1 John 2:28 - Printer Friendly

ESV: And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming.

NIV: And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming.

NASB: Now, little children, remain in Him, so that when He appears, we may have confidence and not draw back from Him in shame at His coming.

CSB: So now, little children, remain in him so that when he appears we may have confidence and not be ashamed before him at his coming.

NLT: And now, dear children, remain in fellowship with Christ so that when he returns, you will be full of courage and not shrink back from him in shame.

KJV: And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.

NKJV: And now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming.

"Abiding" is again emphasized. Faithful Christian living is frequently referred to as "abiding" in this chapter. Earlier, in verses 12–14, the phrase "little children" spoke more specifically of younger believers. In this particular context, though, John appears to address all of his readers. This is also made clear by the reference to Christ's return. All believers are to anticipate Christ's return at any moment. Whether by His return, or natural death, or other means, each person is always a heartbeat away from meeting God face-to-face.

This close fellowship with Christ leads to two important results when He returns. First, is confidence, both in our salvation and in our relationship with Him. Second, we will not need to be embarrassed about our lives and lifestyles. Instead of shame, a faithful believer can have confidence and look forward to Christ's coming. First Thessalonians 4:18 says that believers should encourage one another with the truth of Christ's imminent return.

First John 2:28–29 summarizes this passage with another reference to ''abiding'' and Christian behavior. Believers ought to live in a way which shows the positive influence of Christ. Those who demonstrate godly behavior are giving good evidence that they truly know Christ. Such people will also be rewarded, rather than ashamed, when they finally meet Him.

Chapter 2 explains the fellowship Christians have with God. Christ is our advocate, even when we sin. Christians are not to love things of the world, or to love the world. Instead, we are to live, love, and act like Christ. False teachers, and those who deny Jesus are called ''liars.'' Those who demonstrate a Christ-like behavior are ''born of'' God.

Chapter 1 introduced the primary themes of John’s letter. Chapters 2 and 3 lay out a detailed description of how Christian conduct is meant to be marked by obedience to the truth. Christians are called to live like Christ. Therefore, those who do not (live that way) do not have ''the truth'' in them. Later chapters of this letter will fill in how Christian love and conduct give us confidence in our daily lives.

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 5/4/2024 12:49:17 AM