◄ 1 John 1 ►
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The Word of Life (Luke 24:36–49; John 20:19–23) 1That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our own eyes, which we have gazed upon and touched with our own hands—this is the Word of life. 2And this is the life that was revealed; we have seen it and testified to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life that was with the Father and was revealed to us. 3We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And this fellowship of ours is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ. 4We write these things so that oura joy may be complete. Walking in the Light (John 8:12–29) 5And this is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you: God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. 6If we say we have fellowship with Him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7Butb 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 cleanses us from all sin. 8If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10If we say we have not sinned, we make Him out to be a liar, and His word is not in us. Footnotes: 4 a BYZ and TR your 7 b NA does not include But. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 1 John 1 Summary Walking in the Light Verses 1–2 – The Word of Life Revealed John opens by pointing to Someone who existed “from the beginning,” One he and the other eyewitnesses have heard, seen, and touched. This Person—Jesus—embodies “the life that was revealed,” and through Him eternal life is offered. Verses 3–4 – Fellowship and Joy John invites readers into the same shared life he enjoys with the Father and the Son. Genuine fellowship produces “complete joy,” a joy rooted in real relationship, not theory. Verses 5–7 – Walking in the Light The core message: “God is light; in Him there is no darkness.” Believers are called to live transparently, letting that light expose and cleanse. As we walk in the light, Jesus’ blood keeps on purifying us. Verses 8–10 – Confession and Cleansing Honesty about sin is non-negotiable. Claiming sinlessness is self-deception. Confessing sin triggers God’s faithful forgiveness, while denial brands Him a liar and blinds us to truth. 1 John 1 sets the foundation for the Apostle John’s first epistle, speaking passionately about fellowship with God and Jesus Christ. The chapter emphasizes God’s nature as light and the vital necessity for Christians to live and walk in this light, confessing their sins and seeking forgiveness. Authorship and Setting Early church tradition, echoed by writers like Irenaeus and Polycarp, places the aged apostle John in Ephesus toward the end of the first century. Stylistic echoes of the Fourth Gospel—short, rhythmic sentences, contrasts of light vs. dark, truth vs. lie—support common authorship. The letter seems less like a formal epistle and more like a pastoral homily circulated among house churches in Asia Minor. Purpose and Main Idea • Guard believers against false teachers who downplayed Jesus’ flesh-and-blood reality. • Promote genuine fellowship based on truth, love, and righteous living. • Offer assurance of eternal life by spotlighting three tests: doctrinal truth, moral obedience, and brotherly love. Historical Context Late first-century believers faced pressure from both synagogue and Roman culture. Some splinter groups denied Jesus had come “in the flesh.” John counters with firsthand testimony: “which we have looked at and our hands have touched” (1 John 1:1, 57 chars). Archaeological Insights • Excavations at ancient Ephesus reveal a thriving urban hub where trade routes piped in diverse ideas, including early forms of dualism that separated spirit from matter—ideas John implicitly confronts. • First-century ostraca (potsherd notes) show Greek shorthand for “Jesus Christ” (ΙΧ), evidence of widespread devotion and secret communication under threat. Light and Darkness Imagery John borrows from Genesis 1 and echoes Jesus’ claim in John 8:12: “‘I am the light of the world.’” Light stands for purity, revelation, and life; darkness, for sin, error, and death. Key Words and Phrases • “Beginning” links to Genesis and John 1:1, grounding Jesus outside of time. • “Fellowship” (koinōnia) stresses shared life, not mere socializing. • “Confess” (homologeō) means “say the same thing” God says about sin—no excuses. • “Purify” is ongoing; cleansing isn’t a one-time bath but a continual stream. Connections to Other Scripture Old Testament: Psalm 119:105 calls God’s word “a lamp to my feet,” matching the light motif. Gospels: Luke 24:39 records Jesus post-resurrection: “touch Me and see,” mirroring John’s tactile proof. Pauline letters: 2 Corinthians 4:6 links light in creation to the light of the gospel. Revelation (also by John): repeated stress on overcoming darkness (Revelation 21:23). Outline of 1 John 1 1. Prologue: Word of Life (1–2) 2. Fellowship Offered (3–4) 3. God Is Light (5) 4. Walking in Light vs. Darkness (6–7) 5. Confession vs. Denial of Sin (8–10) False Claims Addressed 1. Claiming fellowship while walking in darkness (v6). 2. Claiming sinlessness (v8). 3. Claiming never to have sinned (v10). Each “if we say” phrase is rebutted by truth and corrective action. Practical Application for Today • Transparency: bring hidden areas into God’s searchlight; secrecy breeds decay. • Regular confession: not groveling, but agreeing with God, keeping relationships clear. • Community: biblical fellowship is built on shared truth, not just shared interests. • Joy: real happiness flows from intimate life with God and honest life with others. Literary Features John’s style is circular—he revisits themes in spirals, deepening the impact. Parallel phrases (“If we say…”) form a rhythm that drives home his point. Word of Life and the Incarnation John insists Jesus is both eternal and physically tangible. Hebrews 2:14 supports: “since the children have flesh and blood, He too shared in their humanity.” Confession and Cleansing Jesus’ blood “continues to cleanse” (present tense); the cross is not only past event but present fountain. Psalm 32:5 sets the pattern: “I acknowledged my sin… and You forgave.” Assurance of Salvation John writes “so that you may know” (5:13). Confidence rests on God’s character—He is “faithful and just” (1:9, 25 chars)—and on the continuing work of Jesus. Closing Perspective 1 John 1 lays a foundation: Jesus is real, sin is real, and fellowship with God is possible right now for those who choose light over darkness and honesty over denial. Connections to Additional Scriptures John 1:14 The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. This verse complements 1 John 1:1 by highlighting the incarnation of Christ. Ephesians 5:8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light. This passage reinforces the call to live in the light. James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. This verse underscores the importance of confession and community. Teaching Points The Word of Life Manifested That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon and touched with our hands, concerning the Word of life (1 John 1:1). John emphasizes the tangible reality of Jesus Christ, affirming His incarnation and the apostles' firsthand experience. Fellowship with God and Others We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And this fellowship of ours is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ (1 John 1:3). True fellowship is rooted in a shared relationship with God through Christ. Walking in the Light If we say we have fellowship with Him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth (1 John 1:6). Walking in the light involves living in truth and righteousness, reflecting God's holiness. Confession and Forgiveness If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). Confession is essential for maintaining a right relationship with God, who is always ready to forgive. Practical Applications Examine Your Walk Regularly assess whether your life reflects the light of Christ or if there are areas of darkness that need to be addressed. Cultivate Fellowship Engage in meaningful relationships with other believers, fostering a community centered on Christ. Practice Confession Make confession a regular part of your spiritual discipline, acknowledging your sins before God and seeking His forgiveness. Live Authentically Strive to live a life of integrity, where your actions align with your professed beliefs. People 1. The Word of Life (Jesus Christ) Description: Referred to as "the Word of life" in 1 John 1:1, Jesus is central to the message of the epistle. The text emphasizes His pre-existence, incarnation, and the life He offers. The Greek term "Logos" (λόγος) is used, which signifies Jesus as the divine Word, embodying both communication and revelation from God. 2. God the Father Description: Mentioned implicitly in the context of fellowship, God the Father is the one with whom believers have fellowship through Jesus Christ. In 1 John 1:3, the text speaks of fellowship "with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ," highlighting the relational aspect of the Christian faith. 3. The Apostles (including John) Description: The author, traditionally understood to be the Apostle John, refers to himself and other apostles as eyewitnesses of Jesus' life and ministry. In 1 John 1:1-3, the use of "we" indicates the collective testimony of those who have seen, heard, and touched Jesus, underscoring the apostolic authority and firsthand experience. 4. Believers/Recipients of the Letter Description: The recipients of the letter are the believers to whom John writes, encouraging them to walk in the light and maintain fellowship with God. In 1 John 1:3-4, the purpose of writing is to invite them into this fellowship and to make their joy complete. Places 1. The Beginning The chapter opens with a reference to "the beginning" (1 John 1:1), which echoes the opening of the Gospel of John and Genesis. This phrase emphasizes the eternal nature of Christ and His pre-existence before creation. The Greek word used here is "ἀρχῇ" (archē), which signifies the commencement or origin. 2. The Word of Life Jesus is referred to as "the Word of life" (1 John 1:1). This title underscores His role as the living revelation of God. The Greek term "λόγος" (logos) is used, which means "word" or "reason," highlighting Jesus as the divine communication of God’s truth. 3. Fellowship with the Father and the Son The chapter emphasizes the importance of fellowship with God and with fellow believers (1 John 1:3). The Greek word "κοινωνία" (koinōnia) is used, meaning communion or partnership, indicating a deep, shared relationship. 4. Walking in the Light Believers are called to "walk in the light" (1 John 1:7), which signifies living in truth and holiness. The imagery of light versus darkness is a common biblical motif, representing purity and sin, respectively. 5. Confession and Forgiveness The chapter highlights the necessity of confessing sins to receive forgiveness (1 John 1:9). The Greek word "ὁμολογέω" (homologeō) means to confess or agree, indicating an acknowledgment of sin before God. While 1 John 1 does not mention specific physical locations, it provides foundational truths about the nature of Christ, the importance of fellowship, and the call to live a life of integrity and confession. Events 1. Proclamation of the Word of Life The author begins by declaring the manifestation of the "Word of life," which was from the beginning, heard, seen, and touched. This emphasizes the tangible and real experience of Jesus Christ. The Greek term "λόγος" (logos) is used for "Word," signifying the divine reason or plan. 2. Fellowship with the Father and the Son The purpose of proclaiming the Word is to invite others into fellowship with the apostles, which is ultimately fellowship with the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. The Greek word "κοινωνία" (koinonia) is used for "fellowship," indicating a deep, communal relationship. 3. Message of God as Light The message declared is that "God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all." This metaphor of light versus darkness is foundational in understanding the nature of God and the moral implications for believers. 4. Walking in the Light Believers are called to walk in the light, as God is in the light, which results in fellowship with one another and the cleansing of sin by the blood of Jesus. The Greek word "περιπατέω" (peripateo) for "walk" implies a continuous, habitual lifestyle. 5. Confession and Forgiveness of Sins The text emphasizes the importance of confessing sins, with the assurance that God is faithful and just to forgive and purify from all unrighteousness. The Greek term "ὁμολογέω" (homologeo) for "confess" means to agree or acknowledge openly. 6. Denial of Sin and Self-Deception The passage warns against claiming to be without sin, which results in self-deception and contradicts the truth. The Greek word "ψεύδομαι" (pseudomai) for "lie" underscores the falsehood of such a claim. Lessons from 1 John 1 1. Embrace the Light of Truth In a world filled with confusion and darkness, 1 John 1:5 reminds us, "God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all." This powerful truth encourages us to walk in the light of God's truth, rejecting the shadows of deceit and sin. By embracing the light, we align ourselves with God's pure and holy nature, allowing His truth to illuminate our path and guide our decisions. 2. Fellowship with God and Others True fellowship is more than just social interaction; it's a deep, spiritual connection. 1 John 1:3 states, "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." This verse highlights the importance of sharing our faith experiences to build a community rooted in Christ, fostering unity and mutual encouragement. 3. Joy in the Fullness of Christ Joy is a hallmark of the Christian life, and 1 John 1:4 tells us, "We write these things so that our joy may be complete." This joy is not dependent on circumstances but is found in the assurance of our relationship with Christ. By focusing on His promises and presence, we can experience a joy that transcends life's challenges and fills our hearts with peace. 4. Confession and Cleansing Acknowledging our sins is crucial for spiritual growth. 1 John 1:9 assures us, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Confession is not about guilt but about liberation. It opens the door to God's forgiveness and cleansing, allowing us to live in freedom and righteousness. 5. The Reality of Sin Understanding the reality of sin is essential for recognizing our need for a Savior. 1 John 1:8 warns, "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." This verse calls us to humility and honesty, acknowledging our imperfections and our dependence on God's grace for transformation. 6. Walking in the Light Walking in the light is a daily commitment to live according to God's truth. 1 John 1:7 encourages us, "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 cleanses us from all sin." This walk involves intentional choices to reflect God's character, resulting in deeper relationships and spiritual growth. 7. The Power of Testimony Sharing our testimony is a powerful way to witness to others. 1 John 1:2 emphasizes, "The life was revealed, and we have seen it and testify to it." Our personal stories of encountering Christ can inspire and encourage others to seek Him, demonstrating the transformative power of His love and grace. 8. The Assurance of Forgiveness Forgiveness is a cornerstone of our faith. 1 John 1:7 reassures us that "the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin." This promise provides us with the confidence that no sin is too great for God's mercy. Embracing this assurance allows us to live without the burden of guilt, fully accepting His grace. 9. Living in Truth Living in truth means aligning our lives with God's Word. 1 John 1:6 challenges us, "If we say we have fellowship with Him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth." This call to integrity encourages us to be consistent in our faith, ensuring that our actions reflect our beliefs. 10. The Joy of Eternal Life The ultimate promise of 1 John 1 is the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ. This chapter invites us to experience the fullness of life that comes from knowing Him. By embracing His light, truth, and forgiveness, we can live with the assurance of eternal joy and peace, both now and forever. Topics 1. The Word of Life (1 John 1:1-2) The passage begins by affirming the physical reality and eternal nature of Jesus Christ, referred to as "the Word of life." The Greek term "Logos" (λόγος) is used here, emphasizing Jesus as the divine reason and creative order. The text highlights the apostles' firsthand experience with Jesus, underscoring the tangible and historical reality of His incarnation. 2. Fellowship with the Father and the Son (1 John 1:3) John emphasizes the purpose of proclaiming the message: to invite others into fellowship with the apostles, which is ultimately fellowship with the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. The Greek word "koinonia" (κοινωνία) is used for fellowship, indicating a deep, communal relationship. 3. The Joy of Believers (1 John 1:4) The apostle John expresses his intent to write these things so that the joy of believers may be complete. This joy is rooted in the assurance and reality of their fellowship with God and each other. 4. God is Light (1 John 1:5) The message declared is that "God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all." The metaphor of light (Greek: "phos," φῶς) represents purity, truth, and holiness, contrasting with darkness, which symbolizes sin and falsehood. 5. Walking in the Light (1 John 1:6-7) John contrasts walking in darkness with walking in the light. To claim fellowship with God while walking in darkness is to lie. Walking in the light, as God is in the light, results in fellowship with one another and the cleansing of sin by the blood of Jesus. The Greek term "peripateo" (περιπατέω) for "walk" implies a continuous, habitual lifestyle. 6. Confession and Forgiveness of Sin (1 John 1:8-10) The passage addresses the reality of sin and the necessity of confession. Claiming to be without sin is self-deception, but confessing sins leads to forgiveness and purification. The Greek word "homologeo" (ὁμολογέω) for "confess" means to agree with or acknowledge, emphasizing the importance of admitting one's sins to receive God's faithful and just forgiveness. Themes 1. The Incarnation of the Word of Life The opening verses emphasize the physical reality of Jesus Christ, the "Word of life," who was "from the beginning" and was "heard," "seen," and "touched" (1 John 1:1). The Greek term "Logos" (λόγος) underscores the divine and eternal nature of Christ, affirming His incarnation. 2. Fellowship with God and Believers The epistle highlights the purpose of proclaiming the message: to foster fellowship ("koinonia" - κοινωνία) with both God and fellow believers (1 John 1:3). This fellowship is rooted in a shared relationship with the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. 3. The Joy of Believers John writes to make the believers' joy complete (1 John 1:4). The Greek word "chara" (χαρά) indicates a deep, abiding joy that comes from a relationship with God and the assurance of eternal life. 4. God as Light The message declares that "God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all" (1 John 1:5). The imagery of light ("phos" - φῶς) represents purity, truth, and holiness, contrasting with darkness, which symbolizes sin and falsehood. 5. Walking in the Light Believers are called to "walk in the light" as God is in the light (1 John 1:7). This involves living in truth and righteousness, resulting in fellowship with one another and cleansing from sin through Jesus' blood. 6. Confession and Forgiveness of Sin The text stresses the importance of acknowledging sin, with the promise that "if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). The Greek word "homologeo" (ὁμολογέω) for "confess" implies agreement with God about our sinfulness. 7. Deception and Truth The chapter warns against self-deception, stating that claiming to be without sin is a lie and the truth is not in us (1 John 1:8, 10). The emphasis is on living in truth ("aletheia" - ἀλήθεια) and recognizing our need for God's grace. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Fellowship Thank God for the privilege of fellowship with Him and other believers through Jesus Christ. Desire for Holiness Pray for a heart that desires to walk in the light and reflect God's holiness in every aspect of life. Courage to Confess Ask for the courage to confess sins and the assurance of God's forgiveness and cleansing. Strength to Live Authentically Seek God's strength to live a life of integrity and authenticity, aligning actions with faith. As we conclude this study, may we be inspired to walk in the light, embracing the truth of God's Word and the fellowship we share with Him and one another. Answering Tough Questions 1. 1 John 1:1 mentions seeing and handling the “Word of life.” Where is the historical or archaeological proof for this physical encounter? 2. 1 John 1:2 says the eternal life was manifested. How does this claim align with modern scientific principles that do not acknowledge an eternal being? 3. In 1 John 1:5, God is described as having no darkness at all. How do we reconcile a perfectly good deity with the evil and suffering observed in the world? 4. 1 John 1:8 states that anyone claiming to be without sin deceives themselves. Is this concept of universal sin defensible in light of differing religious or secular views on human nature? 5. 1 John 1:9 promises forgiveness through confession. Without empirical evidence for spiritual change, what evidence exists that this is more than a psychological coping mechanism? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does it mean that God is "light"? How does this metaphor speak to God’s nature? 2. What implications does the statement "God is light" have on our daily living? 3. How do verses 1-2 demonstrate the authenticity of Jesus Christ? 4. What does "fellowship" mean in the context of 1 John 1:3? How can we have fellowship with God and with each other? 5. How do you interpret the phrase "walk in the light" in your everyday life? Can you give specific examples? 6. What does "walking in darkness" mean? What are some contemporary examples of "walking in darkness"? 7. How does John describe the consequence of claiming to be without sin (1 John 1:8-10)? 8. How does the concept of confession tie into the themes of light and darkness in this chapter? 9. How does John's assertion of God's faithfulness and justice (1 John 1:9) affect your understanding of God? 10. How does John use contrast (light/dark, truth/lie) to communicate his message? 11. What can you take away from the phrase "His truth is not in us" when we deny our sins? How can this be applied to real-life situations? 12. How can we use the message in this chapter to guide our interactions with others? 13. In what ways can you increase your fellowship with God and others, as suggested by this chapter? 14. How can admitting our faults and seeking forgiveness improve our relationship with God and others? 15. How can the truths revealed in 1 John 1 help you when you feel spiritually distant or disconnected from God? 16. How does the concept of God's purity challenge the way you live your life? 17. How might this chapter affect your view on moral relativism – the idea that there are no absolute truths? 18. What are practical steps we can take to “walk in the light”? 19. How does understanding God as light influence your view of His character and your relationship with Him? 20. How can you apply the lessons in this chapter to guide your decisions and actions in a situation where truth and lies are at stake? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions