What is the meaning of 1 John 2:4? If anyone says - John reminds us that verbal claims alone do not impress God. Throughout Scripture, words are weighed against deeds (James 1:22; Titus 1:16). - The phrase opens the door to self-examination: anyone can “say” something, but the Lord “tests the hearts” (Proverbs 17:3). “I know Him” - “Know” is not casual acquaintance; it speaks of personal, covenant relationship. Jesus describes eternal life as knowing “the only true God, and Jesus Christ” (John 17:3). - Claiming to know God carries the expectation of alignment with His character (Jeremiah 22:15-16). but does not keep His commandments - Obedience is the practical evidence of relationship. Jesus links love and obedience explicitly: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). - “Commandments” here encompass all that Christ has taught, summarized in loving God and neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40) yet including moral specifics (e.g., Ephesians 4:25-32). - The conjunction “but” draws a stark contrast: lip service with no life change. he is a liar - Scripture does not soften the verdict. A profession without obedience is falsehood (Matthew 7:21-23). - Calling such a person “a liar” aligns with God’s consistent intolerance for hypocrisy (Isaiah 29:13; 1 Peter 2:1). - This mirrors earlier words in the letter: “If we claim to have fellowship with Him yet walk in darkness, we lie” (1 John 1:6). and the truth is not in him - Truth is more than accurate information; it is an indwelling reality. Jesus is “the truth” (John 14:6), and His Spirit leads into all truth (John 16:13). - When truth dwells within, it inevitably shapes conduct (3 John 4). Lack of obedience exposes a vacancy where truth should reside (Ephesians 4:17-24). summary 1 John 2:4 draws a clear line: knowing God and obeying God are inseparable. Words alone cannot substitute for a transformed, obedient life. Genuine believers will increasingly reflect Christ’s commands, proving that truth not only informs them but indwells them. |
    |