1 John·Chapter 3

How to Apply

Here’s a practical step: this week, take a moment to reflect on any grudges or negative feelings you might be holding onto. Write them down if it helps! Then, think about how you can take a small step towards forgiveness or understanding. Maybe it’s reaching out to someone to clear the air or simply letting go of those feelings in your heart. It could be as simple as saying a kind word to someone you’ve been distant with. Actively choosing love over hate can transform your relationships and your life.

Chapter Context

In this chapter, the writer is diving deep into what it means to truly love one another. Just before this verse, the writer talks about how love is the essence of a true community and how we should care for each other like family. This particular moment arrives as a stark contrast to that love. It’s like a sudden shift in music, where the joyful melody turns into a haunting note. The writer emphasizes that hate is the opposite of love, and this verse serves as a critical checkpoint in the narrative, pushing you to reflect on your feelings and actions as you navigate relationships.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• everyone - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• who - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• hates - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• his - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• brother - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• is - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• murderer - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• know - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• that - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What feelings of anger or resentment might you be holding onto, and how can choosing love change your perspective on those situations?

Related Verses

• Matthew 5:21-22 - Jesus teaches that even anger towards others can lead you down a harmful path, showing the importance of managing your feelings.
• 1 John 4:20 - This verse highlights the contradiction of claiming to love God while harboring hate for others, making it clear how intertwined love and community are.
• Proverbs 10:12 - Here, it states that love covers all wrongs, reinforcing the idea that love has the power to overcome negativity.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in 1 John 3:15. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Verses

1 John 3:1, 1 John 3:2, 1 John 3:10, 1 John 3:14, 1 John 3:18

Historical Context

Written during a time when false teachings were beginning to permeate the early church, particularly early Gnostic beliefs denying Christ's humanity, 1 John aims to provide clarity and assurance. John addresses concerns about salvation and the ethical implications of being a child of God. The chapter stands as a defense against those who would undermine the significance of Christ's incarnation and the practical outworking of faith in love and righteousness. John's pastoral heart aims to reassure believers of their status in Christ while calling them to a higher standard of living consistent with that identity.