2:1 that you may not sin. John wants his readers to respond to God’s mercy with a life of obedience. This is an expression of concern for those among whom he has served (2 John 4–6; 3 John 3, 4). 1 John does not give details about the sins of the readers or of their heretical opponents (unlike, e.g., 1 Corinthians).

advocate. The Greek word is parakletos, a “helper,” such as an attorney in a legal matter. In the Gospel of John it is used of the Holy Spirit (John 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7). The word is not found elsewhere in the New Testament, although it is common in other literature.