1 John 1:5
Verse
Context
Walking in the Light
4We write these things so that our joy may be complete.5And this is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you: God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all.6If we say we have fellowship with Him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.
Sermons
A.W. Tozer
Stephen Kaung
J. Edwin Orr
Paul WasherStephen Kaung
Oswald J. Smith
Zac PoonenSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
This then is the message - This is the grand principle on which all depends, which we have heard of απ' αυτου, From him; for neither Moses nor the prophets ever gave that full instruction concerning God and communion with him which Jesus Christ has given, for the only-begotten Son, who was in the bosom of the Father, has alone declared the fullness of the truth, and the extent of the blessings, which believers on him are to receive. See Joh 1:18. God is light - The source of wisdom, knowledge, holiness, and happiness; and in him is no darkness at all - no ignorance, no imperfection, no sinfulness, no misery. And from him wisdom, knowledge, holiness, and happiness are received by every believing soul. This is the grand message of the Gospel, the great principle on which the happiness of man depends. Light implies every essential excellence, especially wisdom, holiness, and happiness. Darkness implies all imperfection, and principally ignorance, sinfulness, and misery. Light is the purest, the most subtile, the most useful, and the most diffusive of all God's creatures; it is, therefore, a very proper emblem of the purity, perfection, and goodness of the Divine nature. God is to human soul, what the light is to the world; without the latter all would be dismal and uncomfortable, and terror and death would universally prevail: and without an indwelling God what is religion? Without his all-penetrating and diffusive light, what is the soul of man? Religion would be an empty science, a dead letter, a system unauthoritated and uninfluencing, and the soul a trackless wilderness, a howling waste, full of evil, of terror and dismay, and ever racked with realizing anticipations of future, successive, permanent, substantial, and endless misery. No wonder the apostle lays this down as a first and grand principle, stating it to be the essential message which he had received from Christ to deliver to the world.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
First division of the body of the Epistle (compare Introduction). declare--Greek, "announce"; report in turn; a different Greek word from Jo1 1:3. As the Son announced the message heard from the Father as His apostle, so the Son's apostles announce what they have heard from the Son. John nowhere uses the term "Gospel"; but the witness or testimony, the word, the truth, and here the message. God is light--What light is in the natural world, that God, the source of even material light, is in the spiritual, the fountain of wisdom, purity, beauty, joy, and glory. As all material life and growth depends on light, so all spiritual life and growth depends on GOD. As God here, so Christ, in Jo1 2:8, is called "the true light." no darkness at all--strong negation; Greek, "No, not even one speck of darkness"; no ignorance, error, untruthfulness, sin, or death. John heard this from Christ, not only in express words, but in His acted words, namely, His is whole manifestation in the flesh as "the brightness of the Father's glory." Christ Himself was the embodiment of "the message," representing fully in all His sayings, doings, and sufferings, Him who is LIGHT.
John Gill Bible Commentary
This then is the message,.... Of God by his Son the Word, or from Christ by his apostles. The Syriac version renders it, "this is the Gospel"; which is good news from a far country, a message sent from the King of kings to sinful men: or this is the annunciation, or declaration; that is, the thing declared, or showed. Some render it, "this is the promise", that whereas God is light, such who walk in the light shall have communion with him, and others shall not: which we have heard of him; of Christ, who has declared him, that he is light without any mixture of darkness; that is a pure Spirit, and must be worshipped in a spiritual way; and that only spiritual worshippers are such as he seeks, and admits to communion with him. Moreover, they might hear and learn this of Christ, by his telling them that he himself was light, who is the image of the invisible God, insomuch, that he that has seen the Son, has seen the Father also. Wherefore, if the one is light, the other must be likewise; nor is there any coming to the Father, and enjoying communion with him, but through Christ; all which our Lord told his disciples. The Ethiopic version reads, "which ye have heard", very wrongly; for the words regard the apostles, who made a faithful declaration of the message they heard, and had from Christ, which is as follows: and declare unto you that God is light; that is, God the Father, as distinguished from "him", Christ, of whom they had heard this message, and from Jesus Christ his Son, Jo1 1:7, what is declared of him, agreeably to the report of Christ, is, that he is "light"; that is, as light is opposed to the darkness of sin; he is pure and holy in his nature and works, and of such pure eyes as not to behold iniquity; and so perfectly holy, that angels cover their times before him, when they speak of his holiness: and as light is opposed to the darkness of ignorance, he is wise and knowing; he knows himself, his own nature, being, and perfections, his Son and Spirit, and their distinct modes of subsisting; he sees clearly all things in himself, all things he could do, or has determined shall be done; he has perfect knowledge of all creatures and things, and the darkness and the light are alike unto him, nor can the former hide from him: he is knowable, and to be discerned; he is clothed with light, and dwells in it; he may be known by the works of creation and providence; even the invisible things of him, his eternal power and Godhead, may be clearly seen and understood by them, and especially in his word, and most clearly in his Son; it is owing to the darkness of men, and not to any in and about God, who is light, that he is so little known as he is: and, like the light, he illuminates others; he is the Father of lights, the author and giver of all light; of the light of reason to men in general; and of grace here, and glory hereafter, to his own people, which are both signified by light; in whose light they see light; and he refreshes and delights their souls with the light of his countenance now, and with his glorious presence in the other world: and in him is no darkness at all; no darkness of sin; nothing is more contrary to him, or more distant from him: nor any darkness of error and ignorance; what is unknown to men, as the times and seasons; what angels were ignorant of, and even Christ, as man, as the day and hour of Jerusalem's destruction, were known to the Father; in him is no ignorance of anything whatever; nor is there any variableness or shadow of turning in him, as there is in the luminous body of the sun; but God is always the same pure and holy, wise and knowing Being. It is usual with the Cabalistic Jews (e), to call the supreme Being light the most simple light, hidden light, and infinite light, with respect to his nature, glory, and majesty, and with regard also to his grace and mercy, justice and judgment; though, as R. Sangart says (f), this is to be understood of him figuratively. (e) Lex. Cabalist, p. 63, 64. (f) Sepher Cosri, par. 2. sect. 2. fol. 61. 2.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The apostle, having declared the truth and dignity of the author of the gospel, brings a message or report from him, from which a just conclusion is to be drawn for the consideration and conviction of the professors of religion, or professed entertainers of this glorious gospel. I. Here is the message or report that the apostle avers to come from the Lord Jesus: This then is the message which we have heard of him (Jo1 1:5), of his Son Jesus Christ. As he was the immediate sender of the apostles, so he is the principal person spoken of in the preceding context, and the next antecedent also to whom the pronoun him can relate. The apostles and apostolical ministers are the messengers of the Lord Jesus; it is their honour, the chief they pretend to, to bring his mind and messages to the world and to the churches. This is the wisdom and present dispensation of the Lord Jesus, to send his messages to us by persons like ourselves. He that put on human nature will honour earthen vessels. It was the ambition of the apostles to be found faithful, and faithfully to deliver the errands and messages they had received. What was communicated to them they were solicitous to impart: This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you. A message from the Word of life, from the eternal Word, we should gladly receive: and the present one is this (relating to the nature of God whom we are to serve, and with whom we should covet all indulged communion) - That God is light, and in him is no darkness at all, Jo1 1:5. This report asserts the excellency of the divine nature. He is all that beauty and perfection that can be represented to us by light. He is a self-active uncompounded spirituality, purity, wisdom, holiness, and glory. And then the absoluteness and fulness of that excellency and perfection. There is no defect or imperfection, no mixture of any thing alien or contrary to absolute excellency, no mutability nor capacity of any decay in him: In him is no darkness at all, Jo1 1:5. Or this report may more immediately relate to what is usually called the moral perfection of the divine nature, what we are to imitate, or what is more directly to influence us in our gospel work. And so it will comprehend the holiness of God, the absolute purity of his nature and will, his penetrative knowledge (particularly of hearts), his jealousy and injustice, which burn a a most bright and vehement flame. It is meet that to this dark world the great God should be represented as pure and perfect light. It is the Lord Jesus that best of all opens to us the name and nature of the unsearchable God: The only-begotten, who is in the bosom of the Father, the same hath declared him. It is the prerogative of the Christian revelation to bring us the most noble, the most august and agreeable account of the blessed God, such as is most suitable to the light of reason and what is demonstrable thereby, most suitable to the magnificence of his works round about us, and to the nature and office of him that is the supreme administrator, governor, and judge of the world. What more (relating to and comprehensive of all such perfection) could be included in one word than in this, God is light, and in him is no darkness at all? Then, II. There is a just conclusion to be drawn from this message and report, and that for the consideration and conviction of professors of religion, or professed entertainers of this gospel. This conclusion issues into two branches: - 1. For the conviction of such professors as have no true fellowship with God: If we say we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth. It is known that to walk, in scripture account, is to order and frame the course and actions of the moral life, that is, of the life so far as it is capable of subjection to the divine law. To walk in darkness is to live and act according to such ignorance, error, and erroneous practice, as are contrary to the fundamental dictates of our holy religion. Now there may be those who may pretend to great attainments and enjoyments in religion; they may profess to have communion with God; and yet their lives may be irreligious, immoral, and impure. To such the apostle would not fear to give the lie: They lie, and do not the truth. They belie God; for he holds no heavenly fellowship or intercourse with unholy souls. What communion hath light with darkness? They belie themselves, or lie concerning themselves; for they have no such communications from God nor accesses to him. There is no truth in their profession nor in their practice, or their practice gives their profession and pretences the lie, and demonstrates the folly and falsehood of them. 2. For the conviction and consequent satisfaction of those that are near to God: But, if we walk in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. As the blessed God is the eternal boundless light, and the Mediator is, from him, the light of the world, so the Christian institution is the great luminary that appears in our sphere, and shines here below. A conformity to this in spirit and practice demonstrates fellowship or communion with God. Those that so walk show that they know God, that they have received of the Spirit of God, and that the divine impress or image is stamped upon their souls. Then we have fellowship one with another, they with us and we with them, and both with God, in his blessed or beatific communications to us. And this is one of those beatific communications to us - that his Son's blood or death is applied or imputed to us: The blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. The eternal life, the eternal Son, hath put on flesh and blood, and so became Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ hath shed his blood for us, or died to wash us from our sins in his own blood. His blood applied to us discharges us from the guilt of all sin, both original and actual, inherent and committed: and so far we stand righteous in his sight; and not only so, but his blood procures for us those sacred influences by which sin is to be subdued more and more, till it is quite abolished, Gal 3:13, Gal 3:14.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:5–2:6 Here John focuses on the first aspect of living in fellowship with God. Living in the light means that the believers will see that they are sinners, but they will also realize that Jesus is their Advocate to make them right with God (see Eph 5:6-13). 1:5 God is light: This light shone through Jesus Christ to all he came in contact with, to expose their sin and to illumine the moral nature and character of God (see John 1:4-5, 9; 3:19-21; 8:12; 9:5; 12:35-36, 46). In the writings of John, “light” represents God’s holiness and revelation. It is the opposite of false teaching and undisciplined living, which is “darkness” (1 Jn 1:6).
1 John 1:5
Walking in the Light
4We write these things so that our joy may be complete.5And this is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you: God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all.6If we say we have fellowship with Him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Theology of Christmas
By A.W. Tozer7.1K42:00ChristmasJHN 1:4JHN 1:9JHN 1:141JN 1:11JN 1:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of waking up in the night to pray. He shares his personal experience of talking to the Lord before getting out of bed most mornings, but sometimes struggling to do so. The speaker then focuses on the message found in 1 John 1:5, which declares that God is light and there is no darkness in Him. He highlights the trustworthiness of God and encourages the audience to put their faith in Him. The sermon concludes by discussing the theology of Christmas and the need to sing theology rather than just songs.
1 John - Grace of Fellowship
By Stephen Kaung4.7K59:04FellowshipMAT 6:33EPH 5:81JN 1:51JN 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of young people knowing and understanding the word of God. He explains that as believers grow in their faith, they will inevitably face conflicts, but they can overcome them because of the strength they receive from the word of God. The preacher also highlights how Satan uses the world to tempt and deceive believers, specifically through the lust of the eye, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life. He then reads from 1 John 1:5-10, emphasizing the need for believers to walk in the light and confess their sins to receive forgiveness and cleansing through the blood of Jesus Christ. The preacher concludes by reminding listeners that spiritual growth is a gradual process and cannot be achieved instantly.
Atonement
By J. Edwin Orr4.1K1:24:25AtonementLEV 5:51JN 1:51JN 1:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of walking in the light and maintaining fellowship with God. He uses the analogy of a father disciplining his son to illustrate how God may withdraw fellowship when we sin, but still cares for us. The speaker highlights the need for confession and forgiveness in order to restore fellowship with God. He also emphasizes the importance of being truthful about our fellowship with God and not deceiving ourselves. The sermon is based on the message that God is light and in Him there is no darkness at all.
Biblical Assurance 1 - Austin, Tx
By Paul Washer4.1K43:16AssuranceMAT 6:33ROM 8:92CO 13:5GAL 5:22JAS 2:171JN 1:51JN 2:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the true nature of God and His will. He criticizes the reduction of Christianity to a few principles and a prayer for personal gain. The speaker highlights that God is not a hidden or distant deity, but has revealed Himself and His desires to humanity. The sermon also introduces the concept of tests in Scripture, with the first test being discussed at the end of the transcript.
1 John - Ground of Fellowship
By Stephen Kaung3.6K1:00:36MAT 3:1JHN 1:29JHN 1:381JN 1:51JN 2:291JN 4:71JN 5:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that we are currently living in the last days, which are characterized by difficult times and a lack of love for God. The speaker also highlights the danger of false teachings and the temptation of the world that the church faced during the time this letter was written. The central theme of the letter is fellowship, and the speaker divides it into three parts: an introduction that lays the ground of fellowship, the condition or practice of fellowship, and the importance and value of fellowship. The apostle John, in his closing years, prioritized sharing this central and precious message with the church.
Thanks Be to God for His Gift of Salvation
By Oswald J. Smith3.5K53:57Free GiftJHN 1:51JN 1:51JN 1:7The video mentioned in the sermon transcript is titled "Disaster" and tells the story of a young man who was born blind. Despite his blindness, he is able to overcome his challenges and engage in activities such as waterskiing, cycling, and playing basketball. The video highlights his journey of faith and how he is now serving in full-time Christian ministry. The film aims to inspire and encourage viewers, especially those facing tragedies or difficulties in their own lives.
(Genesis) - Part 2
By Zac Poonen2.0K1:00:04GenesisGEN 1:4PSA 119:130MAT 6:33JHN 1:12CO 6:14HEB 5:141JN 1:5In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of God's declaration that His creation is good. He points out that there is one day in the creation account where God does not say it is good, which is the end of the second day. The speaker then highlights the first message given by the Apostle John, which emphasizes that God is light and there is no darkness in Him. The sermon also emphasizes the theme of separation between light and darkness, both in the physical creation and in the spiritual realm.
Christ in Us - Part 1
By Norman Grubb2.0K48:27GEN 1:26JHN 8:12JHN 15:51CO 3:16EPH 2:10COL 1:27TIT 1:2HEB 6:18HEB 12:291JN 1:5
This sermon delves into the concept of God's nature as a person of love and light, emphasizing the transformation from being self-focused to becoming a vessel for God's love and blessings. It explores the idea of God as a consuming fire that turns into light, symbolizing the shift from self-centeredness to selflessness. The speaker reflects on the importance of being a complete vessel for God to dwell in, acknowledging the need for personal transformation to align with God's character of love and truth.
The Three Hours' Darkness
By C.H. Spurgeon2.0K50:23PSA 30:5PSA 119:105ISA 9:2MAT 27:45JHN 8:12JHN 12:461JN 1:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of Jesus speaking to bring light to dark hearts. He highlights the significance of Jesus' cry of abandonment on the cross, stating that it should be the end of our grief and bring heavenly mourning to our minds. Despite the speaker's physical pain, he believes that God can still bless his feeble words and make the darkness meaningful to us. The sermon concludes by discussing the sympathy of nature with Jesus, stating that all lights are dim without him and that the darkness surrounding his death holds deep meaning and instruction for believers.
Light Rejected! Light Neglected! Light Reflected!
By Keith Daniel1.9K1:18:01Rebellion Of ManMAT 22:9MRK 16:15JHN 1:9JHN 3:162PE 1:81JN 1:5REV 14:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of believing every word in the Bible and warns against denying its truth. He warns that those who deny God's word will face severe judgment. The preacher also highlights the urgency of repentance and the need to be prepared for the return of Jesus. He uses the parable of the wedding feast to illustrate the consequences of not being clothed in the righteousness of Christ. The sermon emphasizes the importance of walking in the light and surrendering to God's will, while acknowledging that believers are not yet perfected but are continually cleansed by the blood of Jesus.
K-474 the Mercy Seat of God
By Art Katz1.8K50:46Mercy SeatGEN 2:24EXO 25:17PSA 85:10MAT 6:33EPH 2:14HEB 13:81JN 1:5In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the lack of penmanship exercises in today's society and the instant gratification culture we live in. He expresses his concern about the superficiality of some sermons and the need for a deeper, more holy approach to preaching. The speaker highlights various contradictions and paradoxes in life and emphasizes the importance of coming into a place prepared by the blood of God's Son. He urges the audience to wait upon the Lord in the holiest place and seek the ultimate union of truth and mercy.
(1 John #4) Since God Is Light
By J. Glyn Owen1.7K29:42God's HolinessLEV 11:44MAT 5:14MAT 5:48JHN 1:51PE 1:161JN 1:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the message of Jesus Christ, which was taught by Him and received by the apostles. The preacher highlights that Jesus is not just the gentle and meek figure often portrayed, but also the Son of God and the source of the message of God's holiness. The preacher explains that fellowship with God can only be achieved through His holiness, and that growing spiritually involves relating our lives to His holiness. The sermon also touches on the concept of God's love, life, and His consuming fire, and raises questions about the necessity of repentance and being born again.
This Is the Message
By T. Austin-Sparks1.7K54:56MessageMAT 6:33JHN 20:301JN 1:51JN 2:251JN 3:231JN 5:9In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of life in relation to the teachings and works of Jesus Christ. The speaker emphasizes that the purpose of Jesus' actions and teachings was to bring about life, and that this is the crucial test of our own relationship with Him. The speaker references the Gospel of John, particularly chapter 20, where John sums up his writings by emphasizing the issue of life. The speaker also highlights that true Christianity involves a battle, as believers are engaged in a conflict when they enter into a living and enlightened relationship with Jesus.
(Divine Attributes) 10 the Awesome Knowledge of the Holy
By Denny Kenaston1.6K59:57Character Of GodISA 1:13ISA 6:3MAT 5:4HEB 1:91PE 2:91JN 1:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of God's holiness and its importance in understanding His mercy and love. He emphasizes that God's holiness is awe-inspiring and sets Him apart from anyone else. The preacher describes a scene from the Bible where angels, who are pure and holy themselves, humble themselves in the presence of the Lord by covering their faces and feet. This act of humility demonstrates the principle that all glory veils itself in the presence of God's glory.
Building on Basics
By Colin Anderson1.5K47:27Spiritual GrowthPSA 92:10PRO 9:101JN 1:51JN 2:151JN 3:41JN 3:8REV 2:18In this sermon, the speaker discusses a situation where his son had to appeal to his superiors due to problems with an essay. The speaker questions whether anyone in the school is concerned about ethics and righteousness. He emphasizes the need for repentance and confessing sins to have forgiveness and cleansing. The speaker also references the Apostle John's clear statements about sin and righteousness, urging the audience to live in a black and white world where moral issues are precise and clear.
Mind the Light
By Erlo Stegen1.4K1:00:15Light Of GodEXO 33:20ISA 6:1MAT 4:16ROM 13:11EPH 5:11EPH 5:141JN 1:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of examining one's own life and the impact they have on others. He urges listeners to consider whether they are living according to the Bible and if they are shining the light of God's holiness in the world. The preacher acknowledges the darkness and immorality present in the world but encourages believers to be lighthouses and spread the gospel. He shares a personal experience of a powerful repentance moment and highlights the urgency of repentance and turning away from sin. The sermon also touches on the issue of people not listening and falling asleep in church, leading to spiritual death. The preacher warns against the influence of false teachings, such as the denial of hell, and emphasizes the richness of Africa, not in material wealth but in spiritual potential.
Come Live Die
By George Verwer1.3K27:00Death To SelfMAT 6:33ROM 12:91CO 11:1HEB 5:121JN 1:51JN 2:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of hating sin and embracing goodness according to the teachings of the Bible. He highlights the moral confusion in society, citing examples of a murder being condemned while a person is killed for a pornographic film. The preacher emphasizes the urgency of spreading the gospel before it's too late. He also addresses the individual responsibility in following God's teachings, warning against pretension, neglect of discipline, and the danger of leading a double life. The sermon concludes with a personal anecdote about the impact of repentance and the need to be ready for the challenge of world mission.
How Our Joy Can Be Full - Part 1
By Zac Poonen1.3K09:00JHN 17:31JN 1:11JN 1:51JN 2:151JN 4:71JN 5:41JN 5:20
This sermon focuses on the significance of the first letter of John in the New Testament, emphasizing its importance due to being written by John at the age of 95 after years of observing various churches and believers. Despite the prevalent confusion in Christendom, John's message remains relevant, highlighting the deep truths of life and fellowship with God. He stresses the eternal life found in Jesus Christ and warns against idolatry, urging believers to guard themselves from worshiping anything other than the true God.
Maintaining Our Walk
By Manley Beasley1.1K35:02Devotional LifeMAT 6:331JN 1:51JN 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of giving 100% to God rather than just 90%. He shares a story of a man who initially came to Jesus and got saved, but then realized he had been sinning by stealing. The preacher highlights that people's growth in faith depends on the measure of life they bring to Jesus. He also mentions the need for believers to recognize and repent of their sins, such as stealing from God. The sermon concludes with a mention of the preacher's interaction with a woman named Iris, who had spent time in prison but had a strong faith in God.
A Light in the Darkness
By Ian Paisley1.1K55:25PSA 27:1PSA 112:4ISA 42:16JHN 1:5JHN 8:122CO 4:6EPH 5:81JN 1:5
This sermon emphasizes the theme of light in the darkness, highlighting the struggles faced by the upright, the dangers of apostasy, and the need for God's intervention and guidance. It traces historical events where God's light shone in times of darkness, leading to victories and the preservation of truth. The speaker reflects on the formation of the Free Presbyterian Church amidst opposition, celebrating God's faithfulness and the ongoing battle against apostasy.
Reflect the Light of the Son
By Arno Stegen1.0K1:01:53Son Of GodMAT 5:16MAT 12:36EPH 5:3EPH 5:8EPH 5:201JN 1:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of walking in the light and avoiding the works of darkness. He shares a story of a man who was converted and became a preacher of the gospel. The preacher also discusses the prevalence of silly talk and coarse jesting in society and how it goes against the teachings of the Bible. He highlights the need to be connected to God, who is always close by and a source of light. Additionally, the preacher mentions the decline of church attendance in some countries and the need to bring the gospel to far away nations.
Win Your Loved Ones
By John R. Rice95558:38Lost SoulsISA 60:1MAT 5:14LUK 19:10JHN 8:12ROM 13:12EPH 5:81JN 1:5In this sermon, the preacher encourages the congregation to fill up the empty seats in the church. He emphasizes the importance of singing with passion and intensity, with the chords standing out on their necks and their eyes bugging out. The preacher also emphasizes the need to share the message of Christ's love and salvation with others. He reminds the congregation that Jesus is the light of the world and that they have the responsibility to be a light for the lost to see. The sermon concludes with a call to worship and praise God, acknowledging His glory and the eternal life that believers have in Him.
The Cross-Centered Life Q&a 5
By Paul Washer9281:11:00Cross of Christ1JN 1:51JN 2:31JN 5:13In this sermon, Paul Washer discusses the concept of a continuous style of life in relation to being a Christian. He uses the analogy of someone trying to prove that he is a sinner by capturing a single moment of him kicking a cat. Washer explains that true conversion involves a transformative experience where one sees God's holiness, recognizes their own sin, and receives God's grace through Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that a single act of sin does not define a person's style of life, but rather it is the consistent pattern of their actions over time. Washer also references the book of 1 John, highlighting the tests of true faith outlined in the passage.
Studies in 1 John 01 Australia Conference
By William W. Campbell9241:14:17JHN 1:51JN 1:51JN 2:8In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the topic of walking in the light as mentioned in John's first epistle. He emphasizes the importance of living in obedience to God's commandments and keeping His word. The preacher shares a personal story about a church for deaf and dumb people, highlighting the need for preaching in a way that reaches all individuals. He also mentions the concept of personal assurance and how our obedience to God's commandments not only affects our own faith but also influences others who observe us.
Life in the Realm of Forgiveness
By Don Johnson9101:04:02PRO 14:12MAT 6:14JHN 3:191JN 1:51JN 1:9
This sermon focuses on the theme of 'Life in the Realm of Forgiveness' based on passages from 1 John, Psalms, and Micah. It emphasizes the richness and depth of forgiveness, the need for confession, and the continuous cleansing available through Christ's sacrifice. The sermon highlights the believer's condition in the light, the struggle with sin, the advantage of living in forgiveness, and the importance of extending forgiveness to others.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
This then is the message - This is the grand principle on which all depends, which we have heard of απ' αυτου, From him; for neither Moses nor the prophets ever gave that full instruction concerning God and communion with him which Jesus Christ has given, for the only-begotten Son, who was in the bosom of the Father, has alone declared the fullness of the truth, and the extent of the blessings, which believers on him are to receive. See Joh 1:18. God is light - The source of wisdom, knowledge, holiness, and happiness; and in him is no darkness at all - no ignorance, no imperfection, no sinfulness, no misery. And from him wisdom, knowledge, holiness, and happiness are received by every believing soul. This is the grand message of the Gospel, the great principle on which the happiness of man depends. Light implies every essential excellence, especially wisdom, holiness, and happiness. Darkness implies all imperfection, and principally ignorance, sinfulness, and misery. Light is the purest, the most subtile, the most useful, and the most diffusive of all God's creatures; it is, therefore, a very proper emblem of the purity, perfection, and goodness of the Divine nature. God is to human soul, what the light is to the world; without the latter all would be dismal and uncomfortable, and terror and death would universally prevail: and without an indwelling God what is religion? Without his all-penetrating and diffusive light, what is the soul of man? Religion would be an empty science, a dead letter, a system unauthoritated and uninfluencing, and the soul a trackless wilderness, a howling waste, full of evil, of terror and dismay, and ever racked with realizing anticipations of future, successive, permanent, substantial, and endless misery. No wonder the apostle lays this down as a first and grand principle, stating it to be the essential message which he had received from Christ to deliver to the world.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
First division of the body of the Epistle (compare Introduction). declare--Greek, "announce"; report in turn; a different Greek word from Jo1 1:3. As the Son announced the message heard from the Father as His apostle, so the Son's apostles announce what they have heard from the Son. John nowhere uses the term "Gospel"; but the witness or testimony, the word, the truth, and here the message. God is light--What light is in the natural world, that God, the source of even material light, is in the spiritual, the fountain of wisdom, purity, beauty, joy, and glory. As all material life and growth depends on light, so all spiritual life and growth depends on GOD. As God here, so Christ, in Jo1 2:8, is called "the true light." no darkness at all--strong negation; Greek, "No, not even one speck of darkness"; no ignorance, error, untruthfulness, sin, or death. John heard this from Christ, not only in express words, but in His acted words, namely, His is whole manifestation in the flesh as "the brightness of the Father's glory." Christ Himself was the embodiment of "the message," representing fully in all His sayings, doings, and sufferings, Him who is LIGHT.
John Gill Bible Commentary
This then is the message,.... Of God by his Son the Word, or from Christ by his apostles. The Syriac version renders it, "this is the Gospel"; which is good news from a far country, a message sent from the King of kings to sinful men: or this is the annunciation, or declaration; that is, the thing declared, or showed. Some render it, "this is the promise", that whereas God is light, such who walk in the light shall have communion with him, and others shall not: which we have heard of him; of Christ, who has declared him, that he is light without any mixture of darkness; that is a pure Spirit, and must be worshipped in a spiritual way; and that only spiritual worshippers are such as he seeks, and admits to communion with him. Moreover, they might hear and learn this of Christ, by his telling them that he himself was light, who is the image of the invisible God, insomuch, that he that has seen the Son, has seen the Father also. Wherefore, if the one is light, the other must be likewise; nor is there any coming to the Father, and enjoying communion with him, but through Christ; all which our Lord told his disciples. The Ethiopic version reads, "which ye have heard", very wrongly; for the words regard the apostles, who made a faithful declaration of the message they heard, and had from Christ, which is as follows: and declare unto you that God is light; that is, God the Father, as distinguished from "him", Christ, of whom they had heard this message, and from Jesus Christ his Son, Jo1 1:7, what is declared of him, agreeably to the report of Christ, is, that he is "light"; that is, as light is opposed to the darkness of sin; he is pure and holy in his nature and works, and of such pure eyes as not to behold iniquity; and so perfectly holy, that angels cover their times before him, when they speak of his holiness: and as light is opposed to the darkness of ignorance, he is wise and knowing; he knows himself, his own nature, being, and perfections, his Son and Spirit, and their distinct modes of subsisting; he sees clearly all things in himself, all things he could do, or has determined shall be done; he has perfect knowledge of all creatures and things, and the darkness and the light are alike unto him, nor can the former hide from him: he is knowable, and to be discerned; he is clothed with light, and dwells in it; he may be known by the works of creation and providence; even the invisible things of him, his eternal power and Godhead, may be clearly seen and understood by them, and especially in his word, and most clearly in his Son; it is owing to the darkness of men, and not to any in and about God, who is light, that he is so little known as he is: and, like the light, he illuminates others; he is the Father of lights, the author and giver of all light; of the light of reason to men in general; and of grace here, and glory hereafter, to his own people, which are both signified by light; in whose light they see light; and he refreshes and delights their souls with the light of his countenance now, and with his glorious presence in the other world: and in him is no darkness at all; no darkness of sin; nothing is more contrary to him, or more distant from him: nor any darkness of error and ignorance; what is unknown to men, as the times and seasons; what angels were ignorant of, and even Christ, as man, as the day and hour of Jerusalem's destruction, were known to the Father; in him is no ignorance of anything whatever; nor is there any variableness or shadow of turning in him, as there is in the luminous body of the sun; but God is always the same pure and holy, wise and knowing Being. It is usual with the Cabalistic Jews (e), to call the supreme Being light the most simple light, hidden light, and infinite light, with respect to his nature, glory, and majesty, and with regard also to his grace and mercy, justice and judgment; though, as R. Sangart says (f), this is to be understood of him figuratively. (e) Lex. Cabalist, p. 63, 64. (f) Sepher Cosri, par. 2. sect. 2. fol. 61. 2.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The apostle, having declared the truth and dignity of the author of the gospel, brings a message or report from him, from which a just conclusion is to be drawn for the consideration and conviction of the professors of religion, or professed entertainers of this glorious gospel. I. Here is the message or report that the apostle avers to come from the Lord Jesus: This then is the message which we have heard of him (Jo1 1:5), of his Son Jesus Christ. As he was the immediate sender of the apostles, so he is the principal person spoken of in the preceding context, and the next antecedent also to whom the pronoun him can relate. The apostles and apostolical ministers are the messengers of the Lord Jesus; it is their honour, the chief they pretend to, to bring his mind and messages to the world and to the churches. This is the wisdom and present dispensation of the Lord Jesus, to send his messages to us by persons like ourselves. He that put on human nature will honour earthen vessels. It was the ambition of the apostles to be found faithful, and faithfully to deliver the errands and messages they had received. What was communicated to them they were solicitous to impart: This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you. A message from the Word of life, from the eternal Word, we should gladly receive: and the present one is this (relating to the nature of God whom we are to serve, and with whom we should covet all indulged communion) - That God is light, and in him is no darkness at all, Jo1 1:5. This report asserts the excellency of the divine nature. He is all that beauty and perfection that can be represented to us by light. He is a self-active uncompounded spirituality, purity, wisdom, holiness, and glory. And then the absoluteness and fulness of that excellency and perfection. There is no defect or imperfection, no mixture of any thing alien or contrary to absolute excellency, no mutability nor capacity of any decay in him: In him is no darkness at all, Jo1 1:5. Or this report may more immediately relate to what is usually called the moral perfection of the divine nature, what we are to imitate, or what is more directly to influence us in our gospel work. And so it will comprehend the holiness of God, the absolute purity of his nature and will, his penetrative knowledge (particularly of hearts), his jealousy and injustice, which burn a a most bright and vehement flame. It is meet that to this dark world the great God should be represented as pure and perfect light. It is the Lord Jesus that best of all opens to us the name and nature of the unsearchable God: The only-begotten, who is in the bosom of the Father, the same hath declared him. It is the prerogative of the Christian revelation to bring us the most noble, the most august and agreeable account of the blessed God, such as is most suitable to the light of reason and what is demonstrable thereby, most suitable to the magnificence of his works round about us, and to the nature and office of him that is the supreme administrator, governor, and judge of the world. What more (relating to and comprehensive of all such perfection) could be included in one word than in this, God is light, and in him is no darkness at all? Then, II. There is a just conclusion to be drawn from this message and report, and that for the consideration and conviction of professors of religion, or professed entertainers of this gospel. This conclusion issues into two branches: - 1. For the conviction of such professors as have no true fellowship with God: If we say we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth. It is known that to walk, in scripture account, is to order and frame the course and actions of the moral life, that is, of the life so far as it is capable of subjection to the divine law. To walk in darkness is to live and act according to such ignorance, error, and erroneous practice, as are contrary to the fundamental dictates of our holy religion. Now there may be those who may pretend to great attainments and enjoyments in religion; they may profess to have communion with God; and yet their lives may be irreligious, immoral, and impure. To such the apostle would not fear to give the lie: They lie, and do not the truth. They belie God; for he holds no heavenly fellowship or intercourse with unholy souls. What communion hath light with darkness? They belie themselves, or lie concerning themselves; for they have no such communications from God nor accesses to him. There is no truth in their profession nor in their practice, or their practice gives their profession and pretences the lie, and demonstrates the folly and falsehood of them. 2. For the conviction and consequent satisfaction of those that are near to God: But, if we walk in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. As the blessed God is the eternal boundless light, and the Mediator is, from him, the light of the world, so the Christian institution is the great luminary that appears in our sphere, and shines here below. A conformity to this in spirit and practice demonstrates fellowship or communion with God. Those that so walk show that they know God, that they have received of the Spirit of God, and that the divine impress or image is stamped upon their souls. Then we have fellowship one with another, they with us and we with them, and both with God, in his blessed or beatific communications to us. And this is one of those beatific communications to us - that his Son's blood or death is applied or imputed to us: The blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. The eternal life, the eternal Son, hath put on flesh and blood, and so became Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ hath shed his blood for us, or died to wash us from our sins in his own blood. His blood applied to us discharges us from the guilt of all sin, both original and actual, inherent and committed: and so far we stand righteous in his sight; and not only so, but his blood procures for us those sacred influences by which sin is to be subdued more and more, till it is quite abolished, Gal 3:13, Gal 3:14.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:5–2:6 Here John focuses on the first aspect of living in fellowship with God. Living in the light means that the believers will see that they are sinners, but they will also realize that Jesus is their Advocate to make them right with God (see Eph 5:6-13). 1:5 God is light: This light shone through Jesus Christ to all he came in contact with, to expose their sin and to illumine the moral nature and character of God (see John 1:4-5, 9; 3:19-21; 8:12; 9:5; 12:35-36, 46). In the writings of John, “light” represents God’s holiness and revelation. It is the opposite of false teaching and undisciplined living, which is “darkness” (1 Jn 1:6).