1 John2
English Standard Version
Tap any underlined word for the original Hebrew or Greek.
1 , I am these to so . does , we an the , the .
2 the , the sins of the .
3 by we we have come to , we .
4 Whoever I does a , the ,
5 , the of . By may know we :
6 whoever he to in the same way in .
7 , I am , an you the . The the you have .
8 At the , it is a that I am to , , the is the is .
9 Whoever he the .
10 Whoever the , there cause for .
11 whoever the the , does he is , the has .
12 I am to , , your are .
13 I am to , , you him who is the . I am to , , you have the . I to , , because you the .
14 I to , , you him who is the . I to , , you , the of , you have the .
15 Do the the things the . the , the of the .
16 that is the — the of the the of the of — the the .
17 the is with , whoever the of .
18 , it the , you have is , have . we it the .
19 They went , they ; they had , have . they went out, it might they .
20 been the , have .
21 I to , do the , you , the .
22 the he who the ? the , he who the the .
23 No one the the . Whoever the the .
24 the . you the , then will the the .
25 the — .
26 I things to those who are trying to .
27 the , you should . , , — it has , .
28 , , , so he we may in shame .
29 you he , you may be who has been .
Study
1 John 2Public-domain commentary and original-language notes for 1 John 2. The full AI study guide (summary, themes, context) has its own page.
Chapter Summary
In this chapter: The apostle directs to the atonement of Christ for help against sinful infirmities. (1, 2). The effects of saving knowledge in producing obedience, and love to the brethren. (3–11). Christians addressed as little children, young men, and fathers. (12–14). All are cautioned against the love of this world, and against errors. (15–23). They are encouraged to stand fast in faith and holiness. (24–29).
vv1-2
When have an Advocate with the Father; one who has undertaken, and is fully able, to plead in behalf of every one who applies for pardon and salvation in his name, depending on his pleading for them. He is “Jesus,” the Saviour, and “Christ,” the Messiah, the Anointed. He alone is “the Righteous One,” who received his nature pure from sin, and as our Surety perfectly obeyed the law of God, and so fulfilled all righteousness. All men, in every land, and through successive generations, are invited to come to God through this all-sufficient atonement, and by this new and living way. The gospel, when rightly understood and received, sets the heart against all sin, and stops the allowed practice of it; at the same time it gives blessed relief to the wounded consciences of those who have sinned.
vv3-11
What knowledge of Christ can that be, which sees not that he is most worthy of our entire obedience? And a disobedient life shows there is neither religion nor honesty in the professor. The love of God is perfected in him that keeps his commandments. God's grace in him attains its true mark, and produces its sovereign effect as far as may be in this world, and this is man's regeneration; though never absolutely perfect here. Yet this observing Christ's commands, has holiness and excellency which, if universal, would make the earth resemble heaven itself. The command to love one another had been in force from the beginning of the world; but it might be called a new command as given to Christians. It was new in them, as their situation was new in respect of its motives, rules, and obligations. And those who walk in hatred and enmity to believers, remain in a dark state. Christian love teaches us to value our brother's soul, and to dread every thing hurtful to his purity and peace. Where spiritual darkness dwells, in mind, the judgment, and the conscience will be darkened, and will mistake the way to heavenly life. These things demand serious self-examination; and earnest prayer, that God would show us what we are, and whither we are going.
vv12-14
As Christians have their peculiar states, so they have peculiar duties; but there are precepts and obedience common to all, particularly mutual love, and contempt of the world. The youngest sincere disciple is pardoned: the communion of saints is attended with the forgiveness of sins. Those of the longest standing in Christ's school need further advice and instruction. Even fathers must be written unto, and preached unto; none are too old to learn. But especially young men in Christ Jesus, though they are arrived at strength of spirit and sound sense, and have successfully resisted first trials and temptations, breaking off bad habits and connexions, and entered in at the strait gate of true conversion. The different descriptions of Christians are again addressed. Children in Christ know that God is their Father; it is wisdom. Those advanced believers, who know Him that was from the beginning, before this world was made, may well be led thereby to give up this world. It will be the glory of young persons to be strong in Christ, and his grace. By the word of God they overcome the wicked one.
Key Words
μοῦ (moû): of me
τεκνίον (tekníon): an infant, i.e. (plural figuratively) darlings (Christian converts)
γράφω (gráphō): to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe
ταῦτα (taûta): these things
ὑμῖν (hymîn): to (with or by) you
ἵνα μή (hína mḗ): in order (or so) that not
ἁμαρτάνω (hamartánō): properly, to miss the mark (and so not share in the prize), i.e. (figuratively) to err, especially (morally) to sin
καί (kaí): and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἐάν (eán): a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
τὶς (tìs): some or any person or object
Cross References
1 John 2Jesus' original statement of the "new commandment" of love, echoed directly by John here.
Supported by Matthew Poole
Explains why our Advocate must be "the righteous"—holy, harmless, undefiled, and separate from sinners.
Supported by John Calvin
Paul's definition of propitiation, aligning with John's presentation of Christ as our atoning sacrifice.
Supported by Matthew Poole, JFB
Exhorts believers to follow Christ's steps, parallel to walking "even as he walked."
Supported by Matthew Poole
Walking in darkness and not knowing where one goes, mirroring Christ's exact warning.
Supported by Matthew Henry
The firm foundation of God stands sure, distinguishing true members from those who depart.
Supported by Matthew Henry
Defines eternal life as knowing God, which John connects to keeping His commandments.
Supported by Matthew Poole
Echoes the sharp dualism between friendship with the world and love for God.
Supported by Matthew Henry
Refers to Jesus Christ specifically as "the Holy One and the Just" (Righteous).
Supported by Matthew Henry
Instructs believers to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, choosing to live soberly.
Supported by Matthew Henry
No man can serve two masters; parallel to the exclusion of Father's love by worldliness.
Supported by Matthew Henry