Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ
This phrase emphasizes the necessity of faith in Jesus as the Messiah, the anointed one promised in the Old Testament. The term "Christ" is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew "Messiah," indicating Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecies such as Isaiah 9:6-7 and Daniel 9:25-26. Belief in Jesus as the Christ is foundational to Christian doctrine, as seen in Peter's confession in Matthew 16:16. This belief is not merely intellectual assent but involves trust and reliance on Jesus for salvation, as highlighted in John 3:16.

has been born of God
The concept of being "born of God" refers to spiritual rebirth, a theme central to John's writings (John 3:3-8). This new birth is a work of the Holy Spirit, marking a transformation from spiritual death to life. It signifies a new identity and relationship with God, as seen in 2 Corinthians 5:17. This rebirth is not achieved by human effort but is a divine act of grace, aligning with Ephesians 2:8-9.

and everyone who loves the Father
Loving the Father is a natural response to being born of God. This love is not merely emotional but involves obedience and reverence, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:5. The relationship between love for God and obedience is further emphasized in John 14:15. The Father, in this context, refers to God as the source of life and the one who initiates the believer's spiritual birth.

also loves those born of Him
This phrase underscores the inseparable link between love for God and love for fellow believers. The community of faith is characterized by mutual love, as instructed in John 13:34-35. This love is a reflection of God's love and serves as a testimony to the world. The early church exemplified this love in their communal life, as described in Acts 2:44-47. Loving others born of God is an evidence of genuine faith and spiritual rebirth, as reiterated in 1 John 4:7-8.

By this we know that we love the children of God:
This phrase emphasizes the assurance believers have in their love for fellow Christians. The "children of God" refers to those who have been born again through faith in Jesus Christ. The concept of being children of God is rooted in passages like John 1:12-13, which speaks of those who receive Christ being given the right to become children of God. The assurance of love is not based on feelings but on observable actions and obedience to God's commands. This reflects the communal aspect of the early church, where love for one another was a defining characteristic (John 13:35).

when we love God
Loving God is the foundational commandment in both the Old and New Testaments. Deuteronomy 6:5 commands, "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." Jesus reiterates this as the greatest commandment in Matthew 22:37-38. The love for God is not merely emotional but involves a commitment to His will and purposes. In the historical context of the early church, this love was often tested by persecution and societal pressures, yet it remained the core of Christian identity and practice.

and keep His commandments.
Obedience to God's commandments is a tangible expression of love for Him. This echoes Jesus' words in John 14:15, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." The commandments refer not only to the moral laws found in the Old Testament but also to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. In the cultural context of the time, keeping God's commandments set believers apart from the surrounding pagan practices and demonstrated their allegiance to Christ. This obedience is not legalistic but is empowered by the Holy Spirit, who enables believers to live according to God's will (Romans 8:4).

For this is the love of God
This phrase emphasizes the nature of true love for God, which is not merely emotional or abstract but is demonstrated through action. In the biblical context, love is often tied to obedience and faithfulness. This aligns with the Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4-5, where love for God is expressed through wholehearted devotion. The love of God is also reflected in the New Testament teachings of Jesus, who stated that the greatest commandment is to love God with all one's heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37).

that we keep His commandments
Keeping God's commandments is a central theme throughout Scripture, highlighting the importance of obedience as a response to God's love and grace. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were given the Law as a covenantal guide for living in relationship with God (Exodus 19:5-6). In the New Testament, Jesus affirmed the continuity of the moral law, emphasizing that love for Him is shown through obedience to His commands (John 14:15). This phrase underscores the belief that true faith is evidenced by a life that seeks to align with God's will.

And His commandments are not burdensome
This statement reflects the transformative power of God's grace, which enables believers to follow His commandments with joy rather than as a heavy obligation. In contrast to the Pharisaic legalism criticized by Jesus (Matthew 23:4), the commandments of God are designed for the well-being and flourishing of His people. The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in Romans 7:22, where he delights in God's law. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live out God's commands, making them a source of freedom rather than a burden (Galatians 5:1).

because everyone born of God overcomes the world.
This phrase emphasizes the transformative power of spiritual rebirth. In the context of 1 John, being "born of God" refers to a spiritual regeneration that occurs through faith in Jesus Christ. This concept is rooted in the teachings of Jesus, particularly in John 3:3-8, where He speaks to Nicodemus about being "born again" to see the kingdom of God. The idea of overcoming the world suggests a victory over worldly values and systems that are contrary to God's will. In the Greco-Roman world, where early Christians lived, societal norms often conflicted with Christian teachings. Overcoming the world implies a triumph over these pressures and temptations. This victory is not through human effort but through divine empowerment, as seen in Philippians 4:13, which states, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

And this is the victory that has overcome the world:
The term "victory" here is significant, as it denotes a decisive conquest. In the original Greek, the word used is "nike," which conveys a sense of triumph and success. This victory is not a future event but a present reality for believers. The historical context of the early church, which faced persecution and opposition, highlights the importance of this assurance. The victory is not merely personal but communal, as the early Christian community found strength in their shared faith. This concept is echoed in Romans 8:37, where Paul declares that believers are "more than conquerors" through Christ. The victory is comprehensive, affecting all aspects of life and enabling believers to live in accordance with God's will despite external challenges.

our faith.
Faith is the central element in this victory. It is not faith in faith itself, but faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior. This faith is both a gift from God and a response to His revelation, as seen in Ephesians 2:8-9, which emphasizes that faith is a gift of grace. The faith that overcomes the world is active and living, characterized by trust, obedience, and perseverance. Hebrews 11 provides numerous examples of individuals whose faith enabled them to overcome significant challenges. In the cultural context of the early church, faith was a radical departure from the prevailing religious and philosophical systems. It required a commitment to a new way of life, often at great personal cost. This faith is not static but dynamic, growing through trials and sustained by the Holy Spirit, as indicated in James 1:2-4, which speaks of the testing of faith producing perseverance.

Who then overcomes the world?
This phrase poses a rhetorical question that emphasizes the victory of believers over worldly influences. In the biblical context, "the world" often refers to systems and values opposed to God (1 John 2:15-17). Overcoming the world implies triumph over sin, temptation, and spiritual opposition. This concept is rooted in Jesus' own words in John 16:33, where He assures His followers of His victory over the world. The idea of overcoming is also linked to the promises given to the churches in Revelation (Revelation 2-3), where those who overcome are promised eternal rewards.

Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.
This phrase identifies the key to overcoming the world: faith in Jesus as the Son of God. Belief in Jesus' divine sonship is central to Christian doctrine, affirming His deity and unique relationship with the Father (John 1:14, 18). This belief is not merely intellectual assent but involves trust and reliance on Jesus for salvation and daily living. The confession of Jesus as the Son of God is a recurring theme in the New Testament, seen in Peter's confession (Matthew 16:16) and the purpose statement of John's Gospel (John 20:31). This faith is transformative, enabling believers to live victoriously despite worldly challenges.

This is the One who came by water and blood
This phrase refers to Jesus Christ and His earthly ministry. "Water" is often interpreted as His baptism in the Jordan River, marking the beginning of His public ministry (Matthew 3:13-17). "Blood" signifies His crucifixion, the culmination of His redemptive work (John 19:34). These two events are pivotal in the life of Jesus, symbolizing His obedience to the Father and His sacrificial death for humanity's sins. The dual mention emphasizes the completeness of His mission, fulfilling both the requirements of righteousness and atonement.

Jesus Christ—not by water alone, but by water and blood
This clarification underscores that Jesus' mission was not limited to His baptism, which alone would not suffice for salvation. The inclusion of "blood" highlights the necessity of His sacrificial death, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and typologies of the sacrificial system (Isaiah 53:5, Leviticus 17:11). The dual emphasis refutes early heresies, such as Docetism, which denied the physical reality of Jesus' suffering and death. It affirms the full humanity and divinity of Christ, essential for His role as the mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5).

And it is the Spirit who testifies to this
The Holy Spirit's role is to bear witness to the truth of Jesus' identity and work. This testimony is consistent with the Spirit's function throughout Scripture, guiding believers into all truth (John 16:13). The Spirit's witness is internal, confirming the believer's faith, and external, through the inspired Scriptures and the proclamation of the Gospel. The Spirit's testimony is reliable and authoritative, providing assurance of the truth of Christ's redemptive work.

because the Spirit is the truth
This statement affirms the Spirit's nature as the embodiment of truth, aligning with Jesus' declaration that He is "the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). The Spirit's testimony is trustworthy because it originates from the very essence of God, who cannot lie (Titus 1:2). This truth is foundational for the believer's faith, providing certainty in the message of salvation and the person of Jesus Christ. The Spirit's role as the truth also connects to the broader biblical theme of God's faithfulness and the reliability of His promises.

For there are three that testify:
This phrase introduces a significant theological concept regarding the nature of testimony and witness in the Christian faith. The number three is often symbolic in the Bible, representing completeness and divine perfection. In the context of 1 John, the testimony refers to the witness of God concerning His Son, Jesus Christ. This aligns with the Jewish legal requirement for the testimony of two or three witnesses to establish a matter (Deuteronomy 19:15). The use of "three" here emphasizes the reliability and sufficiency of the testimony being presented.

In the broader context of 1 John, the apostle is addressing the assurance of eternal life through belief in Jesus Christ. The testimony is not merely human but divine, underscoring the truth of Jesus' identity and mission. This passage connects to the broader biblical theme of God's revelation and the affirmation of Jesus as the Messiah, as seen in other scriptures such as Matthew 3:16-17, where the Spirit, the water, and the blood are seen as witnesses to Jesus' divine sonship.

Historically, this verse has been the subject of textual variations, particularly in the King James Version, which includes additional wording not found in the earliest Greek manuscripts. This has led to discussions about the authenticity and interpretation of the text. However, the core message remains focused on the divine testimony concerning Jesus Christ, which is central to the Christian faith.

Theologically, this passage affirms the unity and agreement of the witnesses, reflecting the harmonious nature of God's revelation. It also points to the work of the Holy Spirit in bearing witness to the truth of Jesus Christ, a theme that is echoed in other New Testament writings, such as John 15:26 and Romans 8:16. The testimony of the Spirit, the water, and the blood serves to confirm the believer's faith and the reality of Jesus' incarnation, death, and resurrection. the Spirit
The Spirit refers to the Holy Spirit, who is the third person of the Trinity. In the context of 1 John, the Spirit is a witness to the truth of Jesus Christ's identity and mission. The Holy Spirit's role as a witness is consistent with other New Testament passages, such as John 15:26, where the Spirit is described as the "Spirit of truth" who testifies about Jesus. The Spirit's testimony is internal, confirming the believer's faith and understanding of Christ's work. The presence of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life is a fulfillment of Jesus' promise in John 14:16-17, where He assures His followers that the Spirit will dwell with them and be in them.

the water
The water likely refers to Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River, which marked the beginning of His public ministry. This event is significant as it was accompanied by the descent of the Holy Spirit and the voice of God the Father affirming Jesus as His beloved Son (Matthew 3:16-17). The water serves as a testimony to Jesus' divine sonship and His anointing for ministry. In a broader sense, water can also symbolize purification and the new life that comes through faith in Christ, as seen in the practice of Christian baptism (Romans 6:3-4).

and the blood
The blood refers to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, where His sacrificial death on the cross provided atonement for sin. The shedding of Jesus' blood is central to the New Testament's message of redemption and is frequently mentioned as the means by which believers are cleansed and reconciled to God (Ephesians 1:7, Hebrews 9:22). The blood of Christ is a powerful testimony to His role as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). It fulfills Old Testament prophecies and sacrificial types, such as the Passover lamb (Exodus 12:21-23) and the suffering servant in Isaiah 53.

and these three are in agreement
The agreement of the Spirit, the water, and the blood emphasizes the unified testimony to the truth of Jesus Christ's identity and work. This tri-fold witness aligns with the biblical principle that a matter is established by the testimony of two or three witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15). The Spirit, water, and blood together affirm that Jesus is the Son of God, fully divine and fully human, who accomplished salvation for humanity. This agreement underscores the reliability and consistency of God's revelation in Christ, providing assurance to believers of their faith's foundation.

Even if we accept human testimony
In the ancient world, human testimony was often used in legal and religious contexts to establish truth. The Jewish law required two or three witnesses to confirm a matter (Deuteronomy 19:15). This phrase acknowledges the validity of human testimony but sets the stage for a comparison with divine testimony. The early church faced challenges from false teachers, making the reliability of testimony crucial. This phrase suggests that if we trust human witnesses, how much more should we trust God’s testimony.

the testimony of God is greater
God's testimony surpasses human testimony in authority and truthfulness. Throughout Scripture, God’s words and actions are depicted as infallible and trustworthy (Numbers 23:19). The divine testimony is not subject to human error or deceit. This statement emphasizes the superiority of God’s revelation, particularly in the context of Jesus Christ’s identity and mission. The greater testimony of God is seen in the fulfillment of prophecies and the resurrection of Jesus, which serve as divine validation of His Son.

For this is the testimony that God has given about His Son
The testimony refers to God’s declaration and affirmation of Jesus as His Son. This is seen at Jesus’ baptism and transfiguration, where God’s voice from heaven confirms Jesus’ divine sonship (Matthew 3:17, 17:5). The testimony includes the works and miracles of Jesus, His teachings, and ultimately His resurrection, which is the cornerstone of Christian faith (1 Corinthians 15:14). This divine testimony is central to the gospel message and is the foundation for belief in Jesus as the Messiah and Savior.

Whoever believes in the Son of God has this testimony within him;
Belief in the Son of God is central to Christian faith, emphasizing the necessity of personal faith in Jesus Christ. This belief is not merely intellectual assent but involves trust and reliance on Jesus as Savior and Lord. The "testimony within him" refers to the internal witness of the Holy Spirit, affirming the truth of the Gospel (Romans 8:16). This internal testimony is a fulfillment of the promise of the New Covenant, where God writes His laws on the hearts of believers (Jeremiah 31:33). The concept of testimony is rooted in Jewish legal practices, where two or three witnesses were required to establish truth (Deuteronomy 19:15). Here, the believer's internal witness aligns with the external testimony of Scripture and the historical reality of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.

whoever does not believe God has made Him out to be a liar,
This phrase underscores the seriousness of unbelief. To reject the testimony of God concerning His Son is to accuse God of falsehood. This is a grave sin, as it challenges the very nature of God, who is truth (John 14:6). The language here echoes the Old Testament, where disbelief in God's promises was equated with rebellion (Numbers 14:11). In the cultural context of the first century, calling someone a liar was a severe accusation, often leading to social and legal consequences. Thus, the rejection of God's testimony is not a trivial matter but a fundamental denial of His character and revelation.

because he has not believed in the testimony that God has given about His Son.
The testimony God has given about His Son includes the prophetic writings of the Old Testament, the witness of John the Baptist (John 1:29-34), the miracles and teachings of Jesus (John 5:36), and the apostolic witness (Acts 2:32). This testimony is comprehensive, involving both divine revelation and historical events. The phrase highlights the continuity of God's redemptive plan, fulfilled in Jesus Christ. The refusal to believe this testimony is a rejection of the entire biblical narrative, from the promises made to Abraham (Genesis 12:3) to their fulfillment in Christ (Galatians 3:16). This disbelief is not merely a personal choice but a rejection of the divine narrative that spans history and culminates in the person and work of Jesus.

And this is that testimony:
The term "testimony" in this context refers to the witness or declaration of God. In biblical times, a testimony was a solemn declaration of truth, often given in a legal or covenantal context. This phrase emphasizes the divine authority and reliability of the message being conveyed. The concept of testimony is central to the Johannine writings, where the truth about Jesus is consistently affirmed by God, the Spirit, and the apostles (John 5:31-39).

God has given us eternal life:
Eternal life is a central theme in the New Testament, particularly in the writings of John. It is not merely an unending existence but a quality of life that begins now and continues forever, characterized by a relationship with God. This life is a gift from God, emphasizing His grace and love. The present tense "has given" indicates that eternal life is a current possession for believers, not just a future promise. This aligns with John 3:16, where eternal life is offered through belief in Jesus.

and this life is in His Son:
The phrase underscores the exclusivity of Jesus as the source of eternal life. It reflects the core Christian belief that salvation and eternal life are found only through Jesus Christ. This is consistent with Jesus' own words in John 14:6, where He declares Himself the way, the truth, and the life. The preposition "in" signifies a deep, abiding union with Christ, which is a recurring theme in the New Testament, particularly in the writings of Paul (e.g., Galatians 2:20). This union is both mystical and real, signifying that life in its fullest sense is found in a relationship with Jesus.

Whoever has the Son has life;
This phrase emphasizes the centrality of Jesus Christ in the Christian faith. The "Son" refers to Jesus, the Son of God, highlighting the unique relationship between Jesus and God the Father. The concept of "having" the Son implies a personal relationship and acceptance of Jesus as Lord and Savior. This is consistent with the teachings of the New Testament, where eternal life is often linked to faith in Jesus (John 3:16, John 14:6). The term "life" here is not merely physical existence but eternal life, a quality of life that begins now and continues forever with God. This reflects the Johannine theme of life, which is a gift from God through Christ (John 10:10).

whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.
This phrase presents a stark contrast and serves as a warning. It underscores the exclusivity of salvation through Jesus Christ, a theme prevalent in the New Testament (Acts 4:12). The absence of the Son equates to the absence of eternal life, reinforcing the idea that eternal life is inseparable from a relationship with Jesus. This dichotomy is consistent with the broader biblical narrative that presents two paths: one leading to life and the other to death (Deuteronomy 30:19). The phrase also reflects the early Christian understanding of Jesus as the sole mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5). The repetition of "life" emphasizes its importance and the urgency of the decision to accept or reject Jesus.

I have written these things
This phrase indicates the purpose of the letter. The Apostle John, traditionally understood to be the author, writes with authority as an eyewitness of Jesus Christ. The phrase "these things" refers to the contents of the entire epistle, which emphasizes themes of love, obedience, and truth. The letter serves as a pastoral guide to ensure the readers' faith is grounded in the true teachings of Christ, countering false doctrines prevalent at the time.

to you who believe
John addresses believers, those who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ. This community likely consisted of both Jewish and Gentile Christians. The early church faced challenges from Gnostic teachings, which denied the humanity of Christ and promoted secret knowledge. By affirming belief, John reinforces the foundational Christian doctrine that faith in Jesus is essential for salvation.

in the name of the Son of God
The "name" signifies the authority and character of Jesus Christ. In biblical times, a name represented the essence of a person. By believing in the name of the Son of God, believers acknowledge Jesus' divine nature and messianic role. This phrase connects to other scriptures, such as John 1:12, which speaks of receiving power to become children of God through belief in His name.

so that you may know
John emphasizes assurance of salvation. The Greek word for "know" (ginosko) implies a deep, experiential knowledge. This assurance counters the uncertainty propagated by false teachers. The certainty of eternal life is a recurring theme in John's writings, providing comfort and confidence to believers.

that you have eternal life
Eternal life is a present possession for believers, not just a future promise. It signifies a quality of life that begins now and continues forever, characterized by a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. This concept is rooted in Jesus' teachings, such as in John 17:3, where eternal life is defined as knowing the only true God and Jesus Christ. The assurance of eternal life is a cornerstone of Christian hope, affirming the believer's secure position in Christ.

And this is the confidence that we have before Him:
The term "confidence" in this context refers to the boldness and assurance believers possess in their relationship with God. This confidence is rooted in the believer's faith and the work of Jesus Christ, who provides access to the Father (Hebrews 4:16). The phrase "before Him" emphasizes the personal and direct relationship believers have with God, reminiscent of the access granted to the high priest in the Holy of Holies, now available to all through Christ's sacrifice (Hebrews 10:19-22).

If we ask anything according to His will,
This phrase underscores the importance of aligning one's prayers with God's will. The concept of God's will is central to biblical teaching, as seen in the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:10) and Jesus' submission to the Father's will in Gethsemane (Luke 22:42). Praying according to God's will involves understanding His character and purposes as revealed in Scripture, ensuring that requests are in harmony with His divine plan.

He hears us.
The assurance that God hears prayers is a recurring theme in Scripture, providing comfort and encouragement to believers (Psalm 34:17, 1 Peter 3:12). This hearing implies not just auditory reception but an attentive and responsive engagement from God. The confidence that God hears is based on His faithfulness and the believer's relationship with Him through Christ, who intercedes on their behalf (Romans 8:34).

And if we know that He hears us
This phrase emphasizes the assurance believers have in their relationship with God. The confidence in God's attentiveness is rooted in the understanding of His omniscience and omnipresence. In the context of 1 John, this assurance is tied to the believer's faith and obedience (1 John 3:21-22). The concept of God hearing His people is a recurring theme in Scripture, seen in passages like Psalm 34:17 and 1 Peter 3:12, which affirm that the Lord is attentive to the prayers of the righteous.

in whatever we ask
This phrase highlights the breadth of God's willingness to hear the prayers of His children. It reflects the teaching of Jesus in John 14:13-14, where He promises that whatever is asked in His name will be done. The cultural context of the early church, which faced persecution and hardship, underscores the importance of this promise. It is not a blanket promise for any request but is understood within the framework of God's will and purpose, as seen in 1 John 5:14.

we know that we already possess
This statement of certainty reflects the biblical principle of faith as described in Hebrews 11:1, where faith is the assurance of things hoped for. The use of the present tense "already possess" indicates the believer's confidence in God's faithfulness to fulfill His promises. This assurance is not based on visible evidence but on trust in God's character and His past faithfulness, as seen throughout biblical history.

what we have asked of Him
This final phrase ties the promise of answered prayer to the condition of asking according to God's will. It echoes the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 7:7-11, where He encourages believers to ask, seek, and knock, with the assurance that God, as a loving Father, will give good gifts to His children. The historical context of the early church, which relied heavily on prayer for guidance and provision, reinforces the importance of this promise. Theologically, it points to the believer's relationship with God as one of trust and dependence, recognizing that God knows and provides what is best for His children.

If anyone sees his brother committing a sin not leading to death
This phrase addresses the responsibility of believers to intercede for one another. The term "brother" indicates a fellow believer, emphasizing the communal nature of the early Christian church. The concept of "sin not leading to death" suggests that not all sins have the same spiritual consequences. In the Jewish context, certain sins required different atonements, reflecting varying degrees of severity. This distinction may also echo Jesus' teachings on forgiveness and reconciliation (Matthew 18:15-17).

he should ask God, who will give life to those who commit this kind of sin
The act of asking God underscores the power of intercessory prayer. The promise that God "will give life" highlights the restorative nature of God's grace. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of repentance and forgiveness, as seen in passages like James 5:15-16, where prayer is linked to healing and restoration. The assurance of life suggests spiritual renewal and the maintenance of fellowship with God.

There is a sin that leads to death
This phrase introduces a more severe category of sin. The "sin that leads to death" has been interpreted in various ways, including apostasy, blasphemy against the Holy Spirit (Mark 3:29), or persistent, unrepentant sin. In the historical context, this could refer to a deliberate rejection of the faith, which was a serious concern for the early church facing persecution and heretical teachings.

I am not saying he should ask regarding that sin
Here, the author advises against praying for those committing the "sin that leads to death." This may reflect an understanding that certain actions place individuals beyond the reach of intercessory prayer, possibly due to their hardened hearts or willful rejection of God's grace. This echoes the warnings found in Hebrews 6:4-6 about the impossibility of restoring those who have fallen away after having received the truth.

All unrighteousness is sin
This phrase emphasizes the comprehensive nature of sin, aligning with the biblical teaching that any deviation from God's perfect standard is considered sin. In the context of 1 John, the apostle is addressing a community dealing with false teachings and moral confusion. The term "unrighteousness" here can be understood as any action, thought, or attitude that is contrary to God's character and law. This echoes the broader biblical narrative, such as in Romans 3:23, which states that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. The concept of sin is rooted in the Old Testament, where the law given to Israel defined righteousness and unrighteousness. The universality of sin underscores the need for a savior, pointing to Jesus Christ, who fulfills the law and offers redemption.

yet there is sin that does not lead to death
This part of the verse introduces a distinction between types of sin, which has been a topic of theological discussion. In the immediate context, John may be referring to sins that do not result in spiritual death or eternal separation from God. This could be understood in light of the Jewish distinction between intentional and unintentional sins, as seen in Leviticus. The "sin that does not lead to death" might refer to sins that are confessed and repented of, aligning with 1 John 1:9, which assures forgiveness for confessed sins. Historically, the early church grappled with understanding the severity of different sins, leading to the development of concepts like mortal and venial sins in later Christian theology. This phrase also highlights the mercy and grace available through Christ, who intercedes for believers, as seen in Hebrews 7:25.

We know that anyone born of God does not keep on sinning;
This phrase emphasizes the transformative power of spiritual rebirth. In the context of 1 John, being "born of God" refers to a spiritual regeneration through faith in Jesus Christ. This transformation results in a new nature that resists habitual sin. The Greek term used here suggests a continuous action, indicating that a true believer does not persist in a lifestyle of sin. This aligns with Paul's teachings in Romans 6:1-2, where he argues that those who have died to sin should not live in it any longer. The concept of being "born of God" also connects to Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus in John 3:3-7, where He speaks of being born again to see the kingdom of God.

the One who was born of God protects him,
This phrase refers to Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, who provides protection for believers. The protection mentioned here is spiritual, safeguarding the believer's soul and eternal destiny. This echoes Jesus' prayer in John 17:12, where He speaks of keeping His disciples safe. The imagery of protection is also found in Psalm 121:7, which assures that the Lord will keep believers from all harm. Theologically, this protection is understood as part of the believer's assurance of salvation, a theme prevalent in the New Testament.

and the evil one cannot touch him.
The "evil one" is a reference to Satan, the adversary of God and His people. The assurance that Satan cannot "touch" the believer suggests a limitation on his power over those who are in Christ. This is consistent with the promise in James 4:7, which states that if believers resist the devil, he will flee from them. The term "touch" implies a harmful grasp or influence, indicating that while Satan may tempt or accuse, he cannot ultimately harm the believer's standing before God. This protection is a result of the believer's union with Christ, as seen in Ephesians 6:10-18, where the armor of God is described as a means of standing firm against the devil's schemes.

We know that we are of God
This phrase emphasizes the assurance of believers' identity and relationship with God. The use of "we know" reflects a confident understanding, rooted in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. This assurance is a recurring theme in John's writings, as seen in 1 John 3:1-2, where believers are called "children of God." The phrase "of God" signifies belonging and origin, indicating that believers are born of God (John 1:12-13) and are part of His family. This identity is not based on human effort but on divine grace and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:16).

and that the whole world is under the power of the evil one
This part of the verse contrasts the state of believers with that of the world. The "whole world" refers to the system of human society that is in opposition to God, often characterized by sin and rebellion. The "evil one" is a reference to Satan, who is depicted in Scripture as the ruler of this world (John 12:31, 2 Corinthians 4:4). This phrase highlights the spiritual battle between the kingdom of God and the forces of darkness. It echoes the biblical narrative of the fall in Genesis 3, where Satan's influence began to corrupt creation. Despite this, believers are called to live in the world but not be of it (John 17:14-16), relying on God's power to overcome evil (Ephesians 6:10-18). The ultimate victory over the evil one is assured through Jesus Christ, who has already defeated him through His death and resurrection (Colossians 2:15, Revelation 12:10-11).

And we know that the Son of God has come
This phrase affirms the incarnation of Jesus Christ, a central tenet of Christian faith. The coming of the Son of God is a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies such as Isaiah 7:14 and Micah 5:2, which foretold the birth of a Savior. The historical context of this statement is rooted in the first-century Jewish expectation of a Messiah. The use of "we know" emphasizes the certainty and assurance of the believers' faith in the reality of Christ's incarnation.

and has given us understanding
This refers to the spiritual enlightenment that believers receive through the Holy Spirit. In John 16:13, Jesus promised that the Spirit of truth would guide believers into all truth. This understanding is not merely intellectual but involves a deep, relational knowledge of God. It contrasts with the Gnostic belief prevalent at the time, which claimed secret knowledge as the path to salvation.

so that we may know Him who is true
The phrase points to a personal and experiential knowledge of God, who is the ultimate truth. This echoes Jesus' declaration in John 14:6, where He states, "I am the way, the truth, and the life." The cultural context here challenges the relativistic views of truth in the Greco-Roman world, affirming the absolute truth found in God alone.

and we are in Him who is true
This indicates a union with God through Jesus Christ, a theme prevalent in the writings of John. In John 15:4, Jesus speaks of abiding in Him as a branch abides in the vine. This union is both spiritual and covenantal, reflecting the intimate relationship between God and His people, as seen in the covenantal language of the Old Testament.

in His Son Jesus Christ
This phrase identifies Jesus as the Son of God, affirming His divine nature and unique relationship with the Father. It underscores the Christian belief in the Trinity, where Jesus is distinct yet one with the Father. The historical context includes the early church's struggle against heresies that denied the divinity of Christ, such as Arianism.

He is the true God and eternal life
This is a profound declaration of the deity of Christ, equating Him with God. It aligns with John 1:1, which states, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." The phrase "eternal life" is a key theme in John's writings, emphasizing not just the duration but the quality of life found in a relationship with Jesus. This eternal life is a present reality for believers, as well as a future hope.

Little children
This phrase is a term of endearment used by the Apostle John, reflecting his pastoral care and authority. It indicates a close, familial relationship between John and his readers, suggesting a spiritual maturity on his part and a need for guidance on theirs. The use of "little children" is consistent with John's style throughout his epistles, emphasizing the intimate and nurturing nature of the Christian community. This term also reflects the early church's understanding of believers as part of God's family, echoing Jesus' own use of familial language in passages like John 13:33.

keep yourselves
The imperative "keep" suggests vigilance and active effort. It implies that believers have a responsibility to guard their hearts and minds against spiritual dangers. This echoes the biblical theme of watchfulness found in passages like 1 Peter 5:8, where believers are urged to be sober-minded and alert. The phrase underscores the necessity of personal responsibility in the Christian life, aligning with the broader biblical teaching on sanctification and the believer's role in maintaining purity and devotion to God.

from idols
In the historical and cultural context of the first-century Greco-Roman world, idolatry was prevalent, with numerous gods and goddesses worshipped through physical statues and images. John's warning against idols is both literal and metaphorical. Literally, it cautions against the worship of physical idols, which was a common temptation for early Christians living in a polytheistic society. Metaphorically, it extends to anything that takes the place of God in one's heart, such as wealth, power, or even ideologies. This warning is consistent with the first commandment in Exodus 20:3 and reflects the biblical theme of exclusive devotion to God. The admonition also connects to the broader biblical narrative of idolatry as spiritual adultery, as seen in the prophetic writings like Hosea.