What is the significance of "confidence" at Christ's coming in 1 John 2:28? Canonical Setting and Immediate Context First John positions 2:28 at the hinge between warning believers against antichrists (2:18–27) and affirming their identity as God’s children (2:29–3:3). John has just highlighted the anointing that teaches truth and the necessity of abiding in Christ. Verse 28 therefore functions as the summary exhortation and the bridge to the eschatological hope that follows. Text “And now, little children, remain in Him, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.” (1 John 2:28) The Mandate of Abiding (Meno, G3306) “Remain in Him” is present imperative: continuous action. Abiding involves doctrinal fidelity (2:24), moral obedience (3:6), and relational intimacy (4:13). Parrēsia is the fruit of a life steeped in this tri-fold abiding. Confidence versus Shame “Ashamed” (αἰσχυνθῶμεν, aischunthōmen) evokes the prophetic motif of covenant shame (Daniel 12:2). The contrast parallels Jesus’ warning: “Whoever is ashamed of Me… the Son of Man will be ashamed of him” (Luke 9:26). John’s pastoral aim is preventive: abiding now eliminates future disgrace. Eschatological Significance 1. Public Vindication—Believers will stand “before Him,” echoing the bēma seat of 2 Corinthians 5:10 where works are evaluated. 2. Reward—Confidence presupposes approval (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:14). 3. Assurance of Sonship—Those living as children (2:29–3:2) will find their identity ratified. Ethical and Behavioral Implications Behavioral science observes that consistent, intimate attachment fosters secure confidence; analogously, continual communion with Christ cultivates fearlessness (1 John 4:18). Holiness-oriented behavior reduces cognitive dissonance about meeting a holy Judge. Intertextual Parallels • 1 John 3:21—“If our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God.” • 1 John 4:17—“In this, love has been perfected among us, so that we may have confidence on the day of judgment.” • Hebrews 10:35—“So do not throw away your confidence; it holds a great reward.” Together they form a Johannine-Hebraic theology: perfected love ➜ fearless confidence ➜ reward. Patristic Echoes Polycarp (Philippians 7) quotes 1 John, urging believers to “abide steadfast in the faith… that we may have confidence at the day of judgment.” Irenaeus (AH 3.16.6) links parrēsia with resurrection hope. Their usage affirms the early church’s expectation of a literal, conscious parousia. Theological Synthesis 1. Christological—The bodily return of the incarnate Son frames Christian hope. 2. Pneumatological—The anointing (2:20,27) empowers abiding, leading to parrēsia. 3. Ecclesiological—Corporate perseverance ensures collective boldness (Hebrews 3:6). Practical Application • Guard doctrine: test spirits (1 John 4:1). • Pursue holiness: “Everyone who has this hope purifies himself” (3:3). • Cultivate intimacy: habitual prayer and Scripture intake deepen abiding. • Engage mission: boldness now (Acts 4:29) anticipates boldness then. Summative Answer In 1 John 2:28 “confidence” signifies the fearless, assured stance of believers who have persevered in doctrinal truth, moral purity, and relational intimacy with Christ. Such parrēsia will replace shame when He visibly returns, testifying to genuine regeneration and yielding reward at His judgment seat. Continuous abiding is the ordained means to secure this triumphant boldness. |
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