King James Version
What Does 1 John 1:3 Mean?
“That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.”
Context
1
That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;
2
(For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)
3
That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.
4
And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.
5
This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary9. Respect of persons violates the command to love all alike "as thyself."
**ye commit sin--**literally, "ye work sin," Mt 7:23, to which the reference here is probably, as in Jas 1:22. Your works are sin, whatever boast of the law ye make in words (see on Jas 2:8).
**convinced--**Old English for "convicted."
**as transgressors--**not merely of this or that particular command, but of the whole absolutely.
Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 1 John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
1 John 1:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 1 John 1:3
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge