NOTES for Jo1 5:21
The last phrase of John's letter is written as if in passing, but from the fact that it is saved for last one can conclude that for the apostle it is especially important. Perhaps the issue here is not only pagan statues. Anything can become an idol, even harmless things, if they obscure Christ. Therefore, even after assimilating the full depth of the instructions of the Lord's beloved disciple, one must guard oneself against seemingly harmless "little things" that, like a speck in the eye or a pebble in the shoe, can cause an injury that takes a long time to heal.
