# I am writing to you, fathers

The word "fathers" here is possibly a metaphor referring to mature believers. Alternate translation: "I am writing to you, mature believers" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metaphor]])

# you know

"you have a relationship with"

# the one who is from the beginning

"the one who has always lived" or "the one who has always existed." It refers either to "Jesus" or to "God the Father."

# young men

This possibly refers to those who are no longer new believers but are growing in spiritual maturity. Alternate translation: "young believers" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metaphor]])

# overcome

The writer is speaking of the believers' refusal to follow Satan and of their frustrating his plans as if it were a matter of conquering him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metaphor]])

