry." It is agreeing with God that a particular act is sin—and so taking sides with Him and against yourself. What happens if we confess our sins? Then God forgives our sins and continues the process of purification from unrighteousness the Spirit has begun in us. What happens if we make excuses, or refuse to acknowledge a particular act was sin? We put up a barrier between ourselves and God. In essence, we deny that His word about our sinful act is true and cut ourselves off from His transforming power.
