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1 John 3 Summary

John 1:12
But to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.

Romans 8:16-17
The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.

Galatians 5:22-23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.The Love of God
See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! (1John 3:1). God's love is the foundation of our identity as His children.

The Hope of Purity
Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure (1John 3:3). Our hope in Christ motivates us to pursue purity and holiness.

The Practice of Righteousness
No one who remains in Him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has seen Him or known Him (1John 3:6). A true relationship with Christ results in a life characterized by righteousness.

The Contrast with the World
The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know Him (1John 3:1). As children of God, we are distinct from the world, which often does not understand or accept us.

The Command to Love
And this is His command: to believe in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as He commanded us (1John 3:23). Love is the defining mark of a believer's life.Embrace Your Identity
Reflect on the truth that you are a child of God and let this identity shape your self-perception and actions.

Pursue Holiness
Actively seek to purify your life by aligning your thoughts and actions with the character of Christ.

Examine Your Life
Regularly assess whether your life reflects the righteousness of Christ or if there are areas where sin persists.

Love Others
Make a conscious effort to demonstrate love to those around you, especially fellow believers, as a reflection of God's love for you.1.God
Referred to as the Father, God is the source of love and the one who calls believers His children. The Greek term used is "Θεός" (Theos), emphasizing His divine nature and authority.

2.Jesus Christ
Mentioned as the Son of God, Jesus is the one who appeared to take away sins and destroy the works of the devil. The Greek term "Χριστός" (Christos) signifies the Anointed One, the Messiah.

3.Children of God
These are the believers who are called God's children because of His love. They are characterized by righteousness and love for one another. The Greek term "τέκνα Θεοῦ" (tekna Theou) highlights their relationship with God as His offspring.

4.The World
This refers to those who do not know God and are contrasted with the children of God. The Greek term "κόσμος" (kosmos) often denotes the secular, unbelieving world system.

5.The Devil
Described as the one who has been sinning from the beginning, the devil is the adversary whose works Jesus came to destroy. The Greek term "διάβολος" (diabolos) means accuser or slanderer.

6.Cain
Mentioned as an example of someone who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. His actions are used to illustrate hatred and unrighteousness. The Greek name "Κάϊν" (Kain) is a direct transliteration from the Hebrew.

7.Abel
Although not directly named in this chapter, Abel is implied as the brother whom Cain murdered. His righteousness is contrasted with Cain's evil actions.1.The World (κόσμος - kosmos)
The term "world" is used in 1John 3:1: "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know Him." In this context, "world" refers to the secular, unbelieving society that is in opposition to God and His children. The Greek word "κόσμος" often denotes the system of human existence that is estranged from God.

2.The Presence of God (θεός - theos)
While not a physical place, the presence of God is a significant theme in 1John 3:2: "Beloved, we are now children of God, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that when Christ appears, we will be like Him, for we will see Him as He is." This verse speaks to the future revelation and transformation in the presence of God, emphasizing the hope and purity that believers strive for.

3.The Realm of Sin (ἁμαρτία - hamartia)
In 1John 3:4-6, sin is described as lawlessness: "Everyone who practices sin practices lawlessness as well. Indeed, sin is lawlessness. But you know that Christ appeared to take away sins, and in Him there is no sin." The Greek word "ἁμαρτία" refers to missing the mark or deviating from God's law. This passage contrasts the realm of sin with the sinless nature of Christ.

4.The Kingdom of God (βασιλεία τοῦ θεοῦ - basileia tou theou)
Implicit in 1John 3:9-10 is the concept of God's kingdom: "No one born of God practices sin, because God’s seed abides in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God. By this the children of God and the children of the devil are distinguished: Anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is anyone who does not love his brother." The kingdom of God is characterized by righteousness and love, distinguishing the children of God from the children of the devil.

5.The Heart (καρδία - kardia)
In 1John 3:19-21, the heart is mentioned as a place of assurance before God: "And by this we will know that we belong to the truth, and will assure our hearts in His presence: If our hearts condemn us, God is greater than our hearts, and He knows all things. Beloved, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God." The Greek "καρδία" refers to the inner self, the seat of emotions and moral decision-making, where believers find assurance and confidence in their relationship with God.1.The Love of the Father (1 John 3:1)
The chapter begins by highlighting the great love the Father has lavished on believers, calling them "children of God." This emphasizes the transformative identity bestowed upon believers through God's love. The Greek word used here for "lavished" is "dedōken," indicating a generous and gracious giving.

2.The World’s Lack of Understanding (1 John 3:1)
It is noted that the world does not recognize believers as God's children because it did not know Him. This reflects the spiritual blindness and separation from God that characterizes the world.

3.The Hope of Being Like Christ (1 John 3:2)
Believers are assured that they are now children of God, and it is promised that when Christ appears, they will be like Him, for they will see Him as He is. This event points to the future glorification and transformation of believers.

4.The Call to Purity (1 John 3:3)
Everyone who has this hope in Christ purifies themselves, just as He is pure. The Greek word "hagnizō" for "purifies" suggests a continuous process of sanctification and moral purity.

5.The Nature of Sin (1 John 3:4-6)
Sin is defined as lawlessness, and it is stated that Christ appeared to take away sins. Those who abide in Him do not continue to sin, highlighting the transformative power of Christ's work.

6.The Distinction Between Children of God and Children of the Devil (1 John 3:7-10)
A clear distinction is made between those who practice righteousness and those who do not. The text emphasizes that those who do what is right are righteous, just as Christ is righteous, while those who continue in sin are of the devil.

7.The Command to Love One Another (1 John 3:11-15)
The message from the beginning is reiterated: believers should love one another. The example of Cain, who murdered his brother Abel, is used to illustrate the opposite of love. Hatred is equated with murder, and it is stated that no murderer has eternal life.

8.The Example of Christ’s Love (1 John 3:16-18)
Christ's sacrificial love is presented as the ultimate example, and believers are called to lay down their lives for one another. Love is to be demonstrated not just in words but in actions and truth.

9.The Assurance of a Clear Conscience (1 John 3:19-22)
Believers are encouraged that their hearts can be reassured before God, even when they feel condemned, because God is greater than their hearts. Confidence before God leads to receiving what is asked in prayer, as believers keep His commandments and do what pleases Him.

10.The Command to Believe and Love (1 John 3:23-24)
The chapter concludes with the command to believe in the name of Jesus Christ and to love one another. The indwelling of the Spirit is the evidence that He abides in believers, affirming their relationship with God.

1. Embrace the Love of God
In1 John 3:1, we are reminded of the incredible love that God has lavished upon us: "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!" This is not just a title; it’s a reality that transforms our identity. As children of God, we are invited to live in the light of His love, which is both a privilege and a calling. Let this truth shape your daily interactions and decisions, knowing you are deeply loved and valued by the Creator of the universe.

2. Pursue Purity
Purity is not just an ideal; it’s a pursuit that reflects our hope in Christ.1 John 3:3 states, "Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure." This verse encourages us to align our lives with the purity of Jesus. By focusing on His example, we can strive to live lives that honor God, making choices that reflect His holiness in our thoughts, words, and actions.

3. Recognize the Reality of Sin
Sin is a serious matter, and1 John 3:4 makes it clear: "Everyone who practices sin practices lawlessness as well. Indeed, sin is lawlessness." Acknowledging the reality of sin helps us understand the gravity of our actions and the need for a Savior. This awareness should drive us to repentance and a deeper reliance on Jesus, who came to take away our sins.

4. Live in the Freedom from Sin
Jesus came to set us free from the bondage of sin.1 John 3:5 reminds us, "But you know that Christ appeared to take away sins, and in Him there is no sin." This freedom is not just a future promise but a present reality. By abiding in Christ, we can experience victory over sin and live in the freedom He offers, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

5. Reflect the Righteousness of Christ
Our lives should be a reflection of Christ’s righteousness.1 John 3:7 encourages us, "Little children, let no one deceive you: The one who practices righteousness is righteous, just as Christ is righteous." This is a call to action, urging us to live out our faith in tangible ways. By practicing righteousness, we demonstrate the transformative power of Christ in our lives.

6. Understand the Distinction Between God’s Children and the World
1 John 3:10 draws a clear line: "By this the children of God and the children of the devil are distinguished: Anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is anyone who does not love his brother." This distinction is crucial for understanding our identity and mission. As God’s children, we are called to stand apart from the world, living lives marked by love and righteousness.

7. Love One Another Deeply
Love is the hallmark of a true believer.1 John 3:11 reminds us, "This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another." This love is not superficial but sacrificial, mirroring the love of Christ. By loving others deeply, we fulfill the commandment of Jesus and become a testament to His love in a world that desperately needs it.

8. Be Prepared for Opposition
Following Christ may lead to opposition, as1 John 3:13 warns, "Do not be surprised, brothers, if the world hates you." This is a reminder that living out our faith may not always be easy, but it is always worth it. Stand firm in your convictions, knowing that any opposition you face is a testament to your alignment with Christ.

9. Demonstrate Love Through Action
Love is more than words; it’s action.1 John 3:18 exhorts us, "Little children, let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth." This is a call to live out our love in practical ways, serving others and meeting their needs. By doing so, we reflect the love of Christ and make a tangible impact in the lives of those around us.

10. Rest in the Assurance of God’s Presence
Finally,1 John 3:24 offers us assurance: "And by this we know that He abides in us: by the Spirit He has given us." This is a comforting reminder that we are never alone. The Holy Spirit dwells within us, guiding, comforting, and empowering us to live out our faith. Rest in this assurance, knowing that God’s presence is with you every step of the way.

1.The Love of God and Our Identity as His Children
1John 3:1: "Behold what manner of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are!"
This verse emphasizes the profound love of God, which allows believers to be called His children. The Greek word for "love" here is "ἀγάπη" (agape), indicating a selfless, unconditional love.

2.The Hope of Being Like Christ
1John 3:2: "Beloved, we are now children of God, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that when Christ appears, we will be like Him, for we will see Him as He is."
This topic highlights the future transformation of believers to be like Christ, rooted in the hope of His return.

3.The Call to Purity
1John 3:3: "And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure."
The Greek word for "purifies" is "ἁγνίζει" (hagnizei), which means to cleanse or make holy, reflecting the call for moral and spiritual purity.

4.Sin and Lawlessness
1John 3:4: "Everyone who practices sin practices lawlessness as well. Indeed, sin is lawlessness."
This verse defines sin as "ἀνομία" (anomia), meaning lawlessness, emphasizing the rebellion against God's law.

5.Christ's Mission to Remove Sin
1John 3:5: "But you know that Christ appeared to take away sins, and in Him there is no sin."
The purpose of Christ's coming is to remove sin, underscoring His sinless nature.

6.Living in Christ and Avoiding Sin
1John 3:6: "No one who remains in Him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has seen Him or known Him."
This topic stresses the transformative relationship with Christ that leads to a life free from habitual sin.

7.The Distinction Between Children of God and Children of the Devil
1John 3:7-10: These verses contrast the righteous behavior of God's children with the sinful actions of the devil's children, emphasizing that true believers practice righteousness and love.

8.The Command to Love One Another
1John 3:11: "This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another."
The Greek word for "love" is again "ἀγάπη" (agape), reinforcing the foundational Christian command to love.

9.The Example of Cain and Hatred
1John 3:12-15: These verses use Cain as an example of hatred leading to murder, warning that hatred equates to spiritual death.

10.The Assurance of Love in Action
1John 3:16-18: These verses define love through the sacrificial example of Christ and call believers to demonstrate love through actions, not just words.

11.Confidence Before God
1John 3:19-22: This section discusses the assurance and confidence believers have before God when their hearts are aligned with His commandments.

12.The Commandments of Faith and Love
1John 3:23-24: "And this is His commandment: that we should believe in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, and love one another as He commanded us."
The dual command to believe in Christ and love others encapsulates the essence of Christian faith and practice.1.Divine Love and Identity as God's Children
1John 3:1 emphasizes the profound love of God, stating, "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!" The Greek word for "lavished" (πεπόρκεν, peporken) underscores the abundance and generosity of God's love. This theme highlights the believer's identity as a child of God, which is a result of divine love.

2.The Hope of Purity and Christ's Return
In 1John 3:2-3, the text speaks of the hope believers have in Christ's return: "We know that when Christ appears, we will be like Him, for we will see Him as He is." The Greek word for "hope" (ἐλπίδα, elpida) conveys a confident expectation. This hope motivates believers to purify themselves, reflecting the purity of Christ.

3.Sin and Lawlessness
1John 3:4 addresses the nature of sin: "Everyone who practices sin practices lawlessness as well. Indeed, sin is lawlessness." The Greek term for "lawlessness" (ἀνομία, anomia) indicates a disregard for God's law. This theme underscores the seriousness of sin and its incompatibility with the Christian life.

4.Christ's Mission to Remove Sin
The purpose of Christ's coming is highlighted in 1John 3:5: "But you know that Christ appeared to take away sins, and in Him there is no sin." The Greek verb "to take away" (ἄρῃ, arei) suggests a removal or lifting away of sin, emphasizing Christ's redemptive work.

5.The Incompatibility of Sin with Abiding in Christ
1John 3:6 states, "No one who remains in Him keeps on sinning." The Greek word for "remains" (μένει, menei) implies a continuous, abiding relationship. This theme stresses that a genuine relationship with Christ transforms behavior, making persistent sin incompatible with abiding in Him.

6.Righteousness as Evidence of Being Born of God
In 1John 3:7-10, the text contrasts the children of God with the children of the devil, emphasizing that "the one who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous." The Greek term for "practices" (ποιῶν, poion) indicates ongoing action. Righteous living is evidence of being born of God.

7.Love as the Mark of True Believers
1John 3:11-18 focuses on love as a defining characteristic of believers: "We should love one another." The Greek word for "love" (ἀγαπῶμεν, agapōmen) is a form of agape, denoting selfless, sacrificial love. This theme highlights love as the essential mark of a true Christian community.

8.Condemnation and Assurance in the Heart
1John 3:19-21 discusses the believer's heart before God: "If our hearts condemn us, God is greater than our hearts." The Greek word for "condemn" (καταγινώσκῃ, kataginōskei) suggests a judgment against oneself. This theme addresses the tension between self-condemnation and the assurance found in God's greater knowledge and love.

9.Confidence in Prayer
The theme of prayer is addressed in 1John 3:22: "And we will receive from Him whatever we ask, because we keep His commandments and do what is pleasing in His sight." The Greek word for "confidence" (παρρησίαν, parrēsian) implies boldness and assurance in approaching God. This theme emphasizes the connection between obedience and effective prayer.

10.The Command to Believe and Love
1John 3:23 summarizes God's command: "And this is His commandment: that we should believe in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, and love one another." The Greek word for "commandment" (ἐντολή, entolē) signifies a directive from God. This theme encapsulates the dual command to have faith in Christ and to love others as foundational to the Christian life. Thanksgiving for God's Love
Thank God for His incredible love that calls us His children.

Desire for Purity
Pray for a heart that desires purity and holiness, reflecting the character of Christ.

Strength to Live Righteously
Ask for strength and guidance to live a life that honors God and reflects His righteousness.

Love for Others
Pray for the ability to love others deeply and sincerely, as Christ has loved us.

1.In 1 John 3:1, how can the claim that believers are “children of God” be reconciled with human evolution?

2.1 John 3:6 says those who abide in Christ do not sin; how does that square with the reality of moral failings among Christians?

3.If 1 John 3:9 implies that being born of God prevents sin, why do believers still commit wrongdoing?

4.1 John 3:12 references Cain’s murder of Abel; how do we handle possible conflicts with ancient human origins or archaeological evidence?

5.How does 1 John 3:14’s statement about passing from death to life through love hold up against the lack of any scientific or historical proof for this transformation?

1. How does knowing you are a child of God influence your perspective on your identity?

2. In what ways can you personally relate to the love that God has for His children as described in verses 1-3?

3. How does the hope of becoming like Christ when He appears inspire you to live a life of purity?

4. What is the connection between sin and lawlessness as described in verses 4-10? How does this apply in the current societal context?

5. In what ways can believers today distinguish themselves from the world as children of God?

6. How can you ensure that you do not merely pay lip service to love, but actively live it out?

7. Can you recall a time when you had to 'lay down your life' (sacrifice) for a fellow believer? How did this experience influence your understanding of love?

8. How does the story of Cain and Abel apply to our relationships with our brothers and sisters in Christ today?

9. How can believers provide assurance to their hearts in the face of self-condemnation?

10. How does the concept of God being greater than our hearts comfort you in times of guilt or self-doubt?

11. How does obedience to God’s commands play a role in maintaining a relationship with Him?

12. How can you be certain that you are living in God and He in you? How does this assurance shape your daily living?

13. What are practical ways you can demonstrate the love of God to others?

14. How can you apply the principles from this chapter to overcome the prevalent sins in today's society?

15. How does the reality of God's love for us empower us to live sacrificially for others?

16. How can you ensure that love is not just spoken, but shown in action and in truth in your life?

17. What are some practical ways to purify ourselves as Christ is pure?

18. How can the church today be a better reflection of the love and righteousness of God?

19. How does understanding that God is greater than our hearts help in dealing with personal failure and guilt?

20. In what ways does the Holy Spirit confirm to you personally that you are living in God and He in you?