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1 John 1

Hendriksen
‹ Chapter 0 1 John — All Chapters Chapter 2 ›

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  1. Preface: The Word of Life) 6 2 3 12 0 0 (1:1 4)) and Walk in the Light, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 part 1) 6 1 3 12 0 0 1:5 10) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Outline ) -60 3 2 0 2 0

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T.BorderStyle rvtbColorT.BorderVSpacingT.BorderHSpacingT.VisibleBorders.Bottom T.CellPaddingT.CellBorderStyle rvtbColorT.CellVSpacing�T.CellHSpacing�C TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data )%-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0 1:1 4 ) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data UQ-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0 I. Preface: The Word of Life) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data %!-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0 1:1 ) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data GC-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0 A. From the Beginning) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data %!-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0 1:2 ) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data =9-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0 B. Life Appeared) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data )%-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0 1:3 4 ) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data GC-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0 C. To Have Fellowship) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data /+-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0 1:5 2:17 ) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data GC-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0 II. Walk in the Light) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data +’-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0 1:5 10 ) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data WS-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0 A. Fellowship and Forgiveness) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data %!-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0 1:5 ) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data ;7-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0

  1. God Is Light) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data )%-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0 1:6 7 ) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data GC-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0
  2. Darkness and Light) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data +’-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0 1:8 10 ) TDc.BestWidthsc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data SO-8 1 3 2 7 1 3 8 0 0
  3. Deception and Confession) 7 2 3 8 0 0 I. Preface: The Word of Life ) 1:1 4 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 1 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 2 The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. 3 We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4 We write this to make our joy complete. ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 A. From the Beginning) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 1:1) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 This letter is known as the First Epistle of John. But is it an epistle? Indeed its beginning is unique, because the author s name, a reference to the addressees, and the customary greetings of a letter are absent. The writer knows the readers intimately. Repeatedly he addresses them as dear children, dear friends, and my brothers. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref1 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn1”
  1. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� And he indicates that he belongs to their own fellowship (2:19). He is a person endowed with authority who speaks as an eyewitness one who has heard and seen the Lord Jesus Christ. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.1-42.1.4|AUTODETECT|” The introduction of the Epistle to the Hebrews (1:1 4) parallels that of the First Epistle of John. The writer of Hebrews, however, displays a style that is characteristic of classical Greek, whereas John writes in a style typical of Semitic Greek. Classical Greek sentences show careful structure and balance with numerous subordinate clauses 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.1-42.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:1 4) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Semitic Greek has many coordinate clauses that are short and often are connected by the conjunction ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 and) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.2|AUTODETECT|” . For instance, here is a literal translation of ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.2|AUTODETECT|” I John 1:2) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 : and the life was manifested, and we have seen and bear witness and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was manifested to us -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref2 11 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn2” NASB) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0
  1. That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched this we proclaim concerning the Word of life.) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 Note the following clauses: ) a. That which was from the beginning. The first word in this epistle is that instead of who. Instead of saying, Jesus Christ, who was from the beginning, John writes, That which was from the beginning. The term ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 that) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 is broader than the word ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 who,) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 for it includes the person and message of Jesus Christ. The term refers to God s revelation, namely, the gospel which, says John, we proclaim concerning the Word of life. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.1|AUTODETECT|” The first words of this epistle echo the opening sentence of the Gospel of John, In the beginning was the Word (1:1), and the introductory phrase of the Old Testament, In the beginning 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 1:1) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). However, John writes from the beginning, not in the beginning (see 2:7, 13, 14, 24; 3:8, 11). In the clause that which was from the beginning, John points not to the proclamation that Jesus came in the flesh but to the divine revelation disclosed in history and recorded in the Old Testament that teaches the eternal existence of the Son of God.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref3 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn3”
  1. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.14|AUTODETECT|” �� The message which is proclaimed is that Jesus, who made his dwelling among us 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.14|AUTODETECT|” John 1:14) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ), is eternal. John specifies and proceeds to inform the readers about the message he has heard. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.21-44.1.22|AUTODETECT|” b. Which we have heard. John personally listened to the words coming from the lips of Jesus. He was one of the twelve disciples who accompanied the Lord from the time of Jesus baptism to his ascension 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.21-44.1.22|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:21 22) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). He received instruction in the doctrines pertaining to the work and words of God, from the beginning of creation through the history of redemption in Jesus Christ.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref4 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn4”
  2. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.20|AUTODETECT|” �� John, then, speaks of the training he and his fellow apostles received from Jesus. He reformulates the words which he with Peter uttered before the Sanhedrin: For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.20|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:20) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 c. Which we have seen with our eyes. From the spiritual instruction he received, John turns to his instructor Jesus and focuses attention on him. John is saying, We, apostles, are eyewitnesses who not only have heard the voice of Jesus. We also have seen him with our eyes. In a sense, these words are redundant. But John stresses that the apostles physically saw Jesus. That is, they did not see an apparition whose voice they heard but whose body they could not see. Jesus has a physical body, for we have seen [him] with our eyes. ) d. Which we have looked at and our hands have touched. John resorts to another verb to express the act of seeing Jesus; he says, We have looked at [him]. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref5 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn5”
  3. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� Purposely John informs the readers that he employed three of his physical senses to ascertain the presence of the Lord. He heard his voice, he saw him with his eyes, and he touched him with his hands. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 The words ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 and our hands have touched) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.39|AUTODETECT|” are reminiscent of the appearance of Jesus on Easter in the upper room when Jesus invited the Eleven and those with them to touch him and to see for themselves that he had a physical body. A ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have, Jesus said 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.39|AUTODETECT|” Luke 24:39) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.20|AUTODETECT|” ; also consult ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.20|AUTODETECT|” John 20:20) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.25|AUTODETECT|”
  4. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.27|AUTODETECT|”
  5. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 John teaches the apostolic doctrine of the resurrection of Jesus. He speaks as an eyewitness, for with his natural senses he and those with him personally heard, saw, and touched Jesus and declare that the resurrected physical body of the Lord is real.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref6 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn6”
  6. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 e. This we proclaim concerning the Word of life. The New International Version has added the words ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 this we proclaim) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to summarize and complete the sentence.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref7 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn7”
  7. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� John supplies these words in the immediate context. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 What is the meaning of the phrase ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 the Word of life) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ? First, it is equivalent to the that of the earlier part of the verse, namely, the message of Jesus Christ. And next, this message is the Word that has become flesh, as John writes in the prologue of his Gospel (1:14).��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref8 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn8”
  8. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� The term ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Word) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.1|AUTODETECT|” is one of the names John uses to describe Jesus Christ 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.1|AUTODETECT|” John 1:1) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.14|AUTODETECT|”
  9. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.1|AUTODETECT|” I John 1:1) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.13|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 19:13) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.32|AUTODETECT|” ). Jesus, who is called the Word, speaks God s words with absolute authority. He reveals the will of God and testifies [to man] to what he has seen and heard 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.32|AUTODETECT|” John 3:32) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) in the presence of God.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref9 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn9”
  10. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.4|AUTODETECT|” �� Furthermore, Jesus not only reveals the message of life; he also possesses life 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.4|AUTODETECT|” John 1:4) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.25|AUTODETECT|” 11:25) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” 14:6) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) and shares it with all who listen to his Word in faith. He is the life giver. ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 B. Life Appeared) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 1:2) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0
  1. The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us.) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 This verse is actually an explanatory note on the word ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 life) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 . Translators and expositors usually regard verse 2 as a parenthetical remark and indicate that it is the equivalent of a comment on the preceding text. Verses 1 and 3, then, present continuity of thought. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 A literal translation of the first clause in this text is, And the life appeared. Although most translations omit the conjunction ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 and,) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 some render it for, when, or even yes. To be sure, this conjunction conveys an affirmative intent that can be translated indeed. That is, indeed the life appeared. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Note that John writes the life, not life. He wants to explain the meaning of the term ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 life) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 . Therefore, he places the definite article ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 the) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 before the noun ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 life) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to call attention to the fullness of life in Jesus Christ. He further explains by adding the words, the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 First, John actually writes, the life, the eternal life, that which was with the Father. He is emphatic in describing the extent of this life by characterizing it as eternal. It is life that never ends, for it has the mark of eternity.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref10 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn10”
  1. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� But the life which John describes is more than a concept. It stands for Jesus Christ, as John shows in the clause that which was with the Father. The words ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 with the Father) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 imply not only that the Son is in the presence of the Father; also the preposition ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 with) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 in the original Greek has the root meaning ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 near) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 facing) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.1|AUTODETECT|” . Life, then, personified in the Son is near to or faces the Father 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.1|AUTODETECT|” John 1:1) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 7 7 3 8 0 0 Second, John writes that the life appeared and the eternal life & has appeared to us. John refers to the historic event of Jesus birth, life, death, resurrection, and personal visits after his resurrection. During the first century, Christians gave expression to Jesus appearance when they sang the hymn: ) He appeared in a body, ) was vindicated by the Spirit, ) was seen by angels, ) was preached among the nations, ) was believed on in the world, ) was taken up in glory. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” I Timothy 3:16) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Once again John emphasizes that he and those with him have seen Jesus. They saw him in human flesh and after his resurrection in his glorified body. As witnesses of Jesus victory over death, the apostles testified of Jesus life, death, resurrection, and ascension. The verb ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 testify) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (a word John uses frequently in his vocabulary)��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref11 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn11”
  2. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� points to the following verb ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 proclaim) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 . The apostles proclaimed the Word of life. They proclaimed the word and work of Jesus. ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 C. To Have Fellowship) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 1:3 4) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0
  1. We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 These are the points John communicates: ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 a. Emphasis) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 After the parenthetical comment, John resumes the thought of the first verse and repeats from the second verse the verb ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 proclaim) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 . John emphasizes proclaiming the message which he and the other apostles had received from the Lord. He builds his argument by repeating clauses from verse 1. But note that he reverses the verbs, for he says, We proclaim to you what we ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 have seen) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 and ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 heard) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (italics added). Also, this is the third time that he uses the verb ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 to see) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 . What is John saying? ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 By reiterating the same verbs, John seems to warn the readers against false doctrines that deny the human nature, physical appearance, and bodily resurrection of Jesus. John testifies that he has seen Jesus and has heard his voice. John wants his readers to know the core of the apostolic message: Jesus Christ, the Son of God, has appeared in human flesh. As an eyewitness and earwitness, John is able to testify to the veracity of this message and proclaim what he has seen and heard.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref12 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn12”
  1. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 b. Purpose) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 John states the purpose of his letter in this verse. Says he, We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. He states a parallel purpose near the end of his letter: I write these things to you & so that you may know that you have eternal life (5:13). The purpose is to invite the readers to the fellowship of the apostles who are eyewitnesses of the earthly life and ministry of Jesus. ) The invitation serves two ends. First, John seeks to shield the readers from the doctrinal attacks of false teachers and to strengthen them spiritually within the fellowship of the apostles and disciples.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref13 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn13”
  2. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.32-44.4.37|AUTODETECT|” �� When people have fellowship, they share their mutual gifts, goals, and goods 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.32-44.4.37|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:32 37) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The apostles shared their spiritual gifts with members of the church. And second, John invites the readers of his epistle to join the eyewitnesses in their fellowship with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 c. Focus) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 In the last part of verse 3, John reveals the focal point of his introduction: Jesus Christ, the Son of God. This focus is significant, because in his epistle the name ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Christ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 is the official title of Jesus. Except for one instance (1:7), John always uses the combination ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Jesus Christ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Jesus) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Christ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) or the clause ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 that Jesus is the Christ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 .��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref14 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn14”
  3. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� He wants his readers to know that the human Jesus is indeed the heavenly Messiah, that is, the Christ. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 John also considers the name ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Son) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 significant. In his first epistle this is a key word.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref15 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn15”
  4. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� John emphasizes the basic confession of the church: Jesus is the Son of God. Throughout his epistle he mentions the fellowship of the believer with the Father and the Son (1:7), the redeeming work of the Son (1:7; 4:10), the mission of the Son (3:8), God s testimony about the Son (5:9), the gift of the Son in terms of eternal life (5:11, 13), and last, the coming of the Son (5:20). Especially in chapter 5, John explains the significance of the word ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Son) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 .��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref16 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn16”
  5. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 6 1 3 8 0 0
  1. We write this to make our joy complete.) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Translations differ on the wording of this text. Some have the reading And these things we write to you that your joy may be full -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref17 11 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn17” NKJV) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Others, among which is the New International Version, follow the Greek manuscripts that read, We write this to make our joy complete. Because of emphasis on the words ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 we) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 and ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 our,) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the evidence seems to favor the second reading. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Why does John say we write, when he alone is regarded as the author of this epistle? Only here he uses the plural form ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 we write,) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 while twelve times in this letter he says I write or I am writing (2:1, 7, 8, 12, 13 [three times], 14 [twice], 21, 26; 5:13). Is he putting himself with the readers in one class and then using the so-called preacher s we ?��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref18 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn18”
  1. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� Hardly. If this were the case, we would have difficulty determining who the people are John addresses as you (see vv. 2 3). Is the use of we an indication of John s apostolic authority? Not quite. If we understand this pronoun to refer to the authority of the apostle John, then the use of we throughout the introduction is strictly individualistic and excludes the other apostles. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 What then is the significance of the first person plural? The pronoun ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 we) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 must be understood literally, because John, like the other apostles, preaches and writes as an eyewitness and earwitness. Thus John is not the only one to testify orally or with pen and ink. He stands next to his fellow apostles. He says, We [all the immediate disciples of Jesus] write this to make our joy complete. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.30|AUTODETECT|” The greatest joy to fill the heart of the apostle John and those with him is to see the believers increase in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. He wants them to have full fellowship with the Father and the Son, so that the believers live in full communion with God. John underscores the well-known words of John the Baptist spoken in tribute of Jesus: He must become greater; I must become less 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.30|AUTODETECT|” John 3:30) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Doctrinal Considerations in 1:1 4) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 We have received an interesting comment from Papias, who around a.d. 125 was bishop of the church in Hierapolis, which was a city near Laodicea and Colosse in Asia Minor. Reportedly he was a follower of the apostle John from whom he tried to learn as much as possible about the Lord. He writes: ) If ever anyone came who had followed the presbyters, I inquired into the words of the presbyters, what Andrew or Peter or Philip or Thomas or James or John or Matthew, or any other of the Lord s disciples, had said, and what Aristion and the presbyter John, the Lord s disciples, were saying. For I did not suppose that information from books would help me so much as the word of a living and surviving voice.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref19 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn19”
  2. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.29|AUTODETECT|” The generation of apostles and eyewitnesses ended near the close of the first century. And for all those who have come after that era, the words of Jesus spoken to Thomas are applicable: Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.29|AUTODETECT|” John 20:29) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.3|AUTODETECT|” We cannot physically see Jesus, yet we have fellowship with him 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.3|AUTODETECT|” I John 1:3) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.11-58.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ). We rejoice because he is always near us and is willing to listen to us. He is our brother 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.11-58.2.12|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 2:11 12) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.14-43.15.15|AUTODETECT|” ) and our friend 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.14-43.15.15|AUTODETECT|” John 15:14 15) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 How well do we know Jesus? We readily reject the liberal teaching that separates the historical Jesus from the Christ of faith, for we hold to the scriptural doctrine that Jesus is the Christ. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” But how much does the humanity of Jesus mean to us today? We have no difficulty accepting the birth, life, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus. When we reflect on Jesus humanity, we ask, What is its significance for us now? For one thing, his glorified human body is a guarantee that our physical bodies shall also be glorified. Jesus will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:21) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.17|AUTODETECT|” ). Moreover, because Jesus shares our flesh and blood, he is our merciful and faithful high priest who has made atonement for the sins of [his] people 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.17|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 2:17) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Jesus welcomes us into the presence of God, the Father. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:1 4) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Verse 1) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 �������� & �������� the perfect active in this verse and the next two verses denotes lasting effect. Hearing and seeing are the two sides of the same coin. Hearing is equally essential with seeing. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref20 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn20”
  3. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 ��������� note the use of the aorist tense that contrasts with the perfect tense in the preceding verbs. This verb and ��������� (aorist active of �������, I touch, handle) point to a specific period of history in which the apostles accompanied Jesus. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Verse 2) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 ! ��� John employs the definite article to specify that life is eternal. He emphasizes the concept ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 life) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 with the repetitive use of the definite article and the indefinite relative pronoun %���. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Verse 3) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 E as in the first verse, this relative neuter pronoun ultimately refers to Jesus.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref21 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn21”
  4. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 ��v ! �������� �� When the copula is sufficiently represented by ��, a ��� may be rendered by some such phrase as ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Yes, and) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Moreover) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 . ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref22 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn22”
  5. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Verse 4) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 !���� manuscript support is stronger for the reading !���� than Q���. Copyists were more likely to alter �������� !���� to the expected �������� Q��� than vice versa. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref23 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn23”
  6. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 !��� manuscript support favors !��� instead of Q���. Bruce M. Metzger writes, As regards intrinsic probability, !��� seems to suit best the generous solicitude of the author, whose own joy would be incomplete unless his readers shared it. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref24 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn24”
  7. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 � ����������� this is a periphrastic construction with the verb ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 to be) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 in the present subjunctive and the perfect passive participle as an extensive perfect (completed act). ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref25 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn25”
  8. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 II. Walk in the Light ) 1:5 2:17 ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 A. Fellowship and Forgiveness) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 1:5 10) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 5 This is the message we have from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6 If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from every sin. ) 8 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives. ) 9 1 3 8 0 0
  1. God Is Light) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 1:5) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 John has introduced his letter by proclaiming the message that Jesus Christ, who is the Word of life, has appeared and that the readers may have fellowship with the Father and the Son, Jesus Christ. John continues to expand the content of that message and explains that fellowship includes light and truth. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0
  2. This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 a. This is the message. John skillfully uses the order of words in the Greek to emphasize his point.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref26 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn26”
  1. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� Although we are able to convey the emphasis in English only with the translation ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 this is the message,) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 John puts the stress on the verb ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 is) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to convey the sense ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 exists) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 : There exists this message. He discloses not only the importance of the message but also its timeless significance. This message, therefore, has not been subject to change and modification, because it did not originate with John or with any other apostle or writer. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 b. The message we have heard from him. John implies that God originated the message delivered by Jesus Christ. John writes, We have heard [it] from him. This is the third time John uses the construction ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 we have heard) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.36.9|AUTODETECT|” (see also vv. 1, 3). The apostles heard the message from the lips of Jesus; they also knew it from the pages of the Old Testament. Hence David writes, In your light we see light 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.36.9|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 36:9) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.49.6|AUTODETECT|” ). God revealed himself to his people through the prophets 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.49.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 49:6) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.1.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.1.19|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 1:19) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 c. We & declare to you. What did Jesus teach the apostles during his earthly ministry? John sums it up in one sentence. We & declare to you: God is light; in him is no darkness at all. John and the other apostles received this declaration from Jesus with the command to make it known. The message is not merely for information; it is a command.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref27 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn27”
  2. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� That is, God speaks and man must listen obediently. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.24|AUTODETECT|” d. God is light. John formulates short statements that describe God s nature. In other places he says, God is spirit 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.24|AUTODETECT|” John 4:24) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.16|AUTODETECT|” ) and God is love 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.16|AUTODETECT|” I John 4:16) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ). Here, in verse 5, he reveals God s essence in a short statement of three words: God is light. God is not a light among many other lights; he is not a light-bearer; God does not have light as one of his characteristics, but he is light; and although he created light 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.3|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 1:3) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.12|AUTODETECT|” ), he himself is uncreated light. Moreover, the light of God is visible in Jesus, who said, I am the light of the world 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.12|AUTODETECT|” John 8:12) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In the Nicene Creed, the church confesses Jesus Christ as ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 God of God, Light of Light. ) In Jesus we see God s eternal light. From the moment of his birth to the time of his resurrection, the life of Jesus was filled with God s light. Jesus was completely and absolutely transparent with the Light of God. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref28 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn28”
  3. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.9|AUTODETECT|” �� And whoever has seen Jesus has seen the Father 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.9|AUTODETECT|” John 14:9) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 e. In him there is no darkness at all. Light is positive, darkness is negative. In his writings, John habitually contrasts opposites, including light and darkness, truth and falsehood, love and hate, right and wrong, life and death, faith and unbelief. He writes, In [God] there is no darkness at all. Using the emphatic negative, John stresses the positive. God and darkness are diametrically opposed. Anyone who has fellowship with God cannot be in darkness. He is in the light, glory, truth, holiness, and purity of God. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:5) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 ���� �U�� the emphasis falls on the verb ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 to be,) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 which conveys the meaning ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 to exist) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 ������ this noun appears twice in the New Testament, both times in the First Epistle of John (1:5; 3:11). Some Greek manuscripts have the reading �������� (promise), which also occurs in 2:25. ) ����������� the verb ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 to announce) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref29 11 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn29” NIV) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) is directed to the audience. By contrast, the verb ����������� ( we proclaim, NIV [1:2, 3]) relates to the original source of the message. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 ��� the word ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 light) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 is a typical Johannine word. In the N[ew] T[estament] ��� occurs 72 times, of which 33 are in the Johannine writings, 14 in the Synoptic Gospels, 13 in Paul and 10 in Acts. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref30 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn30”
  4. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 9 1 3 8 0 0
  1. Darkness and Light) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 1:6 7) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0
  2. If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from every sin.) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 The next five verses of this chapter are conditional sentences that describe probability or even possibility. The first, third, and fifth verses are negative, the second and the fourth are positive. ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 (a) Negative ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 John repeats the word ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 fellowship) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 which he first used near the end of his introduction (v. 3). Fellowship, as he said, is with the Father and the Son, Jesus Christ. But fellowship means intimately sharing in the full light of God s presence. Nothing is hidden in the brilliance of divine revelation. In God is absolutely no darkness and no need to hide anything. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 The sinner who refuses to set his life in harmony with God s will cannot claim to have fellowship with God. Perhaps some of the people who opposed the Christian faith near the end of the first century and who were known as Gnostics were saying, We have fellowship with God. Yet these people continued to walk in darkness, that is, they were taking intense satisfaction in a life of sinful pleasures. They separated word from deed. They professed to live for God, but their deeds proved to be incompatible with their confession. They lived the lie. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.19-43.3.21|AUTODETECT|” What are deeds that are contradictory to the assertion of living for God? They are deeds that cannot stand in the light of God s Word 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.19-43.3.21|AUTODETECT|” John 3:19 21) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ). Darkness can blind a person so that his heart is filled with hatred toward his brother 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.11|AUTODETECT|” I John 2:11) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). And this blindness results in a refusal to live according to God s precepts. ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 John is all-inclusive in his description of people who live in darkness. He does not say they but we. If we say that we are God s people but continue to live in sin, we lie and do not live by the truth. If we lie, we sin with our mouths but also with our entire beings. Our lives are set against God because of a heart filled with hatred and a will inclined to disobedience. ) Sin alienates man from God and from his fellow man.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref31 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn31”
  1. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� It disrupts life and fosters confusion. Instead of peace, there is discord; in place of harmony, there is disorder; and in lieu of fellowship, there is enmity. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 However, when we have fellowship with God, we experience the grace of Christ dispelling darkness and flooding us with the light of God.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref32 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn32”
  2. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� To have fellowship with God is to live a life of holiness in his sacred presence. The Latin saying ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Coram Deo) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (always in the presence of God) was a motto of the sixteenth-century reformer John Calvin. Holiness demands truth in word and deed. ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 (b) Positive ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.16|AUTODETECT|” What then is characteristic of a life spent in the light of God s truth? If we walk in the light, as [God) is in the light, we have fellowship with one another. Walking in the light is continuous. It means that we live in the radiance of God s light, so that we reflect God s virtues and glory. God himself lives in unapproachable light, as Paul discloses 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.16|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:16) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.37-40.22.38|AUTODETECT|” Living for God implies that we have a wholesome relationship with our fellow man. This truth is reflected in the summary of the Decalogue: Love the Lord your God & and love your neighbor as yourself 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.37-40.22.38|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 22:37 38) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). A longing for heavenly glory in the presence of God must be accompanied by a fervent desire to have fellowship with the church on earth. Timothy Dwight gave expression to his desire to serve the Lord through the fellowship of the church when he wrote: ) 7 8 3 8 0 0 I love thy church, O God: ) Her walls before thee stand, ) Dear as the apple of thine eye, ) And graven on thy hand. ) For her my tears shall fall, ) For her my prayers ascend; ) To her my cares and toils be giv n, ) Till toils and cares shall end. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.27|AUTODETECT|” Furthermore, if we walk in the light and have fellowship with God and with one another, we realize that our sins have disappeared. John says, And the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from every sin. Jesus cleanses us and presents us to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.27|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:27) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.14|AUTODETECT|” ; also see ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.14|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 9:14) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 We stand before God as if we have never sinned at all. The Son of God purifies us when, after we have fallen into sin, we come to him and seek remission. Note that John writes the name ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Jesus) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to call attention to the earthly life of God s Son, who shed his blood for remission of sin. Sin belongs to the world of darkness and cannot enter the sphere of holiness. Therefore, God gave his Son to die on earth. Through his Son s death God removed man s sin and guilt so that man may have fellowship with God. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:7) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 8���� ��� �1�� �P��� although a few Greek and Latin manuscripts and at least two translations -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref33 11 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn33” KJV) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , NKJV) have the reading ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Jesus Christ his Son,) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 it is easier to explain the word ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Christ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (also see 1:3; 2:1; 3:23; 4:2, 15 [variant reading]; 5:6, 20) as an insertion than to account for its omission. ) 9 1 3 8 0 0
  1. Deception and Confession) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 1:8 10) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0
  2. If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Once more John states the negative and the positive in two successive verses that express conditions. Also the last verse (v. 10) is a conditional statement, which John puts in the form of a negative conclusion. ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 (a) Denial ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Another claim made by opponents of the Christian faith, perhaps the so-called Gnostics, is that they have advanced to a stage beyond sinfulness. They say that they have achieved their goal: perfection.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref34 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn34”
  1. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.4|AUTODETECT|” John listens to these people who assert that they are without sin. But when he quotes their claim, he includes himself and the readers. He puts the assertion in a conditional sentence and says, If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. Anyone who has no need to pray the fifth petition of the Lord s Prayer Forgive us our sins 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.4|AUTODETECT|” Luke 11:4) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.28.13|AUTODETECT|” ) because he thinks that he has no sin deceives himself. King Solomon wisely observed 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.28.13|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 28:13) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ): ) 7 3 3 8 0 0 He who conceals his sins does not prosper, ) but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy. ) The choice of words is significant: John says, we have no sin. He does not write, we do not sin. The noun ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 sin) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 describes the cause and the consequence of an act of disobedience; as a verb, the word describes the act itself.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref35 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn35”
  2. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.14.3|AUTODETECT|” In the days of the apostle John, Greek philosophers taught a separation between body and spirit. The spirit is free, they said, but the body is matter that eventually dies. That is, if the body sinned, the spirit would be blameless. Sin, then, cannot affect the spirit. The First Epistle of John provides insufficient information to conclude that John was actively opposing Greek thinking. Scripture, however, teaches the universality of sin by saying that in the human race there is no one who does good, not even one 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.14.3|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 14:3) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.53.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.53.3|AUTODETECT|” 53:3) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.12|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:12) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.7.20|AUTODETECT|” ; also see ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.7.20|AUTODETECT|” Eccl. 7:20) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 If we say that we have no sin, we are misleading ourselves. Moreover, the truth of God s Word is not in us. In our spiritual blindness, we go contrary to the plain teaching of Scripture. And God judges us by the words we have spoken, for our own words condemn us. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0
  1. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 The writer presents typical Semitic parallelism. Verse 8 is parallel to verse 6, and verse 9 is a partial repetition and further explanation of verse 7. Because of its affirmative message, verse 9 is one of the more well-known passages of the epistle and even of the entire New Testament. ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 (b) Affirmation ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The text consists of three parts. The first is the condition, the second the assurance, and the third the fulfillment. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 If we confess our sins. This is the conditional part of the sentence that points to our acknowledgment of sin. We openly and honestly face sin without hiding it or finding excuses for it.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref36 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn36”
  1. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� We confront the sins we have committed, without defending or justifying ourselves. We confess our sins to show repentance and renewal of life. We are not told when, where, and how to confess our sins, but daily repentance of sin leads us to continual confession. John actually writes, If we keep confessing our sins. He writes the word ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 sins) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (in the plural) to indicate the magnitude of our transgressions. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.32.4|AUTODETECT|” He is faithful and just. Here is the assurance. God is faithful with respect to his promises. He is a faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.32.4|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 32:4) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.31.34|AUTODETECT|” ). He does not scold or rebuke us; he does not become impatient; and he does not go back on his word. The only condition God requires for forgiveness is that we confess our sins. True to the promises made to the people of his new covenant, God declares, I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.31.34|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 31:34) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.8.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.8.12|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 8:12) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.17|AUTODETECT|” 10:17) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref37 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn37”
  2. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 [He] will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. Note the fulfillment. Although translators put the verbs in the future tense as if the acts of forgiving and purifying will eventually happen, the Greek text says that God effectively forgives and purifies once for all. The first verb ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 to forgive) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 describes the act of canceling a debt and the restoration of the debtor. And the second verb ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 to cleanse) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.1.18|AUTODETECT|” refers to making the forgiven sinner holy so that he is able to have fellowship with God. God takes the initiative, for he says to us, Come now, let us reason together.& Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 1:18) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0
  1. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 This last verse is the conclusion of the series of conditional sentences. At the same time, it serves as an introduction to the next chapter. ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 (c) Conclusion ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The statement ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 we have not sinned) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.10|AUTODETECT|” reveals the blatant attitude of the unrepentant, unregenerate infidel. In verse 8 the unbeliever said that he has no sin; now he asserts that he is not a sinner. If he is not a sinner, for he maintains that he has not sinned, he makes himself equal to God, the sinless One. Through his Word God convicts man of sin. But if man refuses to listen to evidence God presents, man accuses God of lying 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.10|AUTODETECT|” I John 5:10) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In the sequence of three verses (6, 8, and 10), the writer works toward a climax: we lie (v. 6), we deceive ourselves (v. 8), and we make him out to be a liar (v. 10). ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Once again John includes himself and the readers when he uses the personal pronoun ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 we) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.2|AUTODETECT|” . If we should go so far as to say that we have not sinned, in spite of all the evidence, then the Word of God has no place in our lives. And that means that we are unbelievers who have rejected the gospel of salvation. The writer of Hebrews warns his readers not to follow the example of the rebellious Israelites who perished in the desert. For we also have had the gospel preached to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because those who heard did not combine it with faith 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.2|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 4:2) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Practical Considerations in 1:5 10) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Plaques on walls and bumper stickers on cars tell the world God is love. But no one displays the sign ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 God is light) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 . Yet this is exactly what John does in his first epistle. He first says, God is light (1:5) and later writes, God is love (4:16). Light comes before love, for light uncovers that which is hidden. When we have fellowship with God (1:3, 6), we cannot hide our sins. Sins, like darkness, have no place in God s light. They must be removed. ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 How does God remove sins? This is God s method: First, he cleanses us from sin with the blood of Jesus, his Son, [that] purifies us from every sin (v. 7). And second, he specifies our part in the remission of sin: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness (1:9). The blood of Jesus is sufficient to cleanse us from sin, but we must be willing to confess our sins. God s provision and man s responsibility go hand in hand. ) To confess means that I say the same thing God says about sin.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref38 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn38”
  1. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� God applies his law and says, You are the sinner. And like the publican in the temple court I acknowledge my sin and pray, God, have mercy on me, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 the) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.13|AUTODETECT|” sinner 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.13|AUTODETECT|” Luke 18:13) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , italics added the original Greek has ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 the) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 sinner, not ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 a) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 sinner ). When God and man say the same thing about sin, the blood of Christ dissolves the stain of sin. God will remember sin no more. He forgives and forgets! Indeed, God is love. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:9 10) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Verse 9) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 �p� ������� John writes the plural form of the noun to express the multitude of sin. ) 5�� the conjunction introduces not so much purpose as conceived result. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref39 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn39”
  2. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Verse 10) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 !���������� the perfect active tense denotes completed action in the past although negated by �P� (not) that continues into the present.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref40 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn40”
  3. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 ������� this noun appears ten times in the New Testament; half of the references occur in I John (1:10; 2:4, 22; 4:20; 5:10). ) 9 1 3 8 0 0 Summary of Chapter 1) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 3 3 8 0 0 The first four verses of the epistle are introductory. They are a summary that tells the reader about the content of the letter. But the introduction also reminds him of the first verse of Genesis and the first verse of the Gospel of John to show him the continuity of God s message. The writer informs the reader that the message he and other eyewitnesses proclaim is true to fact. This message concerns the Word of life, namely, Jesus Christ, the Son of God. John invites the reader to have fellowship with God. ) John seems to oppose religious teachers who make bold and unfounded statements.
But before he alludes to some of their remarks, he states the heart of God s message to man: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. The statements of these erring teachers simply are unacceptable in view of God s revelation. Their remarks are contradictory to the message of God and reveal the unrepentant heart of the sinner who claims to have no sin. ) John encourages the reader. He says that if we walk in the light, and confess our sins, God will forgive us our sins and purify us through the blood of Jesus, his Son. Therefore, we must walk in God s light. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
_ftn1
10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref1”
1 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0
These are the references: dear children (2:1, 12, 18; 3:7, 18; 4:4; 5:21), dear friends (2:7; 3:2, 21; 4:1, 7, 11), brothers (3:13). ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
_ftn2
11 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref2”
NASB ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0
New American Standard Bible ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
_ftn3
10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref3”
2 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0
Refer to S. Greijdanus, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0
De Brieven van de Apostelen Petrus en Johannes, en de Brief van Judas) 7 1 -1 9 0 0
, Kommentaar op het Nieuwe Testament series (Amsterdam: Van Bottenburg, 1929), p. 383. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
_ftn4
10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref4”
3 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0
Consult A. E. Brooke, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0
A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the Johannine Epistles) 7 1 -1 9 0 0
, International Critical Commentary series (Edinburgh: Clark, 1964), p. 2. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
_ftn5
10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref5”
4 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0
In his Gospel, John employs the verb ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0
to look at) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.11.45|AUTODETECT|”
(in the Greek) for seeing the glory of Jesus (1:14), for observing the Spirit come down from heaven (1:32), for Jesus who notices the two disciples who follow him (1:38), for opening one s eyes to see the fields ready for the harvest (4:35), and for seeing a great crowd of people coming toward Jesus (6:5). Also note ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.11.45|AUTODETECT|”
John 11:45) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=62.4.12|AUTODETECT|”
and ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=62.4.12|AUTODETECT|”
I John 4:12) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=62.4.14|AUTODETECT|”
, ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=62.4.14|AUTODETECT|”
14) 7 1 -1 9 0 0
where he uses the same verb. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
_ftn6
10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref6”
5 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0
B. F. Westcott observes, The tacit reference is the more worthy of notice because St John does not mention the fact of the Resurrection in his Epistle; nor does he use the word in his own narrative of the Resurrection. See ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0
The Epistles of St. John, The Greek Text, with Notes and Addenda) 7 1 -1 9 0 0
(1883; Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1966), p. 6. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
_ftn7
10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref7”
6 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0
Some translations follow the word order of the Greek text and have the reading ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0
concerning the word of life) 7 1 -1 9 0 0
(RSV, NKJV, NASB, and see KJV). Others supply the verb ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0
to write) 7 1 -1 9 0 0
We write [are writing] to you about the Word of life (GNB, MLB). Still others borrow the verb ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 to proclaim) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 from the context and have the wording This is what we proclaim to you (NAB and with modification NIV). The NEB has the verb ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 to tell) 7 1 -1 9 0 0
it is of this we tell. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn8 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref8” 7 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 M. de Jonge writes, The exegesis we prefer presupposes that the word ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 logos) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.1-62.1.4|AUTODETECT|” [word] used in the Greek must be seen against the background of the Prologue of the Gospel, and, consequently, refers to Jesus Christ. An Analysis of ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.1-62.1.4|AUTODETECT|” I John 1. 1 4) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 The Bible Translator) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 29 (1978): 327. Donald W. Burdick agrees that the weight of evidence favors the personal meaning of the term. See ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 The Letters of John the Apostle) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (Chicago: Moody, 1985), p. 100. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn9 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref9” 8 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Refer to Bertold Klappert, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 NIDNTT) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , vol. 3, p. 1114. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn10 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref10” 9 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Both in the Gospel and in his first epistle, John employs the expression ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 eternal life) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 repeatedly. In the Gospel it occurs seventeen times (3:15, 16, 36; 4:14, 36; 5:24, 39; 6:27, 40, 47 [everlasting], 54, 68; 10:28; 12:25, 50; 17:2, 3). And in I John it appears six times (1:2; 2:25; 3:15; 5:11, 13, 20). ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn11 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref11” 10 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.2|AUTODETECT|” In the Greek the verb occurs thirty-three times in the Gospel and ten times in the epistles 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.2|AUTODETECT|” I John 1:2) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.14|AUTODETECT|” 4:14) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.6|AUTODETECT|” 5:6) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.7|AUTODETECT|”
  1. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.9|AUTODETECT|”
  2. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.10|AUTODETECT|”
  3. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.3|AUTODETECT|” III John 3) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.6|AUTODETECT|”
  4. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.12|AUTODETECT|”
  5. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 [twice]). ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn12 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref12” 11 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The NIV omits the word ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 also) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 of a verbatim translation: What we have seen and heard we proclaim to you ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 also) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (NASB, italics added). Although textual evidence favors including the word, translators tend to delete it because it is redundant. In the next clause, the term ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 also) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 appears once more: so that you also may have fellowship with us. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn13 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref13” 12 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Refer to Greijdanus, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Johannes) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , pp. 392 93; Brooke, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Commentary on the Johannine Epistles) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 8. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn14 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref14” 13 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The combination ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Jesus Christ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 occurs six times (1:3; 2:1; 3:23; 4:2; 5:6, 20). The clause ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 that Jesus is the Christ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 appears twice (2:22; 5:1). ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn15 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref15” 14 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 With variations the expression ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Son of God) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 occurs sixteen times (1:3, 7; 3:8, 23; 4:9, 10, 15; 5:5, 9, 10 [twice], 11, 12, 13, 20 [twice]). And the term ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Son) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 appears six times (2:22, 23 [twice], 24; 4:14; 5:12). ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn16 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref16” 15 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Consult Donald Guthrie, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 New Testament Theology) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (Downers Grove: Inter-Varsity, 1981), p. 316. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn17 11 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref17” NKJV ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 New King James Version ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn18 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref18” 16 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 C. H. Dodd, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 The Johannine Epistles) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , Moffatt New Testament Commentary series (New York: Harper and Row, 1946), pp. 9 10. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn19 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref19” 17 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Eusebius ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Ecclesiastical History) 7 1 -1 9 0 0
    1. Also consult Simon J. Kistemaker, ed., ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Interpreting God s Word Today) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1970), p. 82. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn20 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref20” 18 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Friedrich Blass and Albert Debrunner, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 A Greek Grammar of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , trans. and rev. Robert Funk (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1961), sec. 342(2). Also consult Robert Hanna, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 A Grammatical Aid to the Greek New Testament) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1983), p. 433. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn21 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref21” 19 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Refer to A. T. Robertson, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 A Grammar of the Greek New Testament in the Light of Historical Research) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (Nashville: Broadman, 1934), p. 713. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn22 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref22” 20 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 C. F. D. Moule, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 An Idiom-Book of New Testament Greek) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , 2d ed. (Cambridge: At the University Press, 1960), p. 165. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn23 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref23” 21 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Bruce M. Metzger, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 A Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , corrected ed. (London and New York: United Bible Societies, 1975), p. 708. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn24 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref24” 22 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Ibid., p. 708. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn25 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref25” 23 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Robertson, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Grammar) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , pp. 907 8. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn26 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref26” 24 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 John follows the regular Greek word order in other passages of this epistle, where similar constructions occur without emphasis (see 2:25; 3:11; 5:11). ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn27 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref27” 25 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Refer to Ulrich Becker and Dietrich M�ller, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 NIDNTT) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , vol. 3, p. 47. They write, The content of the proclamation is both for information, or reminding of the saving event, and commandment. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn28 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref28” 26 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Thomas F. Torrance, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Christian Theology and Scientific Culture) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (New York: Oxford University Press, 1981), p. 96. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn29 11 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref29” NIV ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 New International Version ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn30 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref30” 27 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Hans-Christoph Hahn, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 NIDNTT) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , vol. 2, p. 493. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn31 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref31” 28 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Consult Walter Thomas Conner, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 The Epistles of John) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , 2d and rev. ed. (Nashville: Broadman, 1957), p. 21. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn32 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref32” 29 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 John Calvin, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Commentaries on the Catholic Epistles: The First Epistle of John) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , ed. and trans. John Owen (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1948), p. 164. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn33 11 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref33” KJV ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 King James Version ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn34 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref34” 30 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Refer to Neil Alexander, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 The Epistles of John, Introduction and Commentary) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , Torch Bible Commentaries series (London: SCM, 1962), p. 49. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn35 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref35” 31 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Refer to Westcott, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 The Epistles of St. John) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 22. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn36 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref36” 32 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Consult Dieter F�rst, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 NIDNTT) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , vol. 1, p. 346; Dodd, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 The Johannine Epistles) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 23. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn37 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref37” 33 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Compare J. R. W. Stott, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 The Epistles of John: An Introduction and Commentary) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , Tyndale New Testament Commentaries series (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1964), p. 77. And see Brooke, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Commentary on the Johannine Epistles) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 19. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn38 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref38” 34 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 J. D. Pentecost, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 The Joy of Fellowship) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1977), p. 31. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn39 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref39” 35 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Robertson, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Grammar) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 998; and see Blass and Debrunner, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 Greek Grammar) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , sec. 391(5). ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn40 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref40” 36 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Consult Burdick, ) 9 1 -1 9 0 0 The Letters of John the Apostle) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 128. )
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