I write these things to you that you may know that you have eternal life. John wants to create certainty, not insecurity. You should KNOW, not hope, not pray, not worry.
Eternal life is not a reward after death. It is a present reality. You have it now. And this knowledge gives you authority because you no longer live from fear but from security.
Authority does not come from loud behavior. It comes from knowing who you are and what you have. You have eternal life. Now.