In his opening chapters John has been at pains to call us to remain in Christ, to remain in the light. Chapter 3 begins to address what it looks like to do that and the heart of it is this appeal,
See what great love the Father has lavished on us
1 John 3:1
In the chapter he warns us of two things that will distract us from his love, and one consequence that will follow if we focus on his love
- Do not be deceived
- Do not be surprised
- Do set your hearts at rest in his presence