Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

Dedication -- Series introduction -- General editor's preface -- Author's preface -- Abbreviations -- Introduction -- Select annotated bibliography -- Text and commentary on the letters of John -- Scripture index -- Subject index.

The letters of John were born in a setting of theological and personal conflict not unlike our own day. John wrote with great pastoral concern to a Christian community that was threatened by disunity and false teaching. In his effort to beat back the gnostic heresy, proclaim the true nature of Christ, and encourage the faithful believers, John weaves together themes of light and darkness, falsehood and truth, and what it means to be children of God in community. Most prominently, he explores the theme of love as central to God's nature and this as the defining characteristic of those who follow him.