King James Version

What Does 1 John 3:22 Mean?

“And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.”

Context

For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.

Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God.

And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.

And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.

And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.

Read full chapter →

Commentary

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**3. is cankered--**"rusted through" [Alford]. **rust ... witness against you--**in the day of judgment; namely, that your riches were of no profit to any, lying unemployed and so contracting rust. **shall eat your flesh--**The rust which once ate your riches, shall then gnaw your conscience, accompanied with punishment which shall prey upon your bodies for ever. **as ... fire--**not with the slow process of rusting, but with the swiftness of consuming fire. **for the last days--**Ye have heaped together, not treasures as ye suppose (compare Lu 12:19), but wrath against the last days, namely, the coming judgment of the Lord. Alford translates more literally, "In these last days (before the coming judgment) ye laid up (worldly) treasure" to no profit, instead of repenting and seeking salvation (see on Jas 5:5).

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 3:22 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.