This article proposes a structure and argument for 1 John based on the locations of both the verb γράϕω and the vocative forms. It argues that 1 John has two parts: an extended introduction that orientates the reader to the themes of sin and love (1.1–2.11), and a body in which the historical situation is addressed (2.15–5.21). It divides 1 John into units based on vocabulary associated with each theme and then appeals to literary devices to verify each unit. The relationship between each unit is investigated in order to ascertain the structure.
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