King James Version
What Does 1 John 3:7 Mean?
“Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.”
Context
5
And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin.
6
Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him.
7
Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.
8
He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.
9
Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary**6. But--**"Nay, rather."
**he--**God.
**giveth more grace--**ever increasing grace; the farther ye depart from "envy" [Bengel].
**he saith--**The same God who causes His spirit to dwell in believers (Jas 4:5), by the Spirit also speaks in Scripture. The quotation here is probably from Pr 3:34; as probably Pr 21:10 was generally referred to in Jas 4:5. In Hebrew it is "scorneth the scorners," namely, those who think "Scripture speaketh in vain."
**resisteth--**literally, "setteth Himself in array against"; even as they, like Pharaoh, set themselves against Him. God repays sinners in their own coin. "Pride" is the mother of "envy" (Jas 4:5); it is peculiarly satanic, for by it Satan fell.
**the proud--**The Greek means in derivation one who shows himself above his fellows, and so lifts himself against God.
**the humble--**the unenvious, uncovetous, and unambitious as to the world. Contrast Jas 4:4.
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 3:7 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 3:7
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge