1 John 5:19
Verse
Context
The True God
18We know that anyone born of God does not keep on sinning; the One who was born of God protects him, and the evil one cannot touch him.19We know that we are of God, and that the whole world is under the power of the evil one.20And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true—in His Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
We know that we are of God - Have the fullest proof of the truth of Christianity, and of our own reconciliation to God through the death of his Son. The whole world lieth in wickedness - Εν τῳ πονηρῳ κειται· Lieth in the wicked one - is embraced in the arms of the devil, where it lies fast asleep and carnally secure, deriving its heat and power from its infernal fosterer. What a truly awful state! And do not the actions, tempers, propensities, opinions and maxims of all worldly men prove and illustrate this? "In this short expression," says Mr. Wesley, "the horrible state of the world is painted in the most lively colors; a comment on which we have in the actions, conversations, contracts, quarrels and friendships of worldly men." Yes, their Actions are opposed to the law of God; their Conversations shallow, simulous, and false; their Contracts forced, interested, and deceitful; their Quarrels puerile, ridiculous, and ferocious; and their Friendships hollow, insincere, capricious, and fickle: - all, all the effect of their lying in the arms of the wicked one; for thus they become instinct with his own spirit: and because they are of their father the devil, therefore his lusts they will do.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
world lieth in wickedness--rather, "lieth in the wicked one," as the Greek is translated in Jo1 5:18; Jo1 2:13-14; compare Jo1 4:4; Joh 17:14-15. The world lieth in the power of, and abiding in, the wicked one, as the resting-place and lord of his slaves; compare "abideth in death," Jo1 3:14; contrast Jo1 5:20, "we are in Him that is true." While the believer has been delivered out of his power, the whole world lieth helpless and motionless still in it, just as it was; including the wise, great, respectable, and all who are not by vital union in Christ.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And we know that we are of God,.... The sons of God, and regenerated by him; this is known by the Spirit of God, which witnesses to the spirits of the saints that they are the children of God; and by the fruits and effects of regenerating grace, as love to the brethren, and the like: and the whole world lies in wickedness; that is, the men of the world, the greater part of the inhabitants of it, who are as they were when they came into it, not being born of God; these are addicted to sin and, wickedness; the bias of their minds is to it, they are set upon it, and give themselves up to it, are immersed in it, and are under the power of it: or "in the wicked one"; Satan, the god of this world; they are under his influence, and led according to his will, and they are governed by him, and are at his beck and command; and this is known, by sad experience, it is easy of observation; "And cannot comprehend the things that are promised to the righteous in time to come: for this world is full of unrighteousness and infirmities.'' (2 Esdras 4:27)
1 John 5:19
The True God
18We know that anyone born of God does not keep on sinning; the One who was born of God protects him, and the evil one cannot touch him.19We know that we are of God, and that the whole world is under the power of the evil one.20And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true—in His Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Cry Against the Wicked Youth of America
By David Wilkerson9.9K1:17:00Wicked YouthGEN 18:20PRO 1:24ISA 7:2JON 3:4MAL 4:11JN 5:19In this sermon, the preacher talks about a man, a Hebrew, who is running through the streets proclaiming that there are only 40 days left before everyone will die because of their wickedness. The king and the court take this message seriously, realizing that God will not allow them to continue in their wickedness. The preacher highlights the current state of society, with young people dying from suicide, violence, and drug overdoses, blaming it on the influence of cheating and unloving parents, broken families, and corrupt churches. The preacher emphasizes that the street preacher was not preaching about the love of God or offering a beautiful plan for life, but rather warning of impending judgment. The sermon concludes by stating that God's judgment is a result of the people's corruption and sin, just as it was in the case of Israel.
Judgment to Come Pt 2
By Martyn-Lloyd Jones3.4K29:39JudgmentJHN 3:16ACT 16:31ACT 17:30ACT 24:24ROM 3:10ROM 3:231JN 5:19In this sermon, the preacher describes a scene of indulgence and pleasure, where people are eating, drinking, and dancing into the early hours of the morning. He emphasizes that every good thing must come to an end and questions whether people truly understand their need for God's forgiveness and salvation. The preacher warns against the modern philosophy of living only for the present and disregarding the concept of judgment to come. He urges listeners to repent, confess their sins to God, and believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior. The sermon concludes with a mention of a sequel to the story, which is not elaborated upon but is said to make the listener's position even more urgent.
(Genesis) 12 - the Way of Cain
By S. Lewis Johnson1.8K49:31Way Of CainGEN 4:9GEN 4:20MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 3:23HEB 12:241JN 5:19In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Cain and Abel from the book of Genesis. He explains that Cain's way is a path that begins with unbelief and leads to rebellion and immorality. The preacher emphasizes that Cain's descendants also follow this path. He then connects this story to the cultural mandate given by God to fill and subdue the earth, highlighting the importance of using science and technology for God's purposes. The sermon concludes with a call to repentance and reliance on Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation.
Skyland Conference 1988 (Two Kingdoms) - Part 1
By William MacDonald1.4K40:10Kingdom Of GodMAT 6:33JHN 12:312CO 2:112CO 4:4COL 1:91JN 5:19In this sermon, the preacher discusses the emptiness of the world and how it fails to satisfy the human heart. He references a story about a young entertainer who had achieved fame and success but still felt empty inside. The preacher emphasizes that the world portrayed in media and entertainment is not the reality and urges young people to see beyond its allure. He also highlights biblical passages that speak about the ruler of this world being judged and the need to be aware of the devil's devices.
Holding on to Idols
By Ralph Sexton1.3K40:271JN 5:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of keeping ourselves from being influenced by the world and its idols. He highlights how we can easily become desensitized to the truth of God's word due to the constant exposure to worldly things. The preacher also emphasizes the need to truly know God and recognize His presence in our lives. He urges Christians to let go of any idols or distractions that have taken hold of their hearts and to return to a fervent relationship with God.
Resist the Devil by Mario Digangi - Part 3
By Mariano Di Gangi1.2K08:12PSA 119:111JN 2:131JN 3:81JN 5:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of not conforming to the world controlled by the evil one, highlighting the need for believers to be distinct and separate. It discusses the purpose of Christ's coming to destroy the devil's work and the ongoing spiritual warfare between aligning with Christ or the evil one. The secret to resisting and overcoming the evil one is revealed in 1 John, where the strength to overcome comes from having the word of God living within us.
What It Means to Be a Light
By Zac Poonen1.0K56:55ROM 6:14ROM 8:281JN 5:19REV 3:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of being a light in the world by understanding the significant changes brought by Jesus in the New Covenant. It highlights the need to believe in God's promises, to resist the lies of the devil, and to experience victory over sin through God's grace and discipline. The message encourages humility, forgiveness, and trusting that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose.
Love Not the World
By Philip Powell88709:37MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 12:2GAL 1:4JAS 4:41JN 2:151JN 5:19In this sermon, the preacher discusses the apparent contradiction between two Bible verses: 1 John 2:15, which advises not to love the world, and John 3:16, which states that God loved the world. The preacher explains that this is not a contradiction but a paradox, as the Bible is full of paradoxes that present real truths. The sermon emphasizes that while the Bible contradicts every aspect of life outside of Christ, it never contradicts itself. The preacher also highlights the importance of loving the Father instead of the world, as what we love will shape us.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 509
By Don Courville31924:03Radio ShowPSA 119:154EPH 2:18EPH 3:5EPH 4:31JN 5:19In this sermon, the speaker begins by discussing the importance of keeping God's word and how it leads to the perfection of God's love within us. He then introduces a goldfish and a sponge as visual aids to illustrate his points. The speaker briefly mentions a verse from Ephesians about the unity of the spirit and reflects on its significance. Towards the end, he emphasizes the need for salvation through Jesus Christ and encourages the listeners to repent and believe in Him.
The Seduction of the Church
By Phil Beach Jr.3353:18Spiritual WarfareTrue Fulfillment in ChristSeductionPSA 116:7MIC 2:10MAT 11:28LUK 6:25EPH 6:10PHP 3:181TI 4:11TI 6:6HEB 13:141JN 5:19Phil Beach Jr. addresses the dangers of seducing spirits infiltrating the church, emphasizing the need for believers to remain vigilant against distractions that lead to spiritual fullness apart from Christ. He warns that many are becoming satisfied with worldly pursuits, which dulls their hunger for God and hinders their spiritual growth. Beach encourages the congregation to seek true rest and fulfillment in Jesus alone, urging them to identify and depart from anything that competes for their devotion. He highlights the importance of spiritual maturity and the necessity of putting on the armor of God to withstand the spiritual warfare that targets believers. Ultimately, he calls for a return to a deep, abiding relationship with God, free from the seduction of worldly fullness.
Biblical Trends Related to Globalization (Dan. 12:4)
By Mike Bickle2853:48ProphecyGlobalizationISA 60:1DAN 12:4MAT 24:14MAT 28:19ACT 1:82TI 3:11JN 5:19REV 13:3REV 13:7Mike Bickle discusses the significant biblical trends related to globalization, emphasizing how the world is increasingly interconnected in various aspects such as economy, culture, and governance. He highlights that this phenomenon, once unimaginable, is now a reality, setting the stage for prophetic events foretold in Scripture, including the rise of a global government and the spread of both righteousness and wickedness. Bickle points out that the rapid increase in travel and knowledge, as prophesied in Daniel 12:4, is crucial for understanding the current global narrative and the urgency for believers to engage with it. He encourages the church to recognize the larger storyline of God's plan amidst personal struggles, reminding them of the significant role they play in the unfolding events of history.
What You Intended for Evil
By Shane Idleman1549:42Spiritual WarfareConfronting EvilGEN 50:20PSA 51:5ROM 3:23ROM 8:282CO 4:17EPH 2:3EPH 6:121TH 5:22HEB 5:81JN 5:19Shane Idleman emphasizes the need for Christians to confront evil in society, urging them to awaken from apathy and actively engage in spiritual warfare through prayer, worship, and the application of God's Word. He highlights the dangers of a culture that promotes anti-God agendas and the importance of standing firm in faith, even amidst suffering and challenges. Idleman draws parallels between the nature of evil and the story of Joseph, illustrating how what is intended for evil can ultimately serve a greater purpose in God's plan. He calls for a kingdom-minded approach, encouraging believers to reject complacency and actively fight against the forces of darkness.
The Life of Faith Pt3
By Phil Beach Jr.1557:31Obedience to GodFaithGEN 3:1HEB 11:61JN 2:151JN 5:19Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the critical role of faith in pleasing God, referencing Hebrews 11:6, which states that without faith, it is impossible to please Him. He explains that the world is under the power of the wicked one due to a lack of faith, leading people to pursue their own desires instead of God's will. Beach contrasts the faith of biblical figures like Noah and Abraham with the faithlessness of Adam and Eve, urging believers to seek a living faith that enables them to trust and obey God's Word. He calls for a faith that not only believes but also acts, leading to a life that reflects a commitment to God's promises and a rejection of worldly temptations. Ultimately, he challenges the congregation to examine their faith and seek a deeper relationship with God.
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.
1 John 2:2
By John Gill0AtonementFaith in ChristLUK 2:1JHN 3:16JHN 17:9ROM 3:25EPH 2:8HEB 9:261JN 2:11JN 4:101JN 5:19John Gill expounds on 1 John 2:2, emphasizing that Jesus is the propitiation for the sins of believers, Old Testament saints, and Gentiles, thus highlighting the universal scope of Christ's atonement. He clarifies that the term 'whole world' does not imply universal redemption for every individual but rather signifies a broader inclusion beyond the Jewish community. Gill argues that the comfort of Christ's advocacy and propitiation is specifically for those who believe, as the benefits of His sacrifice are received through faith. He addresses misconceptions about atonement in Jewish thought, contrasting it with the Christian understanding of Christ's role as the ultimate sacrifice. The sermon reassures believers of their justification and glorification through faith in Christ's sacrifice.
Horizoned by Christ
By T. Austin-Sparks0Christ as JudgeSpiritual DepthMAT 16:21JHN 8:44ACT 10:42ACT 17:31ROM 8:222CO 5:17EPH 1:10COL 1:16HEB 1:21JN 5:19T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that Jesus Christ is ordained by God as the ultimate Judge and the 'Horizon' of all judgment, meaning that all things are determined within Him. He illustrates the Christian journey as a progression from the safety of the shore to the depths of spiritual understanding, where true fulfillment lies. Sparks highlights that the Christian life is serious and requires a commitment to deeper truths, as the Holy Spirit leads believers beyond their comfort zones. He explains that the Bible provides the only satisfactory answers to life's complexities, focusing on God's eternal intention, the historic rift caused by sin, and the significance of being 'in Christ.' Ultimately, he asserts that Christ is the defining criterion for all things, and through Him, believers find their true purpose and reconciliation with God.
Christian Nations
By Anton Bosch0DAN 2:44MAT 7:21ACT 11:261JN 5:19REV 3:5Anton Bosch discusses the misconception of nations claiming to be 'Christian nations' throughout history, emphasizing that merely bearing the name 'Christian' does not make a nation or an individual godly. He highlights the importance of a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ, as Jesus himself warns that many will claim to know Him but will be rejected due to their lawless behavior. Bosch points out that the Bible only mentions Israel and the Church as having a special relationship with God, and challenges the notion of any nation having a unique covenant with God, citing the lack of mention of powerful nations like America in biblical prophecy.
The Committed Life
By Watchman Nee0Commitment to GodFellowship in the ChurchGEN 12:6GEN 13:18JHN 4:14ACT 7:2ROM 12:1GAL 3:29HEB 3:61JN 5:19Watchman Nee emphasizes the significance of a committed life through the example of Abraham, who was called by God during a time of great moral decline. God revealed Himself to Abraham, sharing His plans and establishing a covenant that included a land and a people to bear witness to His glory. The sermon highlights the importance of building altars in our lives, representing our commitment to God, and the necessity of fellowship within the Church as a reflection of the Body of Christ. Nee stresses that true knowledge and strength come from a shared life in Christ, rather than mere information or individualism. Ultimately, the message calls believers to recognize their role as witnesses in the world, rooted in the life and strength that comes from God.
Epistle 189
By George Fox0FaithfulnessUnity in ChristDEU 2:25JER 9:3ROM 1:16ROM 2:14ROM 14:132TI 1:10JAS 5:71JN 5:19REV 14:6REV 21:2George Fox encourages his friends in New England and Virginia to remain steadfast in the truth and power of God, urging them to spread the gospel and confound deceit. He emphasizes the importance of unity, love, and patience, reminding them to avoid judging one another and to dwell in God's power to overcome worldly adversities. Fox highlights the necessity of preaching the everlasting gospel to all nations, assuring them that through patience and perseverance, they will witness the triumph of truth over falsehood. He calls for a commitment to the seed of God, which will sustain them against the trials of life and the challenges posed by spiritual deception.
Coming Events
By G.H. Lang0Spiritual WarfareHope in ProphecyGEN 3:15MAT 24:21LUK 24:262CO 4:4EPH 2:22TH 2:11PE 1:111JN 5:19REV 17:10REV 21:3G.H. Lang delivers a profound sermon titled 'Coming Events,' emphasizing the certainty of biblical prophecy and the hope it provides for the future. He explains that while the past may fade from human memory, God sees all time as present, allowing Him to accurately predict future events through His prophets. Lang outlines the significance of the first prophecy in Genesis 3:15, which foretells the ultimate victory of Christ over Satan, and discusses the dual experiences of suffering and triumph that Christ would endure. He also highlights the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil, culminating in the return of Christ and the establishment of His kingdom, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith.
Satan and the Saints
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual WarfareDiscernmentMAT 4:1JHN 10:10ACT 10:382CO 11:14EPH 6:122TI 2:26JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 5:19REV 2:10Watchman Nee emphasizes the subtle and deceptive ways in which Satan persecutes believers, often disguising himself and working through people and circumstances to create suffering and confusion. He highlights that many believers fail to recognize the true source of their struggles, attributing them to natural causes or human actions rather than the manipulations of the devil. Nee warns that Satan's tactics include causing physical ailments, emotional distress, and spiritual confusion, all while remaining hidden behind the scenes. The sermon calls for awareness among believers to discern the spiritual warfare they are engaged in and to understand that their true enemy is not flesh and blood but the devil himself. Ultimately, Nee encourages believers to seek God's strength and protection against these unseen attacks.
Agreement Necessary to Communion
By Thomas Reade0AMO 3:3JHN 15:19ROM 12:22CO 6:14PHP 3:20COL 3:2JAS 4:41PE 2:111JN 2:151JN 5:19Thomas Reade preaches on the necessity of agreement for communion, emphasizing the importance of like-mindedness and disposition for true fellowship. He contrasts the spiritually-minded individual who delights in heavenly things and loves God and His children, with the unconverted individual who prioritizes worldly pursuits and finds offense in discussions about religion. Reade warns against the dangers of worldly influence on Christians, urging them to guard their hearts and maintain separation from the values and practices of the world to truly belong to Christ.
The Trend Away From God
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual DiscernmentWorldlinessGEN 1:11ISA 53:6MAT 16:26JHN 12:31ROM 12:21CO 1:212CO 6:17PHP 3:8JAS 4:41JN 5:19Watchman Nee addresses the alarming trend away from God, emphasizing that while Christians recognize sinful things as Satanic, they often overlook the worldly pursuits like education, science, and culture that are equally under Satan's influence. He warns that the entire world lies in the evil one, and even seemingly innocent endeavors can lead believers astray if not kept under God's authority. Nee illustrates this with examples from history and personal experience, showing how institutions founded on Christian principles can drift into worldly standards once divine influence wanes. He concludes that true deliverance from these entanglements is not merely through personal dedication but through the mercy and redemptive work of God, urging believers to tread carefully in all worldly matters.
Identifying the Enemy
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual WarfareDiscernmentLUK 10:19JHN 10:10ROM 16:202CO 10:3EPH 6:122TI 2:26JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 5:19REV 12:10Watchman Nee emphasizes the necessity of identifying our true enemy, which is not merely human but spiritual, as outlined in Ephesians 6:12. He urges believers to recognize that behind human actions, Satan and his dark forces are at work, causing suffering and oppression. Nee calls for spiritual discernment to differentiate between God's purposes and the schemes of the enemy, advocating for a deep-seated hatred of Satan's harassment. He stresses that acknowledging the injustices inflicted by the enemy is crucial for achieving victory and that believers must adopt a resolute stance against oppression. Ultimately, he encourages a pursuit of vengeance against the malice of Satan, affirming that he has no right to afflict God's people.
Of Evil Angels
By John Wesley0Spiritual WarfareThe Nature of EvilPSA 91:11MAT 4:8LUK 10:19ROM 16:202CO 11:14EPH 6:12JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 5:19REV 12:9John Wesley addresses the reality of evil angels, emphasizing that our true struggle is not against human adversaries but against powerful spiritual forces. He explains that all angels were created good, but some, led by Satan, fell from grace and now work to oppose God's purposes. Wesley warns that these evil spirits are constantly seeking to tempt and deceive humanity, using various means to instill doubt, malice, and discord. He encourages believers to be vigilant, don the armor of God, and resist these spiritual attacks through faith and reliance on Christ. Ultimately, Wesley calls for awareness of the subtlety and malice of evil angels, urging Christians to remain steadfast in their faith.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
We know that we are of God - Have the fullest proof of the truth of Christianity, and of our own reconciliation to God through the death of his Son. The whole world lieth in wickedness - Εν τῳ πονηρῳ κειται· Lieth in the wicked one - is embraced in the arms of the devil, where it lies fast asleep and carnally secure, deriving its heat and power from its infernal fosterer. What a truly awful state! And do not the actions, tempers, propensities, opinions and maxims of all worldly men prove and illustrate this? "In this short expression," says Mr. Wesley, "the horrible state of the world is painted in the most lively colors; a comment on which we have in the actions, conversations, contracts, quarrels and friendships of worldly men." Yes, their Actions are opposed to the law of God; their Conversations shallow, simulous, and false; their Contracts forced, interested, and deceitful; their Quarrels puerile, ridiculous, and ferocious; and their Friendships hollow, insincere, capricious, and fickle: - all, all the effect of their lying in the arms of the wicked one; for thus they become instinct with his own spirit: and because they are of their father the devil, therefore his lusts they will do.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
world lieth in wickedness--rather, "lieth in the wicked one," as the Greek is translated in Jo1 5:18; Jo1 2:13-14; compare Jo1 4:4; Joh 17:14-15. The world lieth in the power of, and abiding in, the wicked one, as the resting-place and lord of his slaves; compare "abideth in death," Jo1 3:14; contrast Jo1 5:20, "we are in Him that is true." While the believer has been delivered out of his power, the whole world lieth helpless and motionless still in it, just as it was; including the wise, great, respectable, and all who are not by vital union in Christ.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And we know that we are of God,.... The sons of God, and regenerated by him; this is known by the Spirit of God, which witnesses to the spirits of the saints that they are the children of God; and by the fruits and effects of regenerating grace, as love to the brethren, and the like: and the whole world lies in wickedness; that is, the men of the world, the greater part of the inhabitants of it, who are as they were when they came into it, not being born of God; these are addicted to sin and, wickedness; the bias of their minds is to it, they are set upon it, and give themselves up to it, are immersed in it, and are under the power of it: or "in the wicked one"; Satan, the god of this world; they are under his influence, and led according to his will, and they are governed by him, and are at his beck and command; and this is known, by sad experience, it is easy of observation; "And cannot comprehend the things that are promised to the righteous in time to come: for this world is full of unrighteousness and infirmities.'' (2 Esdras 4:27)