The 4 Tests (5:1-13)

1. John, here, seems to be summarizing his main reason for writing the letter. He wants the readers & hearers of the letter to ‘know’ that they had eternal life (v. 13). Let’s take another look at the tests John presented in this letter, as summarized here:

Type-----------Test----------Examples
Moral----------Obedience-----5:2b-4
Social----------Love----------- 5:1b-2a
Doctrinal-------Jesus is Christ--5:1a, 5
Spiritual-------Spirit’s Presence--5:6-10

2. There are some major translation issues in this section. What is the explanation for these differences?

NKJV
7 For there are three that bear witness in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one. 8 And there are three that bear witness on earth: the Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three agree as one.

NIV
7 For there are three that testify: 8 the Spirit, the water and the blood; and the three are in agreement.

* The extended verse 7 is most likely a later addition.

3. Is it possible to have eternal life by accepting God while rejecting the Son?

* No, as clearly stated in verse 12