BIG IDEA: Be in the Light as He is in the Light
I. Background
1. Author
The Apostle John, the Son of Zebedee
The one whom Jesus loved (John 21:20-24)
Author of the Gospel of John and Revelation
The only Apostle that died of natural causes
2. Style
Not a letter, but more of a sermon
Non-linear communique
Use of contrasts
3. Purpose
Cerinthus (Irenaeus, Against Heresies)
For the next generation who have not seen (1:3-4)
Negative—Damage control from a church split
Many antichrists (2:18)
False prophets (4:1)
They went out from us, but are not from us (2:18)
They deny Jesus is the Messiah (2:22)
They deny that Jesus came in the flesh (4:2)
Positive—God is light & love (1:5, 3:11)
Therefore, walk accordingly
II. God is Light
1. Authority and purpose (1:1-4)
2. The character of God: He is light (1:5)
A. The light
The character & nature of God, fellowship, holy conduct
B. The Dark
The character & nature of the world,
outside fellowship, unholy conduct
3. Implications for our conduct (1:6-2:7)
A. Incompatibilities (1:6, 1:8, 10, 2:4)
B. Affirmations (1:7, 1:9, 2:4)
C. How should we then live?

He does not want us to sin (2:1).
Living in direct sin is not compatible with a life of faith.
If we do, we have an advocate (2:1)
If we do, we have forgiveness and cleansing (1:9)
Fellowship with God is obedience to God.

If you love me, you will keep my commandments
John 14:15 ESV

DC Talk’s In the Light:
I wanna be in the Light, as You are in the Light
I wanna shine like the stars in the Heavens
Oh, Lord be my light and be my Salvation
'Cause all I want is to be in the Light