John the Beloved Disciple

Des Manser

Moorestown Study Weekend (1997)

This series explores the first epistle of John, written by the disciple whom Jesus loved. Through careful teaching, it unfolds the character of John, his closeness to Jesus, and the deep spiritual truths he recorded for believers. Listeners are invited to walk in the light, abide in the Truth, and live as sons of God, shaped by the love and fellowship revealed in Jesus Christ.

John the Beloved Disciple

The opening study introduces John himself—the disciple who leaned on Jesus’ breast at the last supper and later described himself as “the one Jesus loved.” His transformation from a fiery young man into the gentle apostle of love demonstrates the power of Christ’s influence. This background helps us understand the language of light, life, and fellowship that fills his epistle.

Test of Discipleship

John begins his letter with the declaration of what was “from the beginning.” The study shows how this phrase points to the gospel’s beginning in Christ, the Word made flesh. Believers are reminded that true discipleship is measured by walking in the light, confessing sin, and keeping God’s commandments, not simply by claiming to know Him.

Abiding in the Truth

The third class emphasizes the unbroken fellowship that comes through the apostles’ doctrine. John warns against walking in darkness and urges believers to rely on Jesus Christ as their advocate. Abiding in the truth means recognizing both God’s justice and his mercy, and understanding reconciliation through the atoning work of Christ.

Living as Sons of God

Building on the theme of fellowship, this class highlights the astonishing gift of God’s love—that we should be called His children. Believers are begotten by the word of God and distinguished from the world by lives of righteousness and love. John reminds his readers that when Christ appears, they will be like him, for they will see him as he truly is.

1 John 4

This study focuses on discerning truth from error. John exhorts believers not to believe every spirit but to test the teachings they encounter. The test of genuine faith rests on acknowledging that Jesus came in the flesh and living out the command to love one another. God is love, and those who abide in him must demonstrate that love in word and deed.

Exhortation on 1 John 5

The series concludes with John’s assurance that eternal life is found in God’s Son. Those who are born of God overcome the world through faith, keeping his commandments as an expression of love. Believers are called to confidence in prayer, to reject idols, and to rest in the knowledge that God has given them true and everlasting life in Christ.

This description has been generated by AI and lightly edited.


Give ear, and hear my voice; give attention, and hear my speech.

Isaiah 28:23 (ESV)