Behind | John’s “Children”

At the time of the writing of these letters, John is an old man. He’s outlived Jesus by roughly sixty years, and the other disciples have been systematically executed for their faith. As the last surviving disciple and, according to tradition, the only one not to have been martyred, John has a unique place in the church and an almost grandfatherly role in the lives of younger believers. This is apparent throughout 1 John, especially in his tone and in the way he addresses his audience. Phrases like “young people,” “dear children” and “fathers” are common throughout the letter:

Similarly, the author of 2 John and 3 John refers to himself as “The elder,” suggesting not only an older individual but also one with a singular authority or identity within the “family” of believers.