1 John·Chapter 4

How to Apply

This week, take a moment to reflect on the voices in your life. Who are you listening to when it comes to your beliefs? Challenge yourself to read or listen to teachings that focus on Jesus and His message. Maybe pick up a book about His life or listen to a podcast that dives into who He is. Also, consider discussing your thoughts with a friend — it can be really enlightening to share perspectives! Make it a point to engage with teachings that help you deepen your understanding of Jesus, and be open to how that shapes your worldview. You’ve got this!

Chapter Context

Now, let’s zoom out a bit. This verse is nestled in a chapter that’s all about love, truth, and the spirit of God. Before this moment, the writer is encouraging you to test the spirits — basically, to be smart about what you believe and who you trust. It’s like being in a debate where different opinions are flying around. This verse serves as a pivotal point, reminding you that if someone doesn’t confess Jesus, they’re not coming from God. It sets the stage for the bigger conversation about love and truth that follows, emphasizing that true love comes from knowing Jesus. It’s dramatic and crucial — it’s all about discerning where true love and truth originate!

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• every - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• spirit - 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".
• not - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• confess - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• jesus - 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".
• not - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• from - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

As you think about this verse, ask yourself: What does it mean for me to recognize and confess who Jesus is in my life? How does that shape my understanding of truth in the world around me?

Related Verses

• 2 John 1:7 - This verse warns about deceivers who do not acknowledge Jesus, reinforcing the idea that recognizing Him is crucial.
• Matthew 16:15-16 - Here, Peter confesses that Jesus is the Messiah, showing the importance of recognizing Jesus’ identity.
• 1 Timothy 4:1 - This verse speaks about false teachings in the last days, similar to John's concern about those not confessing Jesus.
• Isaiah 53:3 - Written 700 years before, this prophecy describes someone rejected, pointing to how Jesus would be viewed by many.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in 1 John 4:3. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Verses

1 John 4:1, 1 John 4:8, 1 John 4:10, 1 John 4:18, 1 John 4:20

Historical Context

1 John was written in a context where early Gnostic teachings were influencing the church, leading some to deny the humanity of Christ. John's epistle addresses these false teachings by affirming the true nature of Jesus as both fully divine and fully human. He emphasizes that genuine believers must test the teachings they encounter, ensuring they align with the core tenets of the Christian faith. The chapter also addresses the implications of God's love in the lives of believers, encouraging them to embody that love in their relationships with one another as a reflection of their relationship with God.