For the right understanding of these verses it is important to observe, first, that in them the apostle represents himself as appealing to Christians on the ground of the experience and knowledge which they already possess; compare verse 1 John 2:21; secondly, that the repetitions of the words, "I write," "I have written," are for the sake of emphasis, both forms referring to the present epistle; thirdly, that the term "little children" is referred by some to all Christians, who are then distributed into "fathers" and "young men"; while others suppose that Christians of three different ages are addressed.

Your sins are forgiven; very appropriate to children upon either of the above interpretations, as forgiveness of sin lies at the foundation of the Christian life.

His name's sake; on account of what Christ has done.

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Old Testament