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What does 1 John 5 mean?

Chapter Commentary:

Chapter 5 emphasizes the believer's ability to "overcome" the world (1 John 5:1–5) through the power of Christ. John gives testimony regarding Jesus as the Son of God (1 John 5:6–12). This passage also reassures believers, telling them they can know they have eternal life (1 John 5:13–21).

First John chapter 5 begins with an important idea. Everyone who puts their faith in Jesus Christ is "born of God." Those who truly love God also love their spiritual brothers and sisters. We show this love for others through obeying God's commands (1 John 5:2). Verse 4 adds that those born of God are "overcomers." John highlights the power of believers to conquer the sins and temptations of this world, through a relationship with God.

The second section, in verses 6 through 12, focuses on Jesus as God's Son. He came by water and blood, likely a reference to His baptism and crucifixion (1 John 5:6). The Spirit also agrees with the testimony of Jesus as God's Son (1 John 5:7–8). Whoever believes has this testimony within them (1 John 5:10). This witness proves that, through Christ, we have everlasting life. Even as early as John wrote this letter, Christians were facing discouragement from false teachers over their salvation.

The third section, in verses 13 through 21, focuses on the teaching that believers can have assurance of their salvation. First John 5:13 clearly states that John's purpose for this letter is "that you may know that you have eternal life." Five additional teachings are then given, followed by a brief command to stay away from idols. First, John speaks of confidence in prayer (1 John 5:14–15). Second, John emphasizes helping those struggling with sin (1 John 5:16–17). Third, John teaches those who know God are protected from the evil one (1 John 5:18). Fourth, John notes that those who don't belong to God are under this world's power (1 John 5:19). Fifth, John notes that Jesus came so we can have eternal life (1 John 5:20). As a result, we are to stay away from idols and worship only the true God, Jesus Christ (1 John 5:21).

First John 5:1–5 develops two major ideas. Initially, John repeats the idea that love, as a commandment from God, is a necessary action by believers. Showing love to others is how we demonstrate that we are ''born of God.'' Second, John explains that those who have faith in Christ can overcome worldly sins and temptations. Victory, for the Christian, is through faith in Christ, who has already defeated these powers of darkness.

First John 5:6–12 explains some of the evidence that Jesus Christ is, in fact, the Son of God. God's voice at Jesus' baptism, the events of Jesus' death and resurrection, and the internal witness of the Holy Spirit are all described. Because of this multi-part testimony, Christians can have confidence in what they have been taught. Those who reject these facts, in effect, accuse God of lying.

First John 5:13–21 closes out the letter by focusing on assurance of salvation. The goal of John's letter is to provide believers with a means to know, for sure, that they have eternal life. Those who have put their faith in Jesus Christ can be absolutely sure that they are saved. Despite our failures and sins, God is forgiving. And, through Christ, we have the power to overcome the world's temptations to sin.

Chapter Summary:

Chapter 5 concludes the book of 1 John, once again emphasizing the supremacy of love in the Christian experience. Those who put their faith in Christ can know, for sure, that they have eternal life. This assurance comes by trusting what we know of the life of Jesus Christ, as well as the evidence of the Holy Spirit within us. Following God's commands, particularly love, results in confidence of our salvation, as well as strength against the temptations of the world.

Chapter Context:

First John 5 completes the letter by summarizing how Christians can know that they have eternal life. Prior chapters have explained the various signs of ''abiding'' with God, but the key measurement is love. In this final passage, love is once again used as the supreme measurement. In light of the rest of the letter, love for God and love for others is shown to be both a source of confidence and a sign of faith.

First John seems to assume that the reader is familiar with the gospel. Rather than re-state these facts, John is concerned with building confidence in Christian believers. At the same time, his words encourage believers to examine their own lives for signs of their relationship with Christ. This letter also challenges false teachers and their incorrect claims about Jesus. Many themes are shared with the Gospel of John.

Accessed 11/21/2024 3:48:18 PM