1 John 5

-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 7 StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size -9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 jBiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 44 2 8 0 0 5. Love God, part 2) 5:1 12) and Epilogue) 5:13 21) ) Outline (continued)) 5:1 4 E. Faith in God s Son ) 5:1 2 1. Believe in the Son ) 5:3 4 2. Overcome the World ) 5:5 12 F. Accept God s Testimony ) 5:5 1.

Jesus Is the Son of God ) 5:6 8 2. Jesus and the Spirit ) 5:9 10 3. Testimony of God ) 5:11 12 4. Eternal Life ) 5:13 21 V. Epilogue ) 5:13 15 A. Ask According to God s Will ) 5:13 1.

Eternal Life ) 5:14 15 2. Answered Prayer ) 5:16 17 B. Pray for Remission ) 5:18 21 C. Know the Son of God ) 5:18 1. Born of God ) 5:19 2. Children of God ) 5:20 3.

Son of God ) 5:21 4. An Admonition ) ) ) ) ) E. Faith in God s Son) 5:1 4) 5 1 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves the father loves his child as well. 2 This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands. 3 This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome, 4 for everyone born of God has overcome the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.) ) 1. Believe in the Son) 5:1 2) John repeats the theme of Christ s sonship which he expounded earlier (2:22; 4:15).

Near the end of his epistle, he wants to tell his readers that Christ s sonship secures their relation to God: everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is a son or daughter of God. The recipients of the letter should know that they are children of God through faith in Jesus Christ. This faith characterizes them as Christians who express their love for him by obeying God s commands.) 1. Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves the father loves his child as well. 2. This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands.) We note three points:) a. Faith) In this chapter John frequently uses the verb to believe.��1�� He develops the significance of believing in Jesus Christ by declaring that everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God.

When John says everyone, he indicates that the Christian religion excludes no one. Anyone who sincerely puts his faith in Jesus is a child of God.) The main verb in the sentence is born and the phrase everyone who believes is its subject. This means that the believer is the child of God the Father, for God causes the spiritual birth of his child. The believer s faith in God is irrefutable evidence of his spiritual birth. He knows that Jesus is the Christ because the believer has been born of God.��2�� Faith in Jesus Christ is inseparably bound to love for God s children.) b. Love) Everyone who loves the father loves his child as well.

The second part of verse 1 links faith and love. The one cannot exist without the other, and together they demonstrate the vibrant spiritual life of the child of God. John Calvin observes, Since God regenerates us by faith, he must necessarily be loved by us as a Father; and this love embraces all his children. ��3�� In essence, faith and love are inseparable. In God s family, faith in God and love for him and his children are totally integrated.) What evidence is there for combining faith and love? John provides a ready answer. He writes, This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands.

Actually these words are almost a verbatim repetition of an earlier verse, We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands (2:3; and see 3:23).) c. Obedience) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.10|AUTODETECT|” John states that love for God s children must be coupled with love for God to be genuine.��4�� And love for God can be true only if we obey his laws. Notice that John gives the reader a statement that consists of three parts: love for the children of God; love for God; and obedience to his commands. If any part of the statement is to be valid, it has to be linked to the other two parts. In effect, John reiterates the teachings of Jesus on this particular subject. Jesus said, If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father s commands and remain in his love 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.10|AUTODETECT|” John 15:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; compare 14:15).) 1 11 2 8 0 0 ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 5:1 2) Verse 1) ���������� this perfect passive verb from ������ (I beget) is followed by the active participle ���������� (referring to God). This participle is in the aorist to express single occurrence. The verb is also followed by the passive participle ������������ (referring to the child of God), in the perfect to indicate lasting significance.) Verse 2) � ����� this combination occurs frequently in this epistle. It can point either to the preceding or to the succeeding context. Here it looks forward.) ������� a few manuscripts have the reading ������� (we keep) to harmonize it with the next verse (v. 3) and other passages (2:3, 4, 5; 3:22, 24).��5�� At least two translations have adopted this reading (KJV, NKJV).) 2. Overcome the World) 5:3 4) 3.

This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome, 4. for everyone born of God has overcome the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.) a. Love for God. John is the New Testament writer who provides a number of pithy definitions. For example, in his Gospel he defines eternal life (17:3) and in his first epistle he repeatedly explains spiritual truths (consult 2:5 6; 3:10, 23, 24; 4:2, 10; 5:14).

Here he states what love for God means: to obey his commands. Love for God does not consist of spoken words, even if they are well-intentioned, but of determined action that demonstrates obedience to God s commands.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.30|AUTODETECT|” b. His commands are not burdensome. John reiterates the words of Jesus, For my yoke is easy and my burden is light 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.30|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 11:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.4|AUTODETECT|” ). The Pharisees and scribes placed unnecessary demands upon the Jewish people of the first century. They added to the Decalogue hundreds of manmade rules that were burdensome to the people 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.4|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 23:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.46|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.46|AUTODETECT|” Luke 11:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��6��) 1 1 2 8 0 0 For the person who refuses to acknowledge Jesus as the Son of God, the commands are a threat to man s self-proclaimed freedom. They are a hindrance to his lifestyle and a constant source of irritation.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.30.11-5.30.14|AUTODETECT|” The child of God, however, knows that God has given him laws for his own protection. As long as he stays within the area delineated by these laws he is safe, for in it he has his own spiritual environment. Therefore, the believer can do anything he pleases within the confines of God s commands 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.30.11-5.30.14|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 30:11 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.47|AUTODETECT|” Augustine aptly remarks, Love and do what you please. The Christian desires to obey God s precepts. With the psalmist he says, I delight in [God s] commands because I love them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.47|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 119:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.22|AUTODETECT|” ; also see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.22|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Although John s teaching holds for all God s precepts, the context of verse 3 refers to the commands to believe in Jesus as the Son of God and to love the children of God (v. 1).��7��) 1 1 2 8 0 0 c. Everyone born of God. The Greek says, all that is born of God. John wants to place the emphasis not on the individual person but, in general, on all people who have experienced spiritual birth.��8��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” d. Has overcome the world. All who have their birth in God have overcome the world and therefore can claim victory already. They know that Jesus said, Take heart! I have overcome the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” John 16:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Because Jesus has been victorious, we, too, are victorious with him. Jesus has overcome the evil one in this world and has set his people free from the power of Satan. The battle has thus been decided, even if it is not yet over. ��9��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.37-45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” e. This is the victory. Note that John does not say, This is the victor. He writes the victory to show that the concept itself is significant. Victory and faith are synonymous. John tells his readers that their faith has overcome the world. Their faith, of course, is in Jesus Christ, the Son of God. When believers place their faith in Jesus, then nothing can separate them from the love of God in Christ Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.37-45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:37 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.57|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.57|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:57) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). No evil forces in this world are able to overpower the person who trusts in Jesus. Instead, the believer is victorious over the world because of his faith in the Son of God.) 1 11 2 8 0 0 Faith is the victory?) Faith is the victory?) Oh, glorious victory,) That overcomes the world.) John H. Yates) ) Practical Considerations in 5:4) Heroes usually are public idols. The younger generation especially adores and imitates successful men and women.) The Bible portrays its heroes, too. Think of David after he killed Goliath. At that time, the women in Israel sang songs in his honor:) Saul has slain his thousands,) and David his tens of thousands. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.18.7|AUTODETECT|” [) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.18.7|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 18:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ]) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.4-58.11.32|AUTODETECT|” As he walks through the gallery which features the portraits of the heroes of faith, the writer of Hebrews points to numerous people 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.4-58.11.32|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 11:4 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). When we look at these heroes, we tend to regard them as being superhuman. But these men and women were ordinary people who had to face trials and temptations that all of us encounter. What, then, makes them great? Their faith in God made them conquer, and their enduring faithfulness to the truth of God s Word made them victorious.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Are we who are common people able to claim victory? Yes, here is the reason: The word overcome is significant in the seven letters Jesus instructed John to write to the seven churches in Asia Minor. Note that at the conclusion of each letter Jesus specifically addresses him who overcomes 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.5|AUTODETECT|” 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Jesus directs his words to common people who are members of local churches. When they are faithful to the end, they indeed are heroes of faith.) 1 29 2 8 0 0 ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 5:3 4) Verse 3) �U�� this demonstrative pronoun in the feminine singular stands first in the sentence to denote emphasis.) ! ���� ��� ���� the objective genitive. Compare the phrase with that in 2:5 (and 15); 3:17; 4:7, 9.) 5�� the use of the particle in this context is either equivalent to a recitative (indicated by a colon) or to the conjunction E�� (that).��10�� Also see verse 11.) Verse 4) �������� the aorist tense of this participle from ����� (I conquer) is timeless. That is, the aorist expresses a fact that is always true.) ! ������ this noun stands in apposition to ! ����.��11��) ) F. Accept God s Testimony) 5:5 12) 5 Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.) 6 This is the one who came by water and blood Jesus Christ. He did not come by water only, but by water and blood.

And it is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth. 7 For there are three that testify: 8 the Spirit, the water and the blood; and the three are in agreement. 9 We accept man s testimony, but God s testimony is greater because it is the testimony of God, which he has given about his Son. 10 Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Anyone who does not believe God has made him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony God has given about his Son. 11 And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.) ) 1. Jesus Is the Son of God) 5:5) Verse 5 serves as a bridge between the preceding and the following context. Some editors and translators perceive this verse to be part of the preceding passage (vv. 1 5); others place it in the next paragraph (vv. 5 12).��12�� I prefer the latter, because the theme of Jesus divine sonship stands at the beginning, in the middle, and at the end of this paragraph (see vv. 5, 9 [his Son], 10, 12).��13��) 5. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.) John begins this verse with an interrogative statement.

He asks who this person is that conquers the world. John does not write, Who is the victor over this world? By using a participle that is translated as a verb , he describes the continuing activity of conquering the world. The noun victor calls attention only to the function of the person.) In his answer, John states that the person who believes that Jesus is the Son of God conquers the world. Faith alone does not overcome the world. But faith in Jesus the Son of God enables the believer to rejoice in triumph.

Often faith in Jesus is weak, but when faith reveals itself in an unbreakable bond between Jesus and the believer, Jesus conquering power becomes visible in the believer.) 2. Jesus and the Spirit) 5:6 8) 6. This is the one who came by water and blood Jesus Christ. He did not come by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth. 7. For there are three that testify: 8. the Spirit, the water and the blood; and the three are in agreement.) Observe the following points:) a.

Came) The person to whom John alludes is obviously Jesus Christ, the Son of God. The terms Christ (v. 1) and Son of God (v. 5) are synonyms. John uses the past tense to indicate that the coming of Jesus is a historical event. He asserts a historical fact that is irrefutable.) How did Jesus come? Says John, by water and blood. By themselves, the words water and blood are quite intelligible, but what do they mean with reference to Jesus?

Although interpretations are many and varied, scholars generally agree that the phrase relates to the history of Jesus. That is, the terms water and blood refer respectively to the beginning of Jesus ministry marked by his baptism in the Jordan River and to his death on Calvary s cross.) Two other views deserve recognition. First, some scholars link the terms water and blood to the two sacraments: baptism and the Lord s Supper. But whereas the word water literally stands for baptism, the expression blood has only symbolical significance in the Lord s Supper. Moreover, the term blood is never used to represent the sacrament of Holy Communion. And this is a serious objection.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.34|AUTODETECT|” Second, other commentators think that the phrase water and blood refers to the wound in Jesus side from which blood and water flowed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.34|AUTODETECT|” John 19:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). But one of the major objections to this theory is that it does not answer the question why Jesus came through water and blood.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 He did not come by water only, but by water and blood. John may have written these words to combat the heretical movement known as Gnosticism. One representative, Cerinthus, taught that the divine Christ descended upon Jesus at the time of his baptism and left him before he died on the cross (see the comments at 2:22).��14�� The Gnostics claimed that Christ did not experience death. In opposition to this Gnostic heresy, which presumably had just begun to exert itself when John wrote his epistle, John teaches the historical veracity of Jesus Christ: the Son of God began his earthly ministry when he was baptized; he completed this ministry when he shed his blood and died.) b. Testify) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.20|AUTODETECT|” John continues, And it is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth. The word testify is rather significant in this paragraph.��15�� The Spirit is testifying as a witness to the birth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.35|AUTODETECT|” [conception]; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.35|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.25-42.2.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.25-42.2.32|AUTODETECT|” 2:25 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ), baptism 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.63|AUTODETECT|” ), teaching 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.63|AUTODETECT|” John 6:63) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ), and ministry of Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.1|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.26|AUTODETECT|” ). John affirms the words of Jesus: When the Counselor comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father, he will testify about me 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.26|AUTODETECT|” John 15:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��16�� The Spirit continues to testify to God s truth with reference to the person and work of Jesus.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 John states the reason for the testifying work of the Spirit. He writes, Because the Spirit is the truth. John identifies the Spirit with the truth and alludes to the words of Jesus, I am & the truth. That is, both Jesus and the Spirit have their essence in the truth. The Spirit testifies because of his identity with the truth in Jesus.) For there are three that testify: the Spirit, the water and the blood. Of the English-language translations, only two (KJV, NKJV) have the expanded verses (vv. 7 8).

For there are three who bear witness in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness on earth (NKJV). The translators of the New King James Version, however, state in a footnote that the Greek New Testaments (Nestle-Aland, United Bible Societies, and Majority Text) omit the words from in heaven (v. 7) through on earth (v. 8). Only four or five very late Greek manuscripts contain these words.��17��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.31.48|AUTODETECT|” John actually writes that three (Spirit, water, and blood) are testifying. But why does John place the historical facts of Jesus baptism (water) and death (blood), to which the Spirit testifies, on the same level as the Spirit? How can water and blood testify along with the Spirit? We need to look at the text from a Semitic point of view. Impersonal objects can testify; for example, the heap of stones Jacob and Laban put together was called a witness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.31.48|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 31:48) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.19.15|AUTODETECT|” ). And according to the Mosaic law 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.19.15|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 19:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), One witness is not enough.& A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses. ��18��) 1 13 2 8 0 0 c. Agree) John writes that the three are in agreement. He means that all three witnesses say the same thing; before a court of law the factual evidence of Jesus baptism (water) and death (blood) is in complete agreement with the testimony of the Holy Spirit. A person cannot accept either one or two of the witnesses and omit the third. All three stand together.) Many scholars suggest that the terms water and blood in verse 8 refer to the sacraments of baptism and the Lord s Supper.��19�� However, the difficulty with this view is that the Spirit, whom John mentions first in rank, cannot become a third sacrament. Because John gives no indication that the phrase water and blood has a meaning different from that in verse 6, we do well to accept the same interpretation for verses 6 and 8.) ) Doctrinal Considerations in 5:5 8) If we understand water and blood to represent the baptism and death of Christ, we think of the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ.

Jesus identified himself with his people when he was baptized, and he redeemed them when he died on the cross. Water and blood, therefore, are redemptive symbols for the believer.) The believer accepts the truth that Jesus Christ came by water and blood. He knows that the Spirit testifies to this truth. Moreover, he believes that the Son of God came to cleanse his people from sin and to redeem them through his death. For the believer, then, these truths are basic.) As soon as we reduce the death of Jesus to that of a mere man, so soon do we lose the cardinal point of the New Testament doctrine of atonement, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself.& So-called theologies, which reduce talk of the incarnation to the status of myth, may be attractive to modern men, but they take away our assurance that God s character is sin-bearing love.��20��) ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 5:6 8) Verse 6) A ���� whereas the present participle A �������� (the One who is coming) designates the Messiah, the aorist ���� denotes the fulfillment of his coming and points to a historic event.) ��� U����� ��v �5����� here the definite article is absent, but in the prepositional phrase beginning with � both nouns have the definite article. The preposition ��� conveys the meaning by or through,��21�� and the preposition � connotes accompanying circumstance.

Robert Hanna observes, Both the idea of accompaniment and instrumentality appear to be present in the prepositional phrase here. ��22��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.5|AUTODETECT|” �5����� influenced by ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.5|AUTODETECT|” John 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , some copyists wrote ��������� either as a substitution for �5����� or as an addition. However, this substitution or addition does not have the support of the better manuscripts.) 1 7 2 8 0 0 Verses 7 8) ������������ after this participle, the Textus Receptus (the Received Text) adds the so-called Comma Johanneum (the Johannine passage): in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness on earth (NKJV). Bruce M. Metzger states: The passage is absent from every known Greek manuscript except four, and these contain the passage in what appears to be a translation from a late recension of the Latin Vulgate. And he adds, If the passage were original, no good reason can be found to account for its omission & by copyists of hundreds of Greek manuscripts. ��23��) 3. Testimony of God) 5:9 10) In verses 6 9, John indirectly introduces the Trinity.

Notice that in verse 6, he states that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, has come. In the same verse and verse 8, John says that the Spirit testifies. And in verse 9, he mentions the testimony of God (the Father).) 9. We accept man s testimony, but God s testimony is greater because it is the testimony of God, which he has given about his Son.) a. We accept man s testimony. In Greek, this is a simple conditional sentence that is true to fact: If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater (NASB).

John expresses a timeless truth and, therefore, the conditional element in the sentence has lost its force. John is saying that customarily we accept man s testimony.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.32|AUTODETECT|” If we consider this verse in the broader context of Scripture, we see that the expression man s testimony is a reference to John the Baptist. Jesus said of the Baptist, There is another who testifies in my favor, and I know that his testimony about me is valid 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.32|AUTODETECT|” John 5:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In that same context, Jesus added, I have testimony weightier [greater] than that of John.& And the Father who sent me has himself testified concerning me (vv. 36 37). Perhaps John has these words of Jesus in mind when he compares the testimony of man with that of God.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 b. But God s testimony is greater. John focuses attention not on our acceptance of God s testimony but on the significance of that testimony. God s word is unquestionably true and thus in comparison with the testimony of man is much weightier.) What is this testimony? In light of the immediately preceding passage, I suggest that it is the testimony of the Spirit, water, and blood.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.17|AUTODETECT|” c. The testimony of God, which he has given about his Son. This testimony includes the voice that spoke from heaven at Jesus baptism 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.17.5|AUTODETECT|” ), at his transfiguration 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.17.5|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 17:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.28|AUTODETECT|” ), and at his triumphant entry into Jerusalem 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.28|AUTODETECT|” John 12:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). John uses the perfect tense to indicate that God continues to testify about his son through his Word and Spirit.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 10. Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Anyone who does not believe God has made him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony God has given about his Son.) Throughout the epistle John uses contrast and this text is no exception. First he states the positive and then the negative.) a. Positive) In verse 10, belief in the Son of God is central; it is part of the message John teaches in verses 1 12, namely, faith in Jesus as the Son of God. Believing, says John, is a continuous act. That is, faith is a lasting and active power that resides in the heart of the believer. Faith is the constant bond between the Son of God and the believer.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.33|AUTODETECT|” Note that John states specifically that faith is believing in the Son of God. The preposition in means that the believer puts full trust and confidence in Jesus Christ, the Son of God. The believer has accepted the testimony 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.33|AUTODETECT|” John 3:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.16|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) which God, through the Spirit, has given about his Son. And this testimony which comes to him through external witnesses is now lodged in his heart and has become an integral part of his spiritual life.) 1 16 2 8 0 0 b. Negative) The second part of verse 10 is not a parallel of the first part. Instead of writing, Anyone who does not believe in the Son of God, John says, Anyone who does not believe God. He places the emphasis on God, who has given man testimony about his Son. Man, however, cannot accept this testimony merely for information. He does not have the freedom to take or leave it without obligation, for God gives him this testimony with royal authority.

When man rejects God s testimony, he has made and continues to make God a liar (compare 1:10). And this is a serious offense, because rejection of God s Word constitutes deliberate unbelief.) John addressed the false teachers of his day, who said that they believed in God but rejected the birth and the death of his Son. John, however, addresses his word to anyone who rejects God s testimony. That is, the unbeliever takes full responsibility for his choice. Unbelief is not a misfortune to be pitied; it is a sin to be deplored. ��24�� The unbeliever s sin lies first in his intentional refusal to believe God s testimony about his Son and second, in his arrogant denial that the Father and the Son are one. Man cannot say that he has faith in God and at the same time reject God s testimony about Jesus Christ.) ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 5:9 10) Verse 9) �0 the particle introduces a simple fact condition.

The verb ���������� is timeless.) E�� the first one is causal (because) and the second an objective particle ��25�� that is equivalent to the relative pronoun which.) ������������ the perfect tense applies to instances that occurred in the past during Jesus earthly ministry. And it refers to God s testimony given today.) Verse 10) ��������� and ����������� in the perfect active tense, these two verbs describe action that took place in the past and that continues in the present.) �� ��� some manuscripts have �� �1�. This reading arose from a desire to make the negative clause correspond more exactly to the preceding positive clause. ��26��) 4. Eternal Life) 5.11 12) 11. And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.) John comes to the concluding thought of his discourse on the Son of God.

He specifically states the content of God s testimony and eliminates any misunderstanding about God s Son.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.17|AUTODETECT|” What is the content of God s testimony? God has given us eternal life. Notice that John is addressing believers when he uses the first person pronoun us. He does not say that eternal life will be given (future tense) but that God has given it (past tense) to us. We have this life now in principle 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.17|AUTODETECT|” John 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and when we enter the presence of God in glory, we will have it fully.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.36|AUTODETECT|” And this life is in his Son. The way to obtain eternal life is by believing in the Son of God. Even though John does not say this here, in his Gospel he is explicit: Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God s wrath remains on him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.36|AUTODETECT|” John 3:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; also see 3:15; 20:31).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=63.1.9|AUTODETECT|” He who has the Son has life. Parallels to this statement are in 2:23 and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=63.1.9|AUTODETECT|” II John 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” . The word has stands for fellowship with Christ. It means that in faith the believer has accepted Jesus Christ as the Son of God, who said, I am & the life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” John 14:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Therefore, because of faith, God s Son and the believer are inseparable.) 1 24 2 8 0 0 The converse is also true. He who does not have the Son of God does not have life. The person who refuses to acknowledge Jesus as Son of God will never possess life. Instead he faces eternal death (compare 3:14).) In conclusion, by placing our faith in Jesus Christ we receive the gift of life. Because of our faith, Christ lives in us and we in him (3:24; 5:20). Therefore, at present we already possess eternal life and joyfully sing,) Yes, in me, in me he dwelleth;) I in him, and he in me!) And my empty soul he filleth,) Here and through eternity.) Horatius Bonar) ) Practical Considerations in 5:9 12) Daily we meet numerous people who advise us what we should know, do, or need.

Much of this informative advice we take for granted and even ignore. Intellectually we may accept advice, but it does not become part of us until we are fully convinced of its validity.) We generally heed advice concerning our physical well-being, because it concerns the quality of our life. For example, someone informs us that the weather outside is cold and windy. We will not know how cold it is, however, until we have stepped outdoors to feel the temperature and experience the chill factor. Then we know if our clothing is adequate to keep us physically comfortable.) When John says that we believe God s testimony about his Son, we know this in our heart. That testimony becomes part of us because of our personal relationship with Jesus.

We experience his nearness, his help, and his love because we have fellowship with him and the Father. Accordingly, we are able to testify that God s testimony is in our hearts.) ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 5:11) E�� in this text the conjunction can be translated that or it can be understood as a recitative, indicated by a colon (NIV)) ) V. Epilogue) 5:13 21) A. Ask According to God s Will) 5:13 15) 13 I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. 14 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 15 And if we know that he hears us whatever we ask we know that we have what we asked of him.) ) 1. Eternal Life) 5:13) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.31|AUTODETECT|” The similarity of the conclusion of John s Gospel to that of his first epistle is undeniable. Both in the Gospel and in the epistle, John states the purpose of his writings: to have eternal life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.31|AUTODETECT|” John 20:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.13|AUTODETECT|” I John 5:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Some translators consider verse 13 part of the preceding paragraph or a separate concluding verse.��27�� Others see the epilogue introduced by verse 13.��28��) 13. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.12|AUTODETECT|” John sums up what he has said throughout his epistle. The words these things refer to the entire letter. But note that John writes the letter to Christians who believe in the name of the Son of God. He addresses the people who continue to put their faith in God s Son. In an earlier chapter he informed them of one of God s commands: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.12|AUTODETECT|” John 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). John repeats the term name to indicate the full revelation of the Son of God. That is, anyone who believes in the name of God s Son receives forgiveness of sins and eternal life.��29�� In this epistle and especially in this chapter, John elucidates his theme: believe in the name of the Son of God. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.31|AUTODETECT|” John combines the verbs to believe and to know in verse 13. By contrast, he concludes his Gospel with the words, These [things] are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.31|AUTODETECT|” John 20:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.12|AUTODETECT|” ). In verse 13, however, he adds the concept to know, namely, to know with certainty.��30�� When he writes, so that you may know, he does not mean to come to know but to have assurance. Believers have the assurance of eternal life and the right to be children of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.12|AUTODETECT|” John 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 12 2 8 0 0 ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 5:13) ����� the epistolary aorist takes the place of the present. This idiom is merely a matter of standpoint. The writer looks at his letter as the recipient will. ��31�� Also see 2:14, 26.) �0���� preceded by 5��, this verb in the perfect subjunctive from �6�� (I know) is part of a purpose clause.) ���� the verb is between the noun ���� (life) and the adjective �0����� (eternal) for reasons of emphasis and unity.) ���� ����������� Textus Receptus and the Majority Text, with the King James Version and the New King James Version, have an expanded text: who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God (NKJV). This expanded reading does not seem to be original in view of a possible scribal assimilation to the statement in J[oh]n 20.31. ��32��) 2. Answered Prayer) 5:14 15) 14. This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 15.

And if we know that he hears us whatever we ask we know that we have what we asked of him.) These two verses repeat the words John wrote earlier: We have confidence before God and receive from him anything we ask (3:21 22).) Observe the following points:) (a) Confidence The Greek word John uses here and elsewhere is translated assurance or confidence (2:28; 3:21; 4:17). What he means is that because of the gift of eternal life (v. 13), the believer has the confidence, that is the freedom, to approach God in prayer anywhere and anytime. As a child of God he freely comes to God with his praise and petitions.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.39|AUTODETECT|” (b) Will In the presence of God, we have the freedom to ask for anything because we know that God hears us. Indeed, God grants us the freedom to ask whatever we wish, but he adds one condition: if we ask & according to his will. This is the biblical teaching on prayer. Even Jesus submits to the will of his Father. When he was in the Garden of Gethsemane he prayed, Yet not as I will, but as you will 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.39|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.13|AUTODETECT|” ). Moreover, Jesus teaches us to pray in his name, so that he may bring glory to the Father 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.13|AUTODETECT|” John 14:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��33��) 1 1 2 8 0 0 (c) Promise At first sight, verse 15 seems to be repetitious. But upon close examination, we learn that John tells the readers that God indeed hears their prayers. John confirms this confidence which we have in approaching God when he writes that we know that he hears us. And we, too, confirm that God answers prayer.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.17|AUTODETECT|” At times we experience that not every prayer we offer receives a positive answer. Then we should be ready to accept a negative response and know that God always gives us that which is good for our spiritual well-being. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.17|AUTODETECT|” James 1:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 8 2 8 0 0 Twice in verse 15 John writes the verb to know. He insists that we possess the assurance that God indeed hears our prayers and responds to them. We know that if we ask anything according to his will, God grants us our request. But why does John write, And if we know that he hears us ? Is John expressing doubt about the believer s knowledge that God hears us? Some translators change the word if to because. ��34�� Although this is an attractive solution, the difficulty is that the previous verse (v. 14) also has the particle if, yet it is not translated because.

Perhaps another way to explain the text is to repeat the words of the previous sentence. The text then says, And if we ask anything according to his will, we know that he hears us. This explanation is strengthened by John s assertion, whatever we ask [provided it is in accord with God s will]. ) John is definite when he writes, we know that we have what we asked of him. He does not use the future tense we will have but the present tense we have. That is, now already we possess what we asked. When we ask God anything in faith according to his will, we know that he hears us and will grant our petition in his time.) ) Practical Considerations in 5:14 15) How can we be sure that God hears and answers prayers?

John gives us the answer. He says that when, in submission to his will, we ask God in faith to grant us our request, we know that he hears us. We also know that we have what we asked. What proof do we have that this is so? When we pray the Lord s Prayer, we say, Give us today our daily bread. We actually claim that the bread which we request already belongs to us.

We do not pray for bread but for our bread. And we ask God to supply it today. In short, we have what we asked of him (5:15).) ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 5:14 15) Verse 14) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.24|AUTODETECT|” �0������ even though grammarians wish to see a distinction between the middle �0������ and the active �0����� this differentiation has only very limited validity 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.24|AUTODETECT|” John 16:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.4.3|AUTODETECT|” with 26; but also see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.4.3|AUTODETECT|” James 4:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��35��) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verse 15) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.40|AUTODETECT|” p� �4����� the combination of the particle �� and the indicative occurs frequently in the New Testament 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.40|AUTODETECT|” Luke 19:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.31|AUTODETECT|” Acts 8:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.8|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Some grammarians give the particle a causal meaning.��36��) 1 10 2 8 0 0 �������� the perfect active from �0��� (I ask) indicates that continued prayer is offered by the believer.) ) B. Pray for Remission) 5:16 17) 16 If anyone sees his brother commit a sin that does not lead to death, he should pray and God will give him life. I refer to those whose sin does not lead to death. There is a sin that leads to death. I am not saying that he should pray about that. 17 All wrongdoing is sin, and there is sin that does not lead to death.) ) We should never limit our prayers to personal needs. Rather, as brothers and sisters in the Lord, we need to exercise our corporate responsibility to pray for each other.

Especially when we notice a brother (or sister) committing a sin, we should pray to God for remission.) 16. If anyone sees his brother commit a sin that does not lead to death, he should pray and God will give him life. I refer to those whose sin does not lead to death. There is a sin that leads to death. I am not saying that he should pray about that. 17. All wrongdoing is a sin, and there is sin that does not lead to death.) John recapitulates his teaching on sin.

He has conveyed this teaching in every chapter of his epistle (1:7 9; 2:1 2, 12; 3:4 6, 8 9; 4:10). Now he speaks of sin and death, of prayer and life, and of wrongdoing and remission.) a. Sin) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.20|AUTODETECT|” If anyone sees his brother commit a sin that does not lead to death. When John writes brother in his epistle, he means a fellow believer.��37�� Whenever a member of the Christian community notices that a brother is falling into sin, he should pray to God on his behalf 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.20|AUTODETECT|” James 5:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 5 2 8 0 0 John distinguishes between a sin that does not lead to death and a sin that leads to death. In this passage he mentions the first kind three times and the second only once. He clearly implies that praying for the sinner who commits a sin that does not lead to death is the intent of his writing.��38��) What is the meaning of the word death? In addition to 5:16, where it occurs three times, the word appears twice in 3:14: We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love our brothers. Anyone who does not love remains in death. John is not thinking of physical death.��39�� Rather, he is referring to spiritual death.

He contrasts death with eternal life (3:15) to set apart the believer, who possesses this life, from the person who denies that Jesus is the Son of God (2:22 23) and who hates the believer (3:13).) Who, then, commits the sin that leads to death? The person who rejects Jesus as the Christ and who does not love the believer commits this sin. He does not share in the fellowship of the Father and the Son (1:3), and is excluded from eternal life (4:12). He left the Christian community because he did not really belong to it (2:19). He had been a pretender.��40��) b. Prayer) Although a believer commits sin (2:1), he does not practice the sin that leads to death.

If a brother sins, John counsels, the community ought to ask God to give him life. That is, God will forgive his sin and restore him to fellowship. John knows that in the Christian community many believers fall into sin. He uses the plural and writes, I refer to those whose sin does not lead to death. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.9|AUTODETECT|” Should the Christian community pray for the person who commits a sin that leads to death ? John does not call this person a brother. ��41�� Writes John, I am not saying that [the believer] should pray about that. In these words we hear the echo of Jesus voice when he prayed for his followers, I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.9|AUTODETECT|” John 17:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=63.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ). The false teachers whom John opposes in his epistle have gone out into the world (4:1), because they are from the world (v. 5). These teachers have directed their false doctrines against the believers, have been disruptive in the Christian community, and have demonstrated their hatred against the church 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=63.1.7|AUTODETECT|” II John 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Therefore, John adds his personal advice not to pray for them. Note that 5:16 is the only passage in this epistle that has the personal pronoun I.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 c. Comfort) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.10|AUTODETECT|” All wrongdoing is sin, and there is sin that does not lead to death. John calls attention to the seriousness of sin. Sin is lawlessness (3:4) and is always an affront to God. In fact, in the sight of God, sin is a transgression of his law and the person who stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking the whole law 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.10|AUTODETECT|” James 2:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 But not every sin leads to death. When a believer transgresses God s law, he does not deny the sonship of Christ and hate the church. Moreover, God stands ready to forgive his sin. John teaches that if we confess our sins, [God] is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness (1:9). God forgives sin when the sinner confesses and fellow Christians pray for him, for God will give him life. ) ) Doctrinal Considerations in 5:16 17) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.15.31|AUTODETECT|” The Old Testament makes a distinction between unintentional and intentional sin. When a person sins unintentionally, he is forgiven when the priest makes atonement for him. However, the person who sins intentionally blasphemes the Lord, despises his Word, and breaks his commands. That person must surely be cut off, says God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.15.31|AUTODETECT|” Num. 15:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; also see vv. 22 31).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Even though John distinguishes between two types of sin in verses 16 and 17, allusions to similar teachings in the Old Testament are entirely absent. We should listen to what John has to say and interpret his message in the historical and theological context of his day.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.28-58.10.29|AUTODETECT|” The writer of the Epistle to the Hebrews, by contrast, exhorts his readers not to turn away from the living God and uses examples and precepts from the Old Testament to strengthen his admonition. Says he, Anyone who rejected the law of Moses died without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. How much more severely do you think a man deserves to be punished who has trampled the Son of God under foot, who has treated as an unholy thing the blood of the covenant that sanctified him, and who has insulted the Spirit of grace? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.28-58.10.29|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 10:28 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; also consult 6:4 6).) 1 18 2 8 0 0 ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 5:16) �� this is a conditional sentence of the future more vivid type: the aorist subjunctive 4�� (from A���, I see) in the protasis and the future indicative �0����� (he will ask) in the apodosis. The aorist signifies single occurrence.) ���������� the present active participle denotes continued action. It is followed by the noun ������� (sin) as the cognate accusative that repeats the content of the verb.��42��) �� the negative particle with an implied participle expresses condition or prohibition. The negative particle in verse 17 is �P (not).) ����� although grammatical syntax requires that the subject of this verb be the same as that of �0�����, the meaning of the verbs demands that the one who prays is the believer and the one who gives life is God.) ������ the aorist subjunctive from ����� (I ask, request) is in a clause that indicates indirect command. In this verse, the verb ����� is the same as the verb �0���.) ) C. Know the Son of God) 5:18 21) 18 We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the one who was born of God keeps him safe, and the evil one cannot harm him. 19 We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one. 20 We know also 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 even in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.) 21 Dear children, keep yourselves from idols.) ) 1. Born of God) 5:18) In the last part of his epistle, John summarizes three facts that his readers have learned. These facts relate to sin, the evil one, and the truth in Jesus Christ. John summarizes the principles he has taught and introduces each verse with the words we know.) 18. We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the one who was born of God keeps him safe, and the evil one cannot harm him.) Except for a minor variation in wording, the first part of this sentence is virtually identical to that of 3:9, No one who is born of God will continue to sin.

He repeats the thought by putting the words we know at the beginning. That is, he tells the readers that the person who has his origin in God does not keep on sinning without repentance (compare 3:6). A child of God may sin; but his normal condition is one of resistance to sin. ��43�� This is a well-known principle.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.17.12|AUTODETECT|” In the next clause, John presents a message that appears to be vague. What does he mean by the words The one who was born of God keeps him safe ? And who is kept safe? To begin with the last question, we conclude that the pronoun him refers to the believer whom God protects. If God keeps the believer safe, the phrase the one who was born of God must refer to Jesus Christ.��44�� This designation for Jesus, however, is unique; it does not appear anywhere else in the New Testament. Because both Jesus and the believer are called born of God, John differentiates by using the past tense was born for Jesus and the phrase born of God for the believer.

Furthermore, John places Jesus who was born of God over against the evil one. Jesus keeps the believers safe and asks God to protect them from the evil one 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.12|AUTODETECT|” John 17:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.17.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 8 2 8 0 0 And the evil one cannot harm him. Notice that John describes Satan as the evil one (2:13, 14; 3:12; 5:19). The evil one seeks to lay his hands on the believer but is unable to touch him because of God s protecting power. The word touch in this sentence means to harm or injure a person.��45�� Satan desires to lead us into sin and to control us permanently. But we who are children of God belong not to Satan but to God.) ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 5:18) A ��������� this is the aorist passive participle from the verb ������ (I beget). The aorist is timeless.) �P��� manuscript evidence for the reflexive pronoun ����� (himself) is strong.

However, internal evidence together with varied textual witnesses favors the personal pronoun �P��� (him).) 2. Children of God) 5:19) 19. We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.31|AUTODETECT|” Once again John uses the words we know to reassure us of the knowledge we have. He actually repeats the thought he expressed earlier: Dear friends, now we are children of God (3:1). We have our origin in God and belong to him. But the whole world, says John, is under the control of the evil one. He does not say that the world belongs to Satan, for Satan cannot lay claim to creating it. Jesus calls Satan the prince of this world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.31|AUTODETECT|” John 12:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.30|AUTODETECT|” 14:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.11|AUTODETECT|” 16:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.1-1.3.19|AUTODETECT|” ). From the biblical account 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.1-1.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 3:1 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.6|AUTODETECT|” ), we know that by deception Satan took control of the entire world. When Satan tempted Jesus, he showed him all the kingdoms of the world and said, I will give you all their authority and splendor, for it has been given to me 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , italics added). The whole world lies passively in his power. Nevertheless Satan knows that Jesus has come to drive him out and that Jesus claims the world which rightfully belongs to God.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 3. Son of God) 5:20) 20. We know also 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 even in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.) For the last time, John writes we know (3:2, 14; 5:18, 19, 20). This time, however, he reminds us of the coming of the Son of God and our understanding of Jesus.

Even though we see corruption in every sphere and sector of the world, we know that Jesus Christ has come to give us insight into his true nature.��46�� In a world of deceit and falsehood, God has revealed himself in the Son of God as the one who is true. God has not forsaken us to the powers of darkness, but has endowed us with the ability to discern truth from error.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.3|AUTODETECT|” God sent his Son so that we may know him who is true. The verb to know in this clause denotes knowledge we acquire by close association. In the fellowship we have with God the Father and his Son Jesus Christ (1:3), we come to know his truth. We learn to know what belongs to God and what comes from Satan. God is true. By true God [John] does not mean one who tells the truth, but him who is really God. ��47�� The adjective true is descriptive, for it reveals God s nature 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.3|AUTODETECT|” John 17:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.7|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 3:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” John says that in addition to learning to know God, we are in him who is true. That is, we have intimate fellowship with him through his Son Jesus Christ, who is the way and the truth and the life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” John 14:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.21|AUTODETECT|” ). We are in the Father and the Son. In his high-priestly prayer Jesus prayed, Just as you are in me and I am in you[,] may they also be in us 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.21|AUTODETECT|” John 17:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 And last, having woven the golden thread of Jesus divinity and sonship through the cloth of his epistle, John completes this verse with the following words: Even in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. The Gnostic teachers denied that Jesus was the Christ, Son of God. Therefore, in this last verse John summarizes the basic teaching of the Christian faith: Jesus Christ is the Son of God, is truly divine, and is eternal life.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.3|AUTODETECT|” The translators of the New International Version have adopted the reading He is the true God instead of This is the true God. ��48�� Some scholars say that the pronoun he refers to the nearest noun, Christ. Others vigorously dispute this view and claim that the pronoun refers to God the Father. They point to the wording in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.3|AUTODETECT|” John 17:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , the only true God, and see the parallel in 5:20. They have to admit, however, that their reading of verse 20 is redundant: And we are in [God] who is true & he is the true God. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.25|AUTODETECT|” Proponents of the first view argue, quite rightly, that John ascribes eternal life to Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.25|AUTODETECT|” John 11:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” 14:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). They also show that the entire epistle expounds the identity of Jesus, the Son of God. Therefore, a conclusive statement on the divinity of Jesus at the end of the letter is most effective. I believe that the supporters of this view, namely, that the pronoun he or this is a reference to Jesus and not to God, have the stronger argument.) 1 6 2 8 0 0 ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 5:20) A �����x� ���� the adjective describes God as real, true, and genuine. John chooses this word instead of the adjective ����� (truthful).) 4. An Admonition) 5:21) 21. Dear children, keep yourselves from idols.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.8.4|AUTODETECT|” This admonition comes without any explanation. That is, in the epistle John does not discuss idolatry. But from a historical perspective, we admit that John s admonition fits the context of first-century Christianity. Christians faced the pagan world and idol worship, as is evident from Acts (e.g., 15:29; 19:23 41) and the epistles of Paul 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.8.4|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 8:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.8.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.8.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.16|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 22 2 8 0 0 Here is another interpretation. We cannot rule out the possibility that John means that idols are false conceptions of God. ��49�� Then we see that John s warning to test the teachings of false prophets (4:1) harmonizes with his final admonition.) Guard yourselves, says John, from idols. He urges the believers to abstain from any form of worship that draws them away from Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. ) ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 5:21) �������� the aorist imperative is used for a precept which is valid until the coming of Christ. ��50��) Summary of Chapter 5) The subject of this chapter is the doctrine that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Throughout the chapter, John expounds this theme. He begins by stressing the unity that exists between God and the believer.

Love for God must coincide with love for the child of God. Love for God is expressed when the believer obeys God s commands. Moreover, the believer who is born of God overcomes the world, for he believes that Jesus is the Son of God.) Jesus came by water and blood; the Spirit testifies to the significant events that the words water and blood represent. We ought to accept God s testimony more readily than the testimony of man. Anyone who rejects the testimony of God concerning his Son makes God a liar. But the person who accepts this testimony has eternal life through the Son of God.) We have the assurance that God hears our prayers.

Provided our requests are in accordance with his will, God grants whatever we ask. The Christian community also prays for the brother who falls into sin. Nonetheless, John advises that we do not need to pray for the person who commits a sin that leads to death. Believers, however, do not commit this sin, for God keeps them safe. As believers, we know Jesus Christ. He is the Son of God and eternal life.

John concludes this chapter with the admonition to guard against false teachings.) ) ) ) ) 1 In this epistle the verb to believe occurs nine times (3:23; 4:1, 16 [rely, NIV]; 5:1, 5, 10 [three times], 13). The noun faith appears only in 5:4. Also see p. 318, n. 52.) 2 James Montgomery Boice remarks, We believe and, in fact, do everything else of a spiritual nature precisely because we have first been made alive. The Epistles of John (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1979), p. 153.) 3 John Calvin, Commentaries on the Catholic Epistles: The First Epistle of John, ed. and trans. John Owen (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1948), p. 250. Also see Alfred Plummer, The Epistles of St.

John, Cambridge Greek Testament for Schools and Colleges series (Cambridge: At the University Press, 1896), p. 111.) 4 C. H. Dodd comments, No doubt the author holds that love to God and love to man are so inseparable that the presence of either is evidence of the other. The Johannine Epistles, Moffatt New Testament Commentary series (New York: Harper and Row, 1946), p. 125.) 5 Consult Bruce M. Metzger, A Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament, corrected ed. (London and New York: United Bible Societies, 1975), p. 714.) KJV King James Version) NKJV New King James Version) 6 Consult Wilhelm Mundle, NIDNTT, vol. 1, p. 262. Gottlob Schrenk comments on the phrase his commands are not burdensome.

He writes, [This] phrase signifies removal of the category of difficult commands viewed by men as demanding extraordinary achievement. TDNT, vol. 1, p. 557.) 7 Compare S. Greijdanus, De Brieven van de Apostelen Petrus en Johannes, en de Brief van Judas, Kommentaar op het Nieuwe Testament series (Amsterdam: Van Bottenburg, 1929), p. 511.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.37|AUTODETECT|” 8 In Greek, John uses the neuter singular in the form all to indicate universality. For example, see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.37|AUTODETECT|” John 6:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.39|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.39|AUTODETECT|” 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.2|AUTODETECT|” 17:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 26 2 8 0 0 9 Walther G�nther, NIDNTT, vol. 1, p. 651. Also refer to Donald Guthrie, New Testament Theology (Downers Grove: Inter-Varsity, 1981), p. 133.) 10 Refer to A. T. Robertson, A Grammar of the Greek New Testament in the Light of Historical Research (Nashville: Broadman, 1934), p. 993. Also see H. E.

Dana and Julius Mantey, A Manual Grammar of the Greek New Testament (New York: Macmillan, 1967), p. 249.) 11 Consult Robertson, Grammar, p. 698.) 12 Editors of the Greek New Testament (Nestle-Aland [26th ed.] and Merk [9th ed.]), translators (JB), and commentators place verse 5 at the head of the following paragraph. Consult I. Howard Marshall, The Epistles of John, New International Commentary on the New Testament series (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1978), pp. 230 31; Raymond E. Brown, The Epistles of John, Anchor Bible series (Garden City, N.Y.: Doubleday, 1982), vol. 30, p. 592.) 13 Also consult the rest of the passages that call Jesus the Son of God (2:22, 23; 3:23; 4:15; 5:13).) 14 Brown states that there is little to establish a relationship between I John and Cerinthus, and that at most the author s adversaries may have been pre-Cerinthian in emphasizing baptism over death. The Epistles of John, p. 577. Also consult Irenaeus Against Heresies 3. 3. 4.) 15 Either as a verb, a participle, or a noun, the word testify appears ten times in the Greek text of verses 6 11.) 16 Refer to Lothar Coenen, NIDNTT, vol. 3, p. 1046.) 17 For further information, refer to Bruce M.

Metzger, The Text of the New Testament: Its Transmission, Corruption, and Restoration, 2nd ed. (New York and Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1968), pp. 101 2. And consult Henk Jan de Jonge, Erasmus and the Comma Johanneum, Ephemerides Theologicae Lovanienses 56 (1980): 381 89.) 18 Consult Brown, The Epistles of John, p. 581.) 19 Brown counts at least fourteen scholars and there are many more who give a sacramental interpretation to verse 8. Here are a few: Rudolf Bultmann, The Johannine Epistles, ed. Robert W. Funk, trans. R.

Philip O Hara et al., Hermeneia: A Critical and Historical Commentary on the Bible (Philadelphia: Fortress, 1973), p. 80; Glenn W. Barker, 1 John, the Expositor s Bible Commentary, ed. Frank E. Gaebelein, 12 vols. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1981), vol. 12, p. 351; Dodd, The Johannine Epistles, p. 131.) 20 Marshall, The Epistles of John, pp. 233 34.) 21 Consult Robertson, Grammar, p. 583. Also see C. F.

D. Moule, An Idiom-Book of New Testament Greek, 2d ed. (Cambridge: At the University Press, 1960), p. 57.) 22 Robert Hanna, A Grammatical Aid to the Greek New Testament (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1983), p. 438. And refer to Robertson, Grammar, p. 589.) 23 Metzger, Textual Commentary, pp. 715, 716.) NASB New American Standard Bible) 24 J. R. W. Stott, The Epistles of John: An Introduction and Commentary, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1964), p. 182.) 25 Robertson, Grammar, p. 964.) 26 Metzger, Textual Commentary, p. 717.) NIV New International Version) 27 For example, refer to JB, NAB, NKJV.) 28 Here are a few: GNB, NEB, NIV, RSV.) 29 Refer to Hans Bietenhard, NIDNTT, vol. 2, p. 654.) 30 Consult Donald W.

Burdick, The Letters of John the Apostle (Chicago: Moody, 1985), p. 386.) 31 Robertson, Grammar, p. 845.) 32 Metzger, Textual Commentary, p. 717.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.29.12|AUTODETECT|” 33 References to prayer are numerous in Scripture. Here are a few passages: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.29.12|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 29:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.8|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 7:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.22|AUTODETECT|” 21:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.11.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.11.24|AUTODETECT|” Mark 11:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.7|AUTODETECT|” John 15:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.24|AUTODETECT|” 16:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.5|AUTODETECT|” James 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 4 2 8 0 0 34 For instance, refer to GNB, NAB [since], and Phillips. And see Brown, The Epistles of John, p. 610.) 35 Bauer, p. 25.) 36 Refer to Friedrich Blass and Albert Debrunner, A Greek Grammar of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature, trans. and rev. by Robert Funk (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1961), sec. 372(1a).) 37 Compare 2:9, 10, 11; 3:10, 12 17; 4:20 21.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.16-62.5.17|AUTODETECT|” 38 Consult Paul Trudinger, Concerning Sins, Mortal and Otherwise. A Note on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.16-62.5.17|AUTODETECT|” 1 John 5, 16 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , Bib 52 (1971): 541 42.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.4|AUTODETECT|” 39 S. M. Reynolds expounds the view that John means physical death. He supports his view with a reference to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.4|AUTODETECT|” John 11:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . But because of its historical context, this passage can hardly be used as a parallel. The Sin unto Death and Prayers for the Dead, Reformation Review 20 (1973): 133.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.15-62.5.16|AUTODETECT|” 40 Consult David M. Scholer, Sins Within and Sins Without: An Interpretation of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.15-62.5.16|AUTODETECT|” I John 5:15 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , Current Issues in Biblical and Patristic Interpretation, ed. Gerald F. Hawthorne (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1975), p. 242.) 1 11 2 8 0 0 41 Compare Guthrie, New Testament Theology, p. 616.) 42 Refer to Robertson, Grammar, p. 477; and to Moule, Idiom-Book, p. 32.) 43 Plummer, The Epistles of St. John, p. 125.) 44 Most translators understand the subject of the clause to be Jesus. For example, it is the Son of God who keeps him safe (NEB, GNB). The JB has, because the begotten Son of God protects him. But the NAB gives the reading God protects the one begotten by him. And two translations have the reflexive pronoun himself, but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself (KJV, NKJV).) 45 Refer to Bauer, p. 103.) 46 Consult Bauer, p. 187.) 47 Calvin, The First Epistle of John, p. 273.) 48 In at least two other translations the reading is He is the true God (NAB, MLB).) 49 F.

F. Bruce, The Epistles of John (1970; Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1979), p. 128.) 50 Hanna, Grammatical Aid, p. 438.) )