What is the meaning of 1 John 3:5? But you know “But you know” (1 John 3:5a) reminds believers of settled truth they have already received. John appeals to the certainty of faith, not speculation. • This echoes 1 John 2:21, “I have not written to you because you do not know the truth, but because you do know it.” • Scripture constantly calls us to remember what God has revealed (2 Peter 1:12–13; Jude 17). • Knowing, in biblical terms, is relational and experiential, grounded in the Spirit’s testimony (Romans 8:16). The verse assumes that God’s Word is clear, reliable, and authoritative for every believer (Psalm 19:7–11). Christ appeared “Christ appeared” (1 John 3:5b) points to the Incarnation—God the Son entering history in real flesh and blood. • John earlier wrote, “The Word became flesh and tabernacled among us” (John 1:14). • His appearing fulfills promises dating back to Genesis 3:15 and Isaiah 7:14. • Hebrews 9:26 states, “He has appeared once for all…to do away with sin by the sacrifice of Himself.” • The verb “appeared” underscores historical reality; Jesus is no myth but was seen, heard, and touched (1 John 1:1–2). To take away sins “…to take away sins” (1 John 3:5c) reveals the purpose of His coming. • John the Baptist declared, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). • The phrase ties to the Day of Atonement imagery where the scapegoat carried sin away (Leviticus 16:21–22). • Jesus removes guilt, penalty, and power of sin (Colossians 2:13–14; Romans 6:6–7). • This is substitutionary: “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree” (1 Peter 2:24). • The completeness of the work means believers stand cleansed (Hebrews 10:14). In Him there is no sin “…and in Him there is no sin” (1 John 3:5d) underscores His sinless nature. • Jesus challenged His opponents, “Which of you can prove Me guilty of sin?” (John 8:46). Silence followed. • 2 Corinthians 5:21 affirms, “God made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us.” • Hebrews 4:15 calls Him “without sin,” ensuring He could be the spotless Lamb (1 Peter 1:19). • Because He is sinless, His sacrifice is wholly sufficient (Hebrews 7:26–27). • His purity becomes the believer’s model: “Whoever claims to abide in Him must walk as Jesus walked” (1 John 2:6). summary 1 John 3:5 proclaims four intertwined certainties: believers already know the truth; Jesus truly entered history; His mission was to lift our sins away; and He could do so because He is perfectly sinless. Holding these truths fuels assurance, gratitude, and a life that reflects His holiness. |
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