1 John
1 John (c.95–100 CE) is a pastoral letter (style suggests the same Johannine community as the Gospel) intended to assure believers of their salvation in Christ. It emphasizes love as evidence of true faith and counsels adherence to apostolic doctrine, countering early false teachings.
Author: Traditionally John the Apostle (though unsigned, it claims to be written by 'the elder').
Date Written: Circa 95–100 CE.
Context: This letter addresses a community troubled by spurious teachings (perhaps proto-Gnosticism). It focuses on fellowship with the Father and Son, and love within the community as defining marks of Christian identity.