1 John 2:12

I write. From general considerations (chs. 1:4 to 2:11) the apostle turns to specific problems (ch. 2:12 and on). First, however, he lists his reasons for writing, naming particular groups. Four times he says, “I write” (vs. 12, 13), and twice “I have written” (v. 14). The significance of the difference in tense has been much discussed. Some think that by “have written” John refers to his Gospel. But there is no conclusive evidence that the Gospel had been written prior to the epistle (see pp. 624, 625). Others see in it reference to a previous epistle, now lost. Others suggest that John is only varying his language to avoid monotonous repetition. But he, more than other NT writers, is unafraid of apparent monotony where he deems it an effective literary device, and his variations are rarely without significance. Accordingly, others suggest that by the present tense John refers to what he is about to write, and by the past, to what he has already written.

Little children. Gr. teknia (see on v. 1). That the word embraces all faithful church members, old as well as young, is clear from the remainder of the verse. Messages to specific age groups appear in vs. 13, 14.

Because. Gr. hoti, “that,” or “because.” Some favor “that,” thinking that John means to remind his readers that their sins are forgiven. While such a rendering is possible here, it is not acceptable in vs. 13, 14, where hoti again occurs.

Are forgiven. That is, “have been forgiven.” The Greek tense indicates the continuing result of a past act of forgiveness. See on ch. 1:9.

His name’s sake. Or, “because of His [Christ’s] name,” “on account of His name,” “for the sake of His name” (see on Ps. 31:3; Acts 3:6, 16; cf. on Acts 4:12). The Father forgives the sin of the repentant sinner because of Christ’s “name,” that is, by virtue of His character and work. Because the forgiving power of the Saviour’s name was personally known to John’s readers, the apostle feels free to discuss deep spiritual truths with them. Forgiveness had opened a new world before them, and he proposes to help them explore it.