Old Command, New Command, Live Forever

John's writing style is a bit random, and so my response to what I've read is a bit random, too.

In verses 7-8 of chapter 2, John reminds his readers that the message he is writing is an old one. I'm not sure if this is specifically a reference to the Old Testament, but it is definitely a warning against creating any wild new interpretations about the meaning of God and Jesus.

He then goes on to tell his readers that this is in fact a new message. This appears to be a reference to Jesus' death and resurrection.

In verse 17 John writes that the person who obeys God will live forever. This stikes me as a clear explanation of God's requirements, but I suppose it's not true that everyone has a clear view of what it means to obey God!

In the NASB, it links verse 17 to three other New Testament passages. Here is a link to Romans 13:12, Ephesians 5:8, and 1 Thessalonians 5:4.

Meditate upon these three passages, dear Reader. What do they say to you?