(10) I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him [that is] from the beginning. (11) I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. (12) I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father.
(10) He shows that this doctrine agrees to all ages, and first of all speaking to old men, he shows that Christ and his doctrine are ancient, and therefore if they enjoy with old things, nothing ought to be more acceptable to them.
(11) He advertises to young men, if they desire to show their strength, that they have a most glorious combat set here before them, that is, Satan the worst enemy, who must be overcome: willing them to be as sure of the victory, as if they had already gotten it.
(12) Finally, he shows to children, that the true Father from whom they have to look for all good things, is set before them in the gospel.