1 John 3:10
Verse
Context
Children of God
9Anyone born of God refuses to practice sin, because God’s seed abides in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God.10By this the children of God are distinguished from the children of the devil: Anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is anyone who does not love his brother.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In this the children of God are manifest - Here is a fearful text. Who is a child of the devil? He that commits sin. Who is a child of God? He that works righteousness. By this text we shall stand or fall before God, whatever our particular creed may say to the contrary. Neither he that loveth not his brother - No man is of God who is not ready on all emergencies to do any act of kindness for the comfort, relief, and support of any human being. For, as God made of one blood an the nations of men to dwell upon the face of the whole earth, so all are of one family; and consequently all are brethren, and should love as brethren.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
children of the devil--(See on Jo1 3:8; Act 13:10). There is no middle class between the children of God and the children of the devil. doeth not righteousness--Contrast Jo1 2:29. he that loveth not his brother-- (Jo1 4:8); a particular instance of that love which is the sum and fulfilment of all righteousness, and the token (not loud professions, or even seemingly good works) that distinguishes God's children from the devil's.
John Gill Bible Commentary
In this the children of God are manifest,.... By regenerating grace, and not sinning, in the sense before explained, in consequence of it: adoption is an act of God's grace and sovereign will; it is secret in his own heart, and is secured in divine predestination, and in the covenant of grace, and is antecedent to regeneration: regeneration and faith do not make men the children of God, but manifest them to be so; adoption makes them the children of God, and entitles them to the inheritance; regeneration gives them the nature of the children of God, and makes them meet for it, and manifests their right unto it; not to the men of the world, but to themselves and other saints: and the children of the devil; such as imitate him, do his will and his lusts, and are openly under his power and influence; these are distinguishable from regenerate persons, and the children of God, by their lives and conversations; so the people of the nations of the world are called, "the children of Samael", and the serpent, by the Jews (m), which are with them the names of the devil. Whosoever doth not righteousness is not of God: that is, he does; not appear to be born of God, who does not by faith lay hold on the righteousness of Christ for his justification before God, and acceptance with him; and who does not do works of righteousness in faith from a principle of love, and with a view to the glory of God; for where regenerating grace is, there will be such graces and such practices: neither he that loveth not his brother; for as he that loveth God, and Christ, and the brethren, appears manifestly to be born again, and to have passed from death to life, so he that does not is in darkness, in a state of unregeneracy, and walks and continues therein; for was he born again, he would be taught of God to love the saints; see Jo1 4:7. (m) Raya Mehimna in Zohar in Lev. fol. 34. 2.
1 John 3:10
Children of God
9Anyone born of God refuses to practice sin, because God’s seed abides in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God.10By this the children of God are distinguished from the children of the devil: Anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is anyone who does not love his brother.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Se Pt3 - How Can You Have Assurance?
By Paul Washer3.2K43:14EZK 36:24MAT 7:1MAT 7:16JHN 5:131JN 2:151JN 2:291JN 3:10In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of not loving the world and its desires. He emphasizes that if anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in them. The preacher also discusses the tests of fellowship with God, highlighting the need to walk in the light and not in darkness. He explains that walking in darkness means living in sin and not living by the truth. The sermon concludes with a plea for the listeners to be concerned for their souls and to embrace the grace and freedom found in Christ.
Are You a Christian? - 1 John
By Anton Bosch1.3K47:18JHN 3:161JN 1:71JN 2:31JN 3:101JN 3:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the darkness and sinfulness of the world we live in. However, he assures that if we are truly of the light, the darkness will not overcome us. The preacher emphasizes the importance of having Jesus in our lives, as he is the source of life. He urges believers to not just talk about love, but to demonstrate it through their actions. The preacher also warns against being too focused on worldly things and urges believers to prioritize the things of God.
Marks of True Children of God - Part 3
By William MacDonald1.2K46:28Children Of GodMAT 6:19MAT 23:9JHN 14:15JHN 14:231JN 2:291JN 3:71JN 3:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of translating the word of God into action. Attending religious meetings and conferences is not enough; we must embody the teachings of the Bible in our daily lives. The speaker gives the example of Jesus, who became flesh and dwelt among us, and encourages listeners to let the word become flesh in their own lives. The sermon also highlights the importance of practicing obedience and righteousness, and being known as someone who can be counted on to do what is right.
Studies in 1 Thessalonians 01 Conversion
By Svend Christensen76458:50EXO 38:8MAT 6:33JHN 1:7JHN 1:91JN 1:11JN 3:10In this sermon, the speaker tells a story about a man who asks a young boy to bring him water. The man uses the water to wash his feet before going to remember the Lord in the breaking of bread. However, as the man and others walk back to the village, their feet become covered in dust and leaves. The speaker then shares a conversation he had with a man named Mr. Brown, who claimed to have accepted Jesus as his Savior but then lived in sin for 20 years. The speaker initially doubts Mr. Brown's story but later realizes that just like pigs enjoy wallowing in smelly mud, some people may choose to live in sin despite knowing the truth of the gospel.
I John - We Shall Be Like Him
By Mariano Di Gangi27126:29SanctificationMAT 6:33JHN 1:10PHP 2:121JN 3:11JN 3:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the hope and anticipation of the future destiny that awaits believers. He shares a personal anecdote about being commissioned to paint a mural in a church and the challenges he faced during the process. The speaker then highlights three things that believers know about their future: that Jesus will appear, that there are things about their destiny that are yet to be revealed, and that God always keeps His promises. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the responsibility believers have to purify themselves in preparation for their eventual encounter with Jesus.
1 John 3:10
By John Gill0Evidence of FaithIdentity in ChristJHN 1:12ROM 8:141JN 3:10John Gill emphasizes that the true children of God are revealed through the grace of regeneration, which is a result of God's sovereign will and predestination. He explains that while adoption makes one a child of God, it is regeneration that transforms and manifests this identity, distinguishing believers from those who follow the devil. Gill highlights that those who do not practice righteousness or love their brothers are not truly born of God, as genuine faith produces a life of love and good works. The sermon calls believers to reflect on their lives and relationships as evidence of their regeneration and standing before God.
1 John 4:6
By John Gill0Spiritual DiscernmentIdentity in ChristMAT 7:15JHN 8:47JHN 10:27ROM 8:91CO 2:142CO 11:13EPH 4:301JN 3:101JN 4:11JN 4:6John Gill emphasizes the distinction between those who are of God and those who are not, highlighting that true believers and ministers of the Gospel are chosen and sent by God to proclaim His truth. He explains that those who know God do so through a personal and experiential relationship, which leads them to embrace and act upon His Word. In contrast, those who are not of God lack the ability to understand or accept the Gospel, revealing their unregenerate state. Gill concludes that the ability to discern between the spirit of truth and the spirit of error is evident in the responses of their hearers, as true ministers are recognized and embraced by those who know God. This sermon calls believers to recognize their identity in Christ and the importance of spiritual discernment.
1 John 5:19
By John Gill0Spiritual WarfareIdentity in ChristJHN 1:12JHN 15:19ROM 8:162CO 4:4GAL 5:22EPH 2:2JAS 4:41PE 5:81JN 3:101JN 5:19John Gill emphasizes the distinction between those who are born of God and the rest of the world, which lies in wickedness. He explains that true believers are recognized as children of God through the witness of the Holy Spirit and the evidence of their love for one another. In contrast, the majority of humanity remains unregenerate, ensnared by sin and under the influence of Satan, unable to grasp the promises of righteousness. This stark contrast serves as a reminder of the spiritual battle between good and evil that defines the human experience.
The Children of the Devil, How Expert They Are in Evil
By George Fox0Spiritual WarfareIdentity in ChristGEN 3:6MAT 5:10JHN 15:18ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 5:17EPH 2:1JAS 4:41PE 2:111JN 3:10George Fox emphasizes the stark contrast between the children of the devil and the children of God, highlighting how the former are skilled in deceit and worldly pursuits, while the latter focus on eternal truths and live by faith. He warns that those who are consumed by worldly desires are enemies of Christ, and true followers of Jesus will often face hatred and rejection from the world. Fox encourages believers to embrace their identity as strangers in this world, reminding them that true joy comes from the spirit, not from fleshly desires. He reflects on the fall of Adam and Eve, illustrating how they fell into deception and lost their dominion, but reassures that Christ, the seed that bruises the serpent's head, restores wisdom and power to the faithful.
Are You Mocked?
By C.H. Spurgeon0Faith in AdversityThe Mockery of BelieversPSA 14:1PRO 1:7MAT 5:3JHN 16:33ROM 12:142CO 12:9PHP 4:7JAS 4:61PE 3:91JN 3:10C.H. Spurgeon addresses the division of humanity into two groups: the children of God and the children of the devil, emphasizing the deep enmity that exists between them. He highlights how the righteous, often mocked for their faith and perceived weaknesses, find refuge in God, while the ungodly mock them as fools. Spurgeon encourages believers to stand firm in their faith despite ridicule, to pray for their mockers, and to respond with kindness, reflecting Christ's love. He asserts that true wisdom lies in trusting God, contrasting it with the folly of unbelief. Ultimately, he invites all to experience the peace and joy found in a relationship with Christ.
Part 6: Amillennialism as a System of Theology
By John F. Walvoord0MAT 25:31JHN 3:16ACT 5:3ROM 3:24ROM 8:381CO 7:51CO 12:271CO 15:522CO 4:32CO 11:142CO 12:7GAL 3:28EPH 1:7EPH 2:191TH 2:181TH 4:162TH 2:91TI 1:201PE 5:81JN 3:81JN 3:10REV 20:1REV 20:4John F. Walvoord preaches on 'The Growing Importance of Millennialism,' highlighting how millennialism now plays a crucial role in shaping theology as a whole, influencing systems like premillennialism, amillennialism, and postmillennialism. The controversy between amillennialism and premillennialism has intensified, revealing significant theological implications. Amillennialism's impact on bibliology is explored, showcasing its figurative interpretation of Scripture and its potential dangers in undermining the inspiration of the Bible. The sermon delves into amillennial theology's influence on soteriology, ecclesiology, and eschatology, emphasizing the differences between amillennial and premillennial views in these areas.
The Children of God
By James Smith0JHN 8:44JHN 14:18ROM 8:14ROM 8:17GAL 4:61PE 1:231JN 3:11JN 3:10REV 20:15James Smith preaches about the distinction between the children of God and the children of the devil. The children of God are born again of incorruptible seed, led by the Holy Spirit to confess sin, cry for mercy, and surrender themselves entirely to God. They live by faith, love holiness, and seek to be near the Lord always. In contrast, the children of the devil possess his spirit, imitate his conduct, and are eternally tormented by him.
The Father's Love and God's
By H.J. Vine0JHN 15:9JHN 15:241JN 3:11JN 3:101JN 5:3H.J. Vine preaches on the profound love of the Father, the right given by the Son, and the witness of the Holy Spirit, which assure believers of their identity as children of God. Jesus exemplified the Father's eternal love while on earth, inviting us to abide in this love and enjoy the same intimate relationship. The hope of being like Jesus and dwelling with Him in the Father's house is a source of great joy and purification for believers, leading to increased love for one another and obedience to God's commandments.
Pharisees Imagine That God Is Their Father When Actually Satan Is Their Father
By Zac Poonen0MAT 7:16MAT 12:33JHN 8:421JN 3:10Zac Poonen delivers a powerful sermon on the importance of truly knowing God as our Father through our love for Jesus. He highlights how Jesus confronted the Pharisees, revealing that their true father was the devil due to their accusatory and condemning nature. Poonen emphasizes the need for Christians to bear fruit in their lives as evidence of their relationship with God, cautioning against mere lip service without genuine transformation. He challenges church leaders to prioritize truth over reputation and to earnestly seek the salvation of souls to avoid the weight of unconverted hearts on their hands.
Day 234, 1 John 3
By David Servant01JN 3:10David Servant preaches on the moral and social tests of authentic conversion as outlined in 1 John 3. He emphasizes the importance of believers purifying themselves and standing out in behavior among non-Christians. True Christians are characterized by habitual righteousness and love for fellow believers, contrasting with the behavior of those who do not truly know God. The chapter highlights the necessity of sacrificial obedience, especially towards fellow Christians in need, as evidence of genuine faith and assurance before God.
Judge Not!
By David Servant0MAT 7:1JHN 7:241CO 5:121CO 6:91JN 3:10David Servant preaches about the importance of righteous judgment in a culture that promotes tolerance to the point of labeling anyone who holds to biblical standards as intolerant, close-minded, critical, and unloving. He emphasizes the need for Christians to discern and judge rightly, starting with self-examination before helping others. The sermon delves into the biblical instructions on judging unbelievers, spiritual leaders, and fellow believers, highlighting the responsibility to maintain holiness and purity within the church by making righteous judgments.
A Silly Gospel
By David Servant0MAT 5:45JHN 8:44JHN 16:8ACT 24:25ROM 2:4ROM 11:22EPH 2:1HEB 12:29JAS 2:132PE 3:91JN 3:10David Servant addresses the misconception that God's father-heart extends to all, emphasizing that God is only the Father of those who have repented and believed in Jesus, while others remain spiritually children of Satan. He highlights the danger of idolizing the 'father-heart of God' and neglecting other aspects of God's character, such as His holiness and wrath. Servant challenges the trend of focusing solely on God's love for sinners, stressing the importance of preaching about holiness, judgment, and repentance, even if it is unpopular. He warns against accommodating sinners with a watered-down gospel, advocating for a message that convicts of sin, righteousness, and judgment, as exemplified by Jesus, John the Baptist, and the apostles.
Death Is the Fate of All Such
By Ignatius of Antioch0DEU 30:19JHN 8:44EPH 4:241JN 3:10Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the importance of choosing between life through obedience to God's precepts or death through disobedience. He distinguishes between the truly devout, stamped by God, and the ungodly, influenced by the devil. Ignatius highlights that human nature remains the same, but individuals align themselves either with God or the devil based on their choices, with believers reflecting God's image and unbelievers reflecting the devil's image.
John 8:43-50. Christ Accuses His Enemies of Being the Children of Satan.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0JHN 8:44JHN 10:10JHN 14:62CO 11:141JN 3:10Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the stark reality of being either a child of God or a child of the devil, emphasizing the transformation that can occur through faith in God. The sermon delves into the characteristics of Satan's children, focusing on his nature as a murderer and a liar, and how he continues to deceive and lead people away from God. Jesus is presented as the ultimate truth-teller who came to reveal the lies of Satan and defend the character of God, urging listeners to believe in Him and not be deceived.
Romans 9:16 the Divine Part & the Human Part
By Ernest O'Neill0JHN 3:36ROM 5:8ROM 6:5ROM 9:161CO 15:452CO 5:19JAS 2:191JN 3:10Ernest O'Neill discusses the misconception that salvation is solely based on believing in God's grace without any effort on our part, emphasizing the importance of understanding the role of man's will in accepting God's mercy. He delves into Romans 9:16, highlighting God's initiative in salvation and the need for us to willingly participate in the process of spiritual regeneration. O'Neill contrasts the popular cerebral faith with the genuine spiritual transformation that involves surrendering our wills to God's work in our lives, ultimately leading to a real relationship with our Creator.
8. Rhetorical Style
By Daniel Steele0JHN 8:44JHN 11:251JN 1:51JN 3:101JN 4:61JN 4:81JN 5:16Daniel Steele preaches about the constant occurrence of moral and spiritual antitheses in the Bible, where each thought has its opposite. He highlights the contrasts such as light and darkness, life and death, love and hate, truth and falsehood, children of God and children of the devil, sin unto death and sin not unto death, the spirit of truth and the spirit of error, and love of the Father versus love of the world.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In this the children of God are manifest - Here is a fearful text. Who is a child of the devil? He that commits sin. Who is a child of God? He that works righteousness. By this text we shall stand or fall before God, whatever our particular creed may say to the contrary. Neither he that loveth not his brother - No man is of God who is not ready on all emergencies to do any act of kindness for the comfort, relief, and support of any human being. For, as God made of one blood an the nations of men to dwell upon the face of the whole earth, so all are of one family; and consequently all are brethren, and should love as brethren.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
children of the devil--(See on Jo1 3:8; Act 13:10). There is no middle class between the children of God and the children of the devil. doeth not righteousness--Contrast Jo1 2:29. he that loveth not his brother-- (Jo1 4:8); a particular instance of that love which is the sum and fulfilment of all righteousness, and the token (not loud professions, or even seemingly good works) that distinguishes God's children from the devil's.
John Gill Bible Commentary
In this the children of God are manifest,.... By regenerating grace, and not sinning, in the sense before explained, in consequence of it: adoption is an act of God's grace and sovereign will; it is secret in his own heart, and is secured in divine predestination, and in the covenant of grace, and is antecedent to regeneration: regeneration and faith do not make men the children of God, but manifest them to be so; adoption makes them the children of God, and entitles them to the inheritance; regeneration gives them the nature of the children of God, and makes them meet for it, and manifests their right unto it; not to the men of the world, but to themselves and other saints: and the children of the devil; such as imitate him, do his will and his lusts, and are openly under his power and influence; these are distinguishable from regenerate persons, and the children of God, by their lives and conversations; so the people of the nations of the world are called, "the children of Samael", and the serpent, by the Jews (m), which are with them the names of the devil. Whosoever doth not righteousness is not of God: that is, he does; not appear to be born of God, who does not by faith lay hold on the righteousness of Christ for his justification before God, and acceptance with him; and who does not do works of righteousness in faith from a principle of love, and with a view to the glory of God; for where regenerating grace is, there will be such graces and such practices: neither he that loveth not his brother; for as he that loveth God, and Christ, and the brethren, appears manifestly to be born again, and to have passed from death to life, so he that does not is in darkness, in a state of unregeneracy, and walks and continues therein; for was he born again, he would be taught of God to love the saints; see Jo1 4:7. (m) Raya Mehimna in Zohar in Lev. fol. 34. 2.