1 John 1
Read 1 John 1 (WEB)+
1That which was from the beginning, that which we have heard, that which we have seen with our eyes, that which we saw, and our hands touched, concerning the Word of life 2(and the life was revealed, and we have seen, and testify, and declare to you the life, the eternal life, which was with the Father, and was revealed to us); 3that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us. Yes, and our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4And we write these things to you, that our joy may be fulfilled. 5This is the message which we have heard from him and announce to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6If we say that we have fellowship with him and walk in the darkness, we lie, and don’t tell the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ, his Son, cleanses us from all sin. 8If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10If we say that we haven’t sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
World English Bible (public domain)
“If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.”
1 John 1:6
Summary
1 John chapter 1 introduces the letter with a focus on the reality of Jesus Christ's incarnation. The author, presumed to be the Apostle John, emphasizes his firsthand experience of Jesus through seeing, hearing, and touching Him. This testimony assures the readers that the message about Jesus is not a myth but a matter of eyewitness experience. The chapter highlights the importance of fellowship with God and with one another, which is made possible through Christ. Central to this fellowship is the concept of 'walking in the light,' which involves living truthfully and in alignment with God's character. The chapter also acknowledges the reality of sin and provides a path to restoration through confession and the assurance of forgiveness. This introduction sets the tone for the letter's focus on the authentic Christian life rooted in love, truth, and fellowship with God.
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