1 John 3:1-9 is about the transformative power of God’s love, which changes believers into children of God and purifies them from sin, leading them to live a righteous and holy life.
1 See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.
2 Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.
3 And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.
4 Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness.
5 You know that he appeared in order to take away sins, and in him there is no sin.
6 No one who abides in him keeps on sinning; no one who keeps on sinning has either seen him or known him.
7 Little children, let no one deceive you. Whoever practices righteousness is righteous, as he is righteous.
8 Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.
No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God’s seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God.
Setting the Scene for 1 John 3:1-9
In 1 John chapter 3, the scene is set in a small, dimly lit room in the city of Ephesus. The room is filled with a group of early Christians gathered for a bible study session. Among them are John, the beloved disciple of Jesus, and a mix of men and women from different backgrounds who have come together to deepen their understanding of the teachings of Christ.
The group is seated on simple cushions arranged in a circle, with flickering oil lamps casting a warm glow on their faces. John, with his gentle demeanor and wise eyes, begins to speak about the incredible love that God has bestowed upon them as His children. He emphasizes the importance of living a life of righteousness and love, reflecting the love that God has shown them.
As John continues to teach, the room is filled with a sense of peace and unity, as the believers are reminded of their identity as children of God. The words of encouragement and exhortation from John resonate deeply with each person present, stirring their hearts to live lives that honor God and reflect His love to the world.
What is 1 John 3:1-9 about?
Imagine feeling so deeply loved and cherished by a divine being that you are considered a part of His own family. This verse speaks to the profound impact of feeling God’s love in our lives and how it transforms us from the inside out. This love not only fills our hearts but also guides our actions, prompting us to make choices that are aligned with God’s teachings and values. We, as His children, are called to live in a way that reflects the love and grace we have received, striving to lead a righteous and virtuous life.
Have you ever experienced a love so pure and unconditional that it compels you to be a better person? That is the essence of God’s love for us—it is transformative and life-changing. We resist the temptations of sin and embody the virtues that God calls us to cultivate by accepting and embracing this love. We, as His children, have a responsibility to honor our relationship with God by living in a way that glorifies Him and reflects His love to others. This verse reminds us of the power of God’s love to shape our character and guide our path towards righteousness.
Understanding what 1 John 3:1-9 really means
Introduction and Context
To understand 1 John 3:1-9, it’s vital to recognize the context in which John wrote this epistle. John addresses believers, emphasizing the transformative power of God’s love and our identity as His children. This passage contrasts the purity of God’s children with the sinfulness of the world, underscoring our call to live righteously. Let’s unpack this rich text, phrase by phrase, and explore its implications for our lives today.
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us”
John begins by marveling at the immense love God has for us, calling us His children. This statement is not just about acknowledgment but about the transformative power of God’s love. Reflect on John 1:12, which tells us that those who receive Christ become children of God. This identity isn’t something we earn; it’s a gift, a manifestation of divine grace. How often do we pause to consider ourselves as beloved children of God, not just in title but in the essence of our being?
“The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him”
This phrase highlights the dichotomy between believers and the world. John’s mention that the world doesn’t recognize us because it didn’t recognize Jesus is significant. It reminds us of John 15:18-19, where Jesus tells his disciples that the world will hate them because it first hated Him. Christians often feel out of place or misunderstood. This is a natural consequence of our new identity in Christ. Have you ever felt that your values clash with societal norms? This feeling underscores our distinctiveness as God’s children.
“All who have this hope in him purify themselves”
Here, John calls us to a life of purity, driven by the hope of becoming like Christ. Purity isn’t just about moral conduct; it’s about aligning our hearts and minds with God’s will. Jesus says in Matthew 5:8, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”” This beatitude reinforces the idea that purity is not merely external but deeply internal. How do we strive for purity in our daily lives? Is it through prayer, reflection, or community support?
“No one who lives in him keeps on sinning”
John’s assertion that those who live in Christ do not continue to sin can be perplexing. Does this mean Christians are sinless? Not quite. Instead, it emphasizes a break from a lifestyle dominated by sin. Paul echoes this in Romans 6:1-2, where he questions whether we should continue sinning so that grace may increase. His answer is a resounding no; our new life in Christ calls us to abandon habitual sin. This transformation might be gradual, but it’s real and evident. Do you see areas in your life where God’s work is evident, transforming old habits into new, righteous ones?
Relevance Today
Today’s world often celebrates self-indulgence, materialism, and moral relativism. This passage calls us to a counter-cultural way of living, grounded in our identity as God’s children. Imagine a teenager struggling with peer pressure to fit in. Understanding their identity in Christ can empower them to make choices that honor God, even if it means standing alone. This is not just about moral behavior but about a deep-seated assurance and peace that comes from knowing we are loved and valued by God.
Conclusion
1 John 3:1-9 is a powerful reminder of who we are in Christ and how that identity shapes our lives. It calls us to reflect on God’s immense love, to embrace our distinctiveness from the world, and to pursue a life of purity and righteousness. Let this passage encourage us to live out our identity as God’s beloved children, transforming the world around us with His love as we navigate our daily challenges. How will you let this truth shape your actions and attitudes today?
What does it mean to be a child of God?
To be a child of God means that we are deeply loved and cherished by Him as our Father. It means that we have a special relationship with God, where He cares for us, guides us, and provides for us. We, as His children, are called to reflect His love, grace, and character in our lives, showing kindness and compassion to others as He has shown to us.
Being a child of God also means that we have a new identity in Christ. We are forgiven of our sins, redeemed, and made new through His sacrifice on the cross. This new identity empowers us to live a life that is pleasing to God, turning away from sin and walking in righteousness. We, as His children, are called to live in obedience to Him, following His commandments and walking in the light. Being a child of God ultimately means that we have a secure and eternal relationship with Him. We have the assurance of His presence, protection, and eternal inheritance. This relationship is based on His unconditional love for us, which gives us hope and confidence in all circumstances. We, as His children, are called to trust in His goodness and faithfulness, knowing that He will always be there for us.
Application
Friend, take a moment to consider the immense love we’ve been given, like a parent’s unending support. Imagine channeling that love into everything you do—at work, with family, everywhere. Strive to be the best version of yourself, just like you want the best for your children or your team. Reflect that purity and dedication in your daily actions and choices. Will you let this love drive you to live a life of purpose and integrity?
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.