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1 John

1 John front

1 John front:intro

Introduction to 1 John

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of 1 John
  1. Introduction (1:1-4)
  2. Christian living (1:5-3:10)
  3. The command to love one another (3:11-5:12)
  4. Conclusion (5:13-21)
Who wrote the Book of 1 John?

This book does not name the author. However, since early Christian times, most Christians have thought that the Apostle John was the author. He was also wrote of the Gospel of John.

What is the Book of 1 John about?

John wrote this letter to Christians at a time when false teachers were troubling them. John wrote this letter because he wanted to prevent believers from sinning. He wanted to protect believers from false teachings. And he wanted to assure believers that they were saved.

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, "1 John" or "First John." Or they may choose a clearer title, such as "The First Letter From John" or "The First Letter John Wrote." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

Who were the people that John spoke against?

The people John spoke against were possibly those who would become known as Gnostics. These people believed that the physical world was evil. Since they believed Jesus was divine, they denied that he was truly human. This is because they thought God would not become human since the physical body is evil. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What do the words "remain," "reside," and "abide" mean in 1 John?

John often used the words "remain," "reside," and "abide" as metaphors. John spoke of a believer becoming more faithful to Jesus and knowing Jesus better as if Jesus' word "remained" in the believer. Also, John spoke of someone being spiritually joined to someone else as if the person "remained" in the other person. Christians are said to "remain" in Christ and in God. The Father is said to "remain" in the Son, and the Son is said to "remain" in the Father. The Son is said to "remain" in believers. The Holy Spirit is also said to "remain" in the believers.

Many translators will find it impossible to represent these ideas in their languages in exactly the same way. For example, John intended to express the idea of the Christian being spiritually together with God when he said, "He who says he remains in God" (1 John 2:6). The UDB says, "If we say that we are in union with God," but translators will often have to find other expressions that communicate these ideas well.

In the passage, "the word of God remains in you" (1 John 2:13), the UDB expresses this idea as, "you continue to obey what God commands." Many translators will find it possible to use this translation as a model.

What are the major issues in the text of the Book of 1 John?

The following are the most significant textual issues in 1 John:

  • "And we are writing these things to you so that our joy may be complete." (1:4) The ULB, UDB, and most modern versions read this way. Some older versions have, "And we are writing these things to you so that your joy may be complete."
  • "And you all know the truth." (2:20) The ULB, UDB, and most modern versions read either this way or as follows: "And you all have knowledge." Some older versions have, "and you know all things."
  • "and this is what we are!" (3:1). The ULB, UDB, and most modern versions read this way. Some older manuscripts omit this phrase.
  • "and every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God." (4:3) The ULB, UDB, and most modern versions have this reading. Some older manuscripts read, "and every spirit that does not acknowledge that Jesus has come in the flesh is not of God."
  • "For there are three that bear witness in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness on earth: the Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three are as one." (5:7-8). The ULB, UDB, and most other versions do not read this way. Translators are advised to translate this as ULB does. However, if in the translators' region, there are older versions of the Bible that include this passage, the translators can include it. If it is included, it should be put inside square brackets ([]) to indicate that it was probably not in the original version of 1 John. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-textvariants/01.md]])

(See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-textvariants/01.md]])

1 John 1

1 John 1:intro-0

1 John 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This letter does not begin in the way letters in the ancient Near East traditionally began. Instead, it begins in a similar way to the Gospel of John. Both do not really have an introduction of any kind. John appears to almost begin in the middle of an idea.

Special concepts in this chapter
# Christians and sin

This chapter teaches that all Christians remain sinners after they come to faith in Jesus. Despite this, God still forgives a Christian's sins. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/faith.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/forgive.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter
# Metaphors

There are many metaphors in this chapter, all of which are commonly used in Scripture. Light is always used in a positive way to describe righteousness. Darkness is always used in a negative way to describe unrighteousness. The Christian life is also described as a walk. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/righteous.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/unrighteous.md]])

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1 John 1:1-2

General Information:

The apostle John wrote this letter to believers. All instances of "you," "your," and "yours" include all believers and are plural. Here the words "we" and "us" refer to John and those who had been with Jesus. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

General Information:

In verses 1-2 many pronouns like "that," "which," and "it" are used. They refer to "the Word of life" and "the eternal life." But, since these are names for Jesus, you can use pronouns that refer to a person like "who," "whom" or "he." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

That which was from the beginning

The phrase "That which was from the beginning" refers to Jesus, who existed before everything was made. AT: "We are writing to you about the one who existed before the creation of all things"

the beginning

"the beginning of all things" or "the creation of the world"

which we have heard

"which we have heard him teach"

which we have seen ... we have looked at

This is repeated for emphasis. AT: "which we ourselves have seen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the Word of life

The "Word of life" is Jesus. AT: "Jesus, the one who causes people to live forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

life

The word "life" throughout this letter refers to more than physical life. It stands here for Jesus, the eternal life. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the life was made known

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God made the eternal life known to us" or "God made us able to know him, who is eternal life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

we have seen it

"we have seen him"

we bear witness to it

"we solemnly tell others about him"

the eternal life

Here, "the eternal life" refers to the one who gives that life, Jesus. AT: "the one who enables us to live forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

which was with the Father

"who was with God the Father"

and which has been made known to us

This was when he lived on earth. AT: "and he came to live among us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 1:3-4

General Information:

Here the words "we," "us," and "our" refer to John and those who had been with Jesus. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

That which we have seen and heard we declare also to you

"We say to you also what we have seen and heard"

have fellowship with us. Our fellowship is with the Father

"be our close friends. We are friends with God the Father"

Our fellowship

It is not clear if John is including or excluding his readers. You may translate this either way.

Father ... Son

These are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples/01.md]])

so that our joy will be complete

"to make our joy complete" or "to make ourselves completely happy"

translationWords

1 John 1:5-7

Connecting Statement:

From here into the next chapter, John writes about fellowship—close relationships with God and other believers.

General Information:

Here the words "we" and "us" refer to all believers, including the people to whom John was writing. Unless otherwise stated, that is the meaning for the remainder of this book. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

God is light

This means that God is perfectly pure and holy. Cultures that associate goodness with light may be able to keep the idea of light without explaining the metaphor. AT: "God is purely righteous like pure light" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

in him there is no darkness at all

This means that God never sins and is not evil in any way. Cultures that associate evil with darkness may be able to keep the idea of darkness without explaining the metaphor. AT: "in him there is no darkness of sin" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

walk in darkness

This means "practice evil" or "do evil." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

walk in the light

This means "practice goodness" or "do what is good." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the blood of Jesus

This refers to the death of Jesus. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Son

This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 1:8-10

General Information:

Here the words "he," "him," and "his" refer to God. (See: 1 John 1:5)

have no sin

"never sin"

are deceiving

"are tricking" or "lying to"

the truth is not in us

The truth is spoken of as if it were an object that could be inside believers. AT: "we do not believe what God says is true" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. John uses them to emphasize that God will surely forgive our sins. AT: "and will completely forgive us of what we have done wrong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

we make him out to be a liar

It is implied that a person who claims to be without sin would be calling God a liar since he said that everyone is a sinner. AT: "it is the same as calling him a liar, because he said we have all sinned" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

his word is not in us

"Word" here is a metonym for "message." Obeying and honoring God's word is spoken of as if his word were inside the believers. AT: "we do not understand God's word nor obey what he says" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 2

1 John 2:intro-0

1 John 02 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter
# New and old commandments

The old commandments are contained in the law of Moses. The new commandments are those given to the church after the death and resurrection of Jesus. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lawofmoses.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/resurrection.md]])

# Antichrist

This chapter refers to both a specific Antichrist and many different antichrists. The word "antichrist" means "opposed to Christ." The Antichrist is a person who will come in the last days and imitate the ministry of Jesus for evil. Before this person comes, there will be many different people who work against the cause of Christ and are referred to as "antichrists" because they are working against Jesus. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/antichrist.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lastday.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter
# Metonymy

There are many different metonymies used in this chapter. They are used to teach and to give instructions that are generic and can be applied in many different circumstances. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
# "By this we know that we know him: if we keep his commandments."

This appears to contradict John's earlier statement that Christian do not always keep God's commandments. John has just stated that all Christians sin. John explains that the desire to serve God is born from the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and the new life or nature given to Christians. The word "know" can be understood in many different ways and this range of meaning can cause confusion here.

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1 John 2:1-3

Connecting Statement:

John continues to write about fellowship and shows that it is possible because Jesus goes between believers and the Father.

General Information:

Here the words "we" and "us" refer to John and all believers. The words "him" and "his" could refer to God the Father or to Jesus. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

Children

John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. AT: "My dear children in Christ" or "You who are as dear to me as my own children" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I am writing these things

"I am writing this letter"

But if anyone sins

"But when anyone sins." This is something that is likely to happen.

we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, the one who is righteous

The word "advocate" here refers to Jesus. AT: "we have Jesus Christ, the one who is righteous, who speaks to the Father and asks him to forgive us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

He is the propitiation for our sins

"God is no longer angry with us, because Jesus sacrificed his own life for our sins" or "Jesus is the one who sacrificed his life for our sins, so God is no longer angry with us for our sins"

We know that we have come to know him

"We know that we know him" or "We know that we have a good relationship with him"

if we keep his commandments

"if we obey what he commands"

translationWords

1 John 2:4-6

The one who says

"Anyone who says" or "The person who says"

I know God

"I have a good relationship with God"

does not keep

"does not obey" or "disobeys"

his commandments

"what God tells him to do"

the truth is not in him

The truth is spoken of as if it were an object that could be inside the believers. AT: "he does not believe what God says is true" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

keeps his word

"obeys what God tells him to do." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

in him truly the love of God has been perfected

This can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) "the love of God" refers to a person loving God, and "perfected" represents completely or fully. AT: "it is that person who loves God completely" or 2) "the love of God" refers to God loving people, and "perfected" represents completing its purpose. AT: "God's love has achieved its purpose in that person's life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-possession/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

By this we know that we are in him

The phrase "we are in him" means that the believer has fellowship with God. AT: "When we obey what God says, we can be certain that we have fellowship with him" or "By this we know that are joined to God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

remains in God

To remain in God means to continue to have fellowship with God. AT: "continues to have fellowship with God" or "stays joined to God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

should himself also walk just as he walked

Conducting one's life is spoken of as if it were walking. AT: "must live as he lived" or "should also obey God just as Jesus Christ did" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 2:7-8

Connecting Statement:

John gives believers basic principles of fellowship—obedience and love.

Beloved, I am

"You people whom I love, I am" or "Dear friends, I am"

I am not writing a new commandment to you, but an old commandment

"I write to you to love one other, which is not a new thing to do but an old commandment that you had heard." John refers to Jesus' command to love one another.

from the beginning

Here, "beginning" refers to when they decided to follow Christ. AT: "from when you first believed in Christ" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

The old commandment is the word that you heard.

"Word" here is a synecdoche for "message." AT: "The old commandment is the message that you heard. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Yet I am writing a new commandment to you

"But in one way the commandment I write to you is a new commandment"

which is true in Christ and in you

"which is true, as shown in Christ's deeds and your deeds"

the darkness is passing away, and the true light is already shining

Here "darkness" refers to evil and "light" refers to goodness. AT: "because you are ceasing to do evil and you are doing more and more good" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 2:9-11

General Information:

Here the word "brother" refers to a fellow Christian.

The one who says

"Anyone who says" or "Someone who claims." This does not refer to a specific person.

he is in the light

This is a picture of living right. When people do what is right, they can do it in the light and not hide in the dark. AT: "he does what is right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

is in the darkness

This is a picture of living sinfully. When people do what is wrong, they like to hide in the dark. AT: "is in the darkness, doing what is evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

there is no occasion for stumbling in him

"nothing will cause him to stumble." The word "stumbling" is a metaphor that means to fail spiritually or morally. AT: "nothing will cause him to sin" or "he will not fail to do what is pleasing to God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

is in the darkness and walks in the darkness

"Walks" here is an idiom for "lives." This same idea is said twice to bring attention to how evil it is to hate a fellow believer. AT: "is living in darkness" or "is living in the darkness of sin" or "is in the darkness and lives in the darkness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

he does not know where he is going

This is a picture of the believer who is not living as a Christian should be living. AT: "he does not know what he should do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the darkness has blinded his eyes

"the darkness has made him unable to see." Darkness is a metaphor for sin or evil. AT: "sin has made it impossible for him to understand the truth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 2:12-14

General Information:

John explains why he is writing his letter either to different age groups or to believers with differences in maturity. Try to use similar wording for these sentences, as they are written poetically.

you, dear children

John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. See how you translated this in 1 John 2:1. AT: "you, my dear children in Christ" or "you who are as dear to me as my own children" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

your sins are forgiven

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God forgives your sins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

because of his name

"his name" refers to Christ and who he is. AT: "because of what Christ has done for you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I am writing to you, fathers

The word "fathers" here is possibly a metaphor referring to mature believers. AT: "I am writing to you, mature believers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you know

"you have a relationship with"

the one who is from the beginning

"the one who has always lived" or "the one who has always existed." It refers either to "Jesus" or to "God the Father."

young men

This possibly refers to those who are no longer new believers but are growing in spiritual maturity. AT: "young believers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you are strong

Here "strong" refers not to believers' physical strength, but to their faithfulness to Christ. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the word of God remains in you

"Word of God" here is a metonym for the message from God. The writer refers to the believers' increased faithfulness to Christ and knowledge of him as if he were speaking of God's word existing in them. AT: "God's message continues to teach you" or "you know the word of God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

overcome

The writer is speaking of the believers' refusal to follow Satan and of their frustrating his plans as if it were a matter of conquering him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 2:15-17

Do not love the world nor

In 2:15-17 the word "world" refers to all the things people want to do that do not honor God. AT: "Do not behave like the people in the world who do not honor God, and do not love" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the things that are in the world

"the things that those who dishonor God want"

If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him

A person cannot love this world and all that dishonors God and love the Father at the same time. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the love of the Father is not in him

"he does not love the Father"

the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the arrogance of life

This is a list of some of the things in the world. It explains what is meant by "everything that is in the world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the lust of the flesh

"the strong desire to have sinful physical pleasure"

the lust of the eyes

"the strong desire to have things that we see"

the arrogance of life

"pride of life." This could imply both possessions and attitudes. AT: "the bragging about what a person has or does" or "the pride people feel because of their things and what he does"

is not from the Father

"does not come from the Father" or "is not how the Father teaches us to live"

are passing away

"pass away" or "will one day not be here"

translationWords

1 John 2:18-19

Connecting Statement:

John warns about those who are against Christ.

Little children

"Immature Christians." See how you translated this in 1 John 2:1.

it is the last hour

The phrase "the last hour" refers to the time just before Jesus returns. AT: "Jesus will return soon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

many antichrists have come

"there are many people who are against Christ"

have come. By this we know

"have come, and because of this we know" or "have come, and because many antichrists have come, we know"

They went out from us

"They left us"

but they were not from us

"but they did not really belong to us anyway" or "but they were not really part of our group in the first place." The reason they were not really part of the group is that they were not believers in Jesus.

For if they had been from us they would have remained with us

"We know this because they would not have left us if they really had been believers"

translationWords

1 John 2:20-21

General Information:

In the Old Testament the word "anointing" referred to pouring oil on a person to set him apart to serve God.

But you have an anointing from the Holy One

John speaks of the Holy Spirit as if he were "an anointing" that the people have received from Jesus. The abstract noun "anointing" can be translated with a verbal phrase. AT: "But the Holy One has anointed you" or "But Jesus Christ, the Holy One, has given you his Spirit" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the Holy One

This refers to Jesus. AT: "Jesus, the Holy One" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the truth ... no lie is from the truth

The abstract noun "truth" can be translated as an adjective. AT: "what is true ... no lie comes from what is true" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 2:22-23

Who is the liar but the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ?

"Who is the liar? Anyone who denies that Jesus is the Christ." John used a question to emphasize who liars are. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

denies that Jesus is the Christ

"refuses to say that Jesus is the Christ" or "says that Jesus is not the Messiah"

denies the Father and the Son

"refuses to say the truth about the Father and the Son" or "rejects the Father and the Son."

Father ... Son

These are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples/01.md]])

has the Father

"belongs to the Father"

acknowledges the Son

"speaks the truth about the Son"

has the Father

"belongs to the Father"

translationWords

1 John 2:24-26

Connecting Statement:

John reminds believers to continue in what they have first heard.

General Information:

Here the word "you" is plural and refers to the people to whom John wrote as well as all believers. The word "he" is emphatic and refers to Christ. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

As for you

This marks John's telling them how they should live as followers of Jesus instead of how those against Christ live.

let what you have heard from the beginning remain in you

"remember and believe what you have heard from the beginning." How they heard it, what they heard, and what "the beginning" means can be made explicit: AT: "continue to trust what we have taught you about Jesus just as you have trusted since you first became believers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

what you have heard from the beginning

"what we taught you about Jesus when you first became believers"

If what you heard from the beginning remains in you

The word "remains" is talking about relationship, not salvation. AT: "If you continue to trust what we first taught you"

also remain in the Son and in the Father

"also have a relationship with the Son and with the Father." See how this was translated in 1 John 2:5-6.

This is the promise he gave to us—eternal life.

"This is what he promised to give us—eternal life" or "He has promised to cause us to live forever"

life

The word "life" throughout this letter refers to more than physical life. It stands here for Jesus, the eternal life. See how you translated this in 1 John 1:1-2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

those who would lead you astray

Here "lead you astray" is a metaphor for persuading someone to believe something that is not true. AT: "those who want to deceive you" or "those who want to make you believe lies about Jesus Christ" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 2:27-29

Connecting Statement:

Starting in verse 29, John introduces the idea of being born into God's family. The previous verses show that believers continue to sin; this part shows that believers also have the new nature, which cannot sin. It continues to show how believers can recognize each other.

As for you

This marks John's telling them something else about how they should live as followers of Jesus instead of following those who are against Christ.

the anointing

This refers to "God's Spirit." See the note about "anointing" in 1 John 2:20.

as his anointing teaches you everything

Here the word "everything" is a generalization. AT: "because his anointing teaches you everything that you need to know" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

remain in him

To remain in someone means to continue to have fellowship with him. See how you translated "remains in God" in 1 John 2:5-6. AT: "continue to have fellowship with him" or "stay joined with him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Now

This word is used here to mark a new part of the letter.

dear children

John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. See how you translated this in 1 John 2:1. AT: "my dear children in Christ" or "you who are as dear to me as my own children" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he appears

"we see him"

boldness

having no fear

not be ashamed before him

"not be ashamed in his presence"

at his coming

"when he comes again"

has been born from him

"has been born of God" or "is God's child"

translationWords

1 John 3

1 John 3:intro-0

1 John 03 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter
# Children of God

The author, John, was a Jew, but he did not become a child of God until after he came to faith in Jesus. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/faith.md]])

# Cain

Cain was a son of the first man, Adam, and the first woman, Eve. He murdered his brother out of jealousy or envy. This reference is difficult to understand if Genesis has not yet been translated. Additional explanation may be necessary.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
# "To know"

The verb "to know" is used in a way that means "to understand." It is a type of knowledge based on one's experiences. Care should be taken when translating this word because it is not the primary definition of the term.

# Keeps sinning and doing righteousness

There are many instructions in this chapter that will change their meaning if they are translated as happening continually or in another way. This passage is especially difficult in light of the fact that the first chapter teaches that Christians inevitably sin. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]])

# "He who keeps God's commandments remains in him, and God remains in him"

Many scholars believe this is about remaining in the will of God and is not a reference to a person's eternal salvation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/eternity.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Links:

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1 John 3:1-3

Connecting Statement:

In this part John tells the believers about their new nature, which cannot sin.

See what kind of love the Father has given to us

"Think about how our Father loves us so much"

we should be called children of God

"the Father called us his children"

children of God

Here this means people who belong to God through faith in Jesus.

For this reason, the world does not know us, because it did not know him

Possible meanings are 1) "Because we are the children of God and because the world did not know God, it does not know us" or 2) "Because the world did not know God, it does not know us."

the world does not know us, because it did not know him

Here "the world" refers to people who do not honor God. What the world did not know can be made explicit: AT: "those who do not honor God do not know that we belong to God, because they did not know God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Beloved, we are

"You people whom I love, we are" or "Dear friends, we are." See how you translated this in 1 John 2:7.

it has not yet been revealed

This can be stated in active form: AT: "God has not yet revealed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

revealed

This can mean here either "told," "demonstrated," or "shown."

Everyone who has this hope fixed on him purifies himself just as he is pure

"Everyone who confidently expects to see Christ as he really is will keep himself pure because Christ is pure"

translationWords

1 John 3:4-6

Christ was revealed

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Christ appeared" or "the Father revealed Christ" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

remains in him

"has a relationship with God." See how this was translated in 1 John 2:5-6.

No one ... has seen him or known him

John uses the words "seen" and "known" to say that the person who sins has never met Christ in a spiritual sense. A person behaving according to his sinful nature cannot know Christ. AT: "No one ... has ever truly believed in him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 3:7-8

Dear children

John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. See how you translated this in 1 John 2:1. AT: "My dear children in Christ" or "You who are as dear to me as my own children" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

do not let anyone lead you astray

Here "lead you astray" is a metaphor for persuading someone to believe something that is not true. AT: "do not let anyone fool you" or "do not let anyone deceive you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

The one who does righteousness is righteous, just as Christ is righteous

"He who does what is right is pleasing to God just as Christ is pleasing to God."

is from the devil

"belongs to the devil" or "is like the devil"

from the beginning

This refers to the very earliest time of creation before humans first sinned. AT: "since the earliest time of creation" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the Son of God was revealed

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God revealed his Son" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 3:9-10

Connecting Statement:

For now John ends this section on the new birth and the new nature which cannot sin.

Whoever has been born from God

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Whoever God has made his child" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

God's seed

This speaks of the Holy Spirit, whom God gives to believers and who makes them able to resist sin and do what pleases God as if he were a physical seed that is planted in the earth and grows. This is sometimes referred to as the new nature. AT: "the Holy Spirit" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he has been born of God

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God has given him new spiritual life" or "he is a child of God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

In this the children of God and children of the devil are revealed

This can be stated in active form. AT: "This is how we know the children of God and the children of the devil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Whoever does not do what is righteous is not from God, neither is the one who does not love his brother

The words "from God" are understood in the second part of the sentence. This can also be stated in positive form. AT: "whoever does not do what is righteous is not from God; whoever does not love his brother is also not from God" or "those who do what is righteous are from God, and those who love their brothers are from God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

his brother

Here "brother" means fellow Christians.

translationWords

1 John 3:11-12

Connecting Statement:

Here John teaches believers how they can recognize each other by the way they live; he teaches his readers to love each other.

General Information:

Cain and Abel were the first sons of Adam and Eve, the first man and woman.

We should not be like Cain

"We should not do as Cain did"

brother

This refers to Cain's younger brother Abel.

Why did he kill him? Because

John uses a question to teach his audience. This can be translated as a statement. AT: "He killed him because" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

his works were evil and his brother's righteous

The words "works were" are also understood in the second phrase. AT: "Cain's works were evil and his brother's works were righteous" or "Cain did evil things and his brother did what was right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 3:13-15

my brothers

"my fellow believers." John's readers were both male and female.

if the world hates you

Here the word "world" refers to the people who do not honor God. AT: "if those who do not honor God hate you who do honor God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

we have passed out of death into life

The conditions of living and of being dead are spoken of as if they were physical locations from which a person could leave and go to. The abstract nouns "life" and "death" can be translated with verbal phrases. AT: "we are no longer spiritually dead but are spiritually alive" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

life

The word "life" throughout this letter refers to more than physical life. It stands here for Jesus, the eternal life. See how you translated this in 1 John 1:1-2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

remains in death

"is still spiritually dead"

Anyone who hates his brother is a murderer

John speaks of a person who hates another believer as if he were a murderer. Since people commit murder because they hate other people, God considers anyone who hates to be as guilty as someone who kills a person. AT: "Whoever hates another believer is as guilty as someone who kills a person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

no murderer has eternal life residing in him

"Eternal life" is something God gives believers after they die, but it is also the power God gives believers in this life to help them to stop sinning and to do what please him. Here eternal life is spoken of as if it were a person that could live in someone. AT: "a murderer does not have the power of spiritual life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 3:16-18

Christ laid down his life for us

This expression means "Christ willingly gave his life for us" or "Christ willingly died for us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the world's goods

material possessions like money, food, or clothing

sees his brother in need

"realizes a fellow believer needs help"

and shuts up his heart of compassion from him

"Heart" here is a metonym for "thoughts and intentions." AT: "and does not show him compassion" or "and does not willingly help him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

how does the love of God remain in him?

John uses a question to teach his audience. AT: "God's love is not in him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

My dear children

John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. See how you translated this in 1 John 2:1. AT: "My dear children in Christ" or "You who are as dear to me as my own children" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

let us not love in word nor in tongue, but in actions and truth

The phrases "in word" and "in tongue" both refer to what a person says. The word "love" is understood in the second part of the sentence. AT: "do not just say that you love people, but show that you truly love people by helping them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 3:19-22

Connecting Statement:

Here John probably means that believers' ability to love God and each other sincerely (See: 1 John 3:18) is a sign that their new life has indeed originated from the truth about Christ.

we are from the truth

"we belong to the truth" or AT: "we are living according the way Jesus taught us"

we assure our hearts

The word "heart" here refers to feelings. AT: "we do not feel guilty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

if our hearts condemn us

"Hearts" here is a metonym for "thoughts and intentions." AT: "if the way we think and the way we intend to act make us feel guilty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

God is greater than our hearts

God knows more than a person and judges better. The effect of this truth is probably that God is more merciful than our consciences would suppose. This quality of God is expressed by the term "greater." AT: "God knows more than we do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Beloved, if

"You people whom I love, if" or "Dear friends, if." See how you translated this in 1 John 2:7.

do the things that are pleasing before him

God's opinion is spoken of as if it depends on what he sees happen in front of himself. AT: "we do what pleases him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 3:23-24

This is his commandment: that we should believe ... just as he gave us this commandment

The abstract noun "commandment" can be stated as "command." AT: "This is what God commands us to do: Believe ... just as he commanded us to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Son

This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples/01.md]])

remains in him, and God remains in him

The close union of believers is expressed by the terms "remains in him." See how "remains in God" was translated in 1 John 2:5-6. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 4

1 John 4:intro-0

1 John 04 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter
# Spirit

This single word is used in many different ways in this chapter. It is used to reference non-physical things, specifically "spirits" who bear witness in some way in "spiritual" or religious matters. The "Spirit of God" is God. The "spirit" of the antichrist is that which is typical of the Antichrist. This is the same way it is used in the phrases the "spirit of truth" and the "spirit of error." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/antichrist.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
# Loving God

If people love God, their love should be displayed in the way they live their lives and the way they treat other people. It is not necessary to conclude the Christian's salvation is dependent upon these behaviors. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Links:

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1 John 4:1-3

General Information:

John gives a warning against false teachers who teach against Christ's having had a human body and teachers who talk the way those who love the world talk.

Beloved, do not believe

"You people whom I love, do not believe" or "Dear friends, do not believe." See how you translated this in 1 John 2:7.

do not believe every spirit

Here, the word "spirit" refers to a spiritual power or being that gives a person a message or prophecy. AT: "do not trust every prophet who claims to have a message from a spirit" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

test the spirits

Here, the word "spirits" refers to a spiritual power or being that gives a person a message or prophecy. AT: "think carefully about what the prophet says" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

has come in the flesh

Here "flesh" represents the human body. AT: "has come as a human being" or "has come in a physical body" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming, and now is already in the world

"These are prophets opposed to Christ, whom you have heard are coming, and now are already in the world"

translationWords

1 John 4:4-6

dear children

John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. See how you translated this in 1 John 2:1. AT: "my dear children in Christ" or "you who are as dear to me as my own children" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

have overcome them

"have not believed the false teachers"

the one who is in you is

"God, who is in you, is"

the one who is in the world

Two possible meanings are 1) this refers to Satan. AT: "Satan, who is in the world" or "Satan, who works through those who do not obey God" or 2) this refers to worldly teachers. AT: "worldly teachers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

They are from the world

The words "are from" are a metaphor for "receive their power and authority." "The world" is a metonym ultimately for "the one who is in the world," Satan, though it is also a metonym for sinful people who gladly listen to them and so also give them authority. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

therefore what they say is from the world

"The world" here is a metonym ultimately for "the one who is in the world," Satan, though it is also a metonym for sinful people who gladly listen to them and so also give them authority. AT: "therefore they teach what they have learned from sinful people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

and the world listens to them

The words "the world" are a metonym for people who do not obey God. AT: "so the people who do not obey God listen to them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 4:7-8

General Information:

John continues to teach about the new nature. He teaches his readers about God's love and loving one another.

Beloved, let us love

"You people whom I love, let us love" or "Dear friends, let us love." See how you translated "Beloved" in 1 John 2:7.

let us love one another

"believers are to love other believers"

and everyone who loves is born from God and knows God

"and because those who love their fellow believers have become God's children and know him"

for love is from God

"because God causes us to love each other"

born from God

This is a metaphor which means someone has a relationship to God like a child to his father. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

The person who does not love does not know God, for God is love

The phrase "God is love" a metaphor which means "the character of God is love." AT: "Those who do not love their fellow believers do not know God because the character of God is to love people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 4:9-10

Because of this ... among us, that God has sent his only Son

"Because of this ... among us: God has sent his only Son." The phrase "Because of this" refers to the phrase "that God has sent his only Son."

the love of God was revealed among us

The noun "love" can be translated as a verb. This phrase can be made active. AT: "God showed that he loves us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

so that we would live because of him

"to enable us to live eternally because of what Jesus did"

In this is love

"God showed us what real love is"

he sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins

Here "propitiation" refers to Jesus' death on the cross appeasing God's wrath against sin. The word can be translated with a verbal phrase. AT: "he sent his Son to be the sacrifice that appeased his wrath against our sins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 4:11-14

Beloved, if

"You people whom I love, if" or "Dear friends, if." See how you translated this in 1 John 2:7.

if God so loved us

"since God loved us in this way"

we also should love one another

"believers are to love other believers"

God remains in us ... we remain in him and he in us

To remain in someone means to continue to have fellowship with him. See how you translated "remains in God" in 1 John 2:5-6. AT: "God continues to have fellowship with us ... we continue to have fellowship with God and he continues to have fellowship with us" or "God stays joined to us ... we stay joined to God and he stays joined to us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

and he in us

The word "remains" is understood from the previous phrase. AT: "and he remains in us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

his love is perfected in us

"God's love is complete in us"

By this we know ... us, because he has given

Your translation may be clearer if you omit either "by this" or "because." AT: "We know ... us because he gave" or "By this we know ... us: he gave"

because he has given us some of his Spirit

"because he gave us his Spirit" or "because he has put his Holy Spirit in us." This phrase, however, does not imply that God has less of his Spirit after he has given us some.

Also, we have seen and have borne witness that the Father has sent the Son to be the Savior of the world

"And we apostles have seen the Son of God and tell everyone that God the Father has sent his Son to save people on this earth"

Father ... Son

These are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 4:15-16

Whoever acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God

"Anyone who says the truth about Jesus, that he is the Son of God"

Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples/01.md]])

God remains in him and he in God

To remain in someone means to continue to have fellowship with him. See how you translated "remains in God" in 1 John 2:5-6. AT: "God continues to have fellowship with him and he continues to have fellowship with God" or "God stays joined to him and he stays joined to God (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

and he in God

The word "remains" is understood from the previous phrase. AT: "and he remains in God" (See: Ellipsis)

God is love

This is a metaphor which means "the character of God is love." See how you translated this in 1 John 4:8. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the one who remains in this love

"those who continue to love others"

remains in God, and God remains in him

To remain in someone means to continue to have fellowship with him. See how you translated "remains in God" in 1 John 2:5-6. AT: "continues to have fellowship with God, and God continues to have fellowship with him" or "stays joined with God, and God stays joined with him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 4:17-18

Because of this, this love has been made perfect among us, so that we will have confidence

This can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) "Because of this" refers back to 1 John 4:16. AT: "Because whoever lives in love is in God and God is in him, God has made his love for us complete, and so we may have complete confidence" or 2) "Because of this" refers to "we may have confidence." AT: "We are confident that God will accept us on the day he judges everyone, so we know he has made his love for us complete" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

this love has been made perfect among us

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God has made his love for us complete" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

because as he is, just so are we in this world

"because the relationship that Jesus has with God is the same relationship we have with God in this world"

Instead, perfect love throws out fear

Here "love" is described as a person with the power to remove fear. God's love is perfect. AT: "But when our love is complete, we are no longer afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

because fear has to do with punishment

"because we would be afraid only if we thought that he would punish us"

But the one who fears has not been made perfect in love

This can be stated in active form. AT: "But when a person is afraid that God will punish him, his love is not complete" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 4:19-21

hates his brother

"hates a fellow believer"

the one who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen

If two negative statements in a row are confusing, this can be translated differently. AT: "the one who hates his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 5

1 John 5:intro-0

1 John 05 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter
# Christian living

There is a close connection in this chapter between Christians' confession of faith in Jesus and the way they live their lives. Believing in Jesus requires one to live a godly life. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/faith.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/believe.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/godly.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
# Death

John's usage of death in this chapter always references physical death. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/death.md]])

# "We know that we are from God, and we know that the whole world lies in the evil one."

Satan, the evil one, is the ruler of this world, but ultimately God is in control over everything. Scripture describes Satan as the "prince" of this world and God as the "king" of all of creation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/satan.md]])

Links:

<< |

1 John 5:1-3

General Information:

John continues to teach his readers about God's love and the love believers are to have because they have this new nature from God.

is born from God

"is a child of God"

Because of this we know that we love God's children, when we love God and do his commandments.

"When we love God and do what he commands, then we know that we love his children"

For this is love for God: that we keep his commandments

"Because when we do what he commands, that is true love for God"

his commandments are not burdensome

"what he commands is not difficult"

burdensome

"heavy" or "crushing" or "difficult"

translationWords

1 John 5:4-5

everyone who is born from God overcomes

"all children of God overcome"

overcomes the world

"has victory over the world," "succeeds against the world," or "refuses to do the evil things unbelievers do"

the world

This passage uses "the world" to refer to all the sinful people and the evil systems in the world. AT: "everything in the world that is against God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

And this is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith

"And this is what gives us the power to resist whatever would lead us to sin against God: our faith" or "And it is our faith that gives us the power to resist whatever would lead us to sin against God"

Who is the one who overcomes the world?

John used this question to introduce something he wanted to teach. AT: "I will tell you who overcomes the world:" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

The one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God

This does not refer to a specific person but to anyone who believes this. AT: "Anyone who believes that Jesus is the Son of God"

Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 5:6-8

Connecting Statement:

John teaches about Jesus Christ and what God said about him.

This is the one who came by water and blood: Jesus Christ

"Jesus Christ is the one who came by water and blood." Here "water" is probably a metonym for the baptism of Jesus, and "blood" stands for Jesus' death on the cross. AT: "God showed that Jesus Christ is his son at Jesus' baptism and his death on the cross" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

He came not only by water, but also by water and blood

Here "water" is probably a metonym for the baptism of Jesus, and "blood" stands for Jesus' death on the cross. AT: "God did not show us Jesus was his son just through his baptism, but through his baptism and his death on the cross" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 5:9-10

If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater

The translator can state more clearly the implied reason about why we should believe what God says: AT: "If we believe what people say, then we should believe what God says because he always tells the truth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

receive the witness of men

The idiom to "receive the witness" means to believe what another person testifies concerning something that he has seen. The abstract noun "witness" can be translated with a verbal phrase. AT: "believe what men testify" or "believe what men say about what they have seen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the witness of God is greater

the witness of God is more important and more reliable

Son

This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples/01.md]])

Anyone who believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself

"Whoever believes in Jesus knows for sure Jesus is the Son of God"

has made him out to be a liar

"has called God a liar"

because he has not believed the witness that God has given concerning his Son

"because he has not believed that God has told the truth about his Son"

translationWords

1 John 5:11-12

And the witness is this

"This is what God says"

life

Here "life" stands for the right to live forever by God's grace and love. See how you translated this in 1 John 1:1-2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

this life is in his Son

"this life is through his Son" or "we will live forever if we are joined with his Son" or "we will live forever if we are united with his Son"

Son

This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples/01.md]])

The one who has the Son has life. The one who does not have the Son of God does not have life

Being in a close relationship to the Son is spoken of as having the Son. AT: "He who believes in the Son of God has eternal life. He who does not believe in the Son of God does not have eternal life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 5:13-15

General Information:

This begins the end of John's letter. He tells his readers the last purpose for his letter and gives them some final teachings.

these things

"this letter"

to you who believe in the name of the Son of God

Here "name" is a metonym for the Son of God. AT: "to you who trust in the Son of God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples/01.md]])

life

Here "life" stands for the right to live forever by God's grace and love. See how you translated this in 1 John 1:1-2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

this is the confidence we have before him, that

The abstract noun "confidence" can be stated as "confident." AT: "we are confident in God's presence because we know that" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

if we ask anything according to his will

"if we ask for the things that God desires"

we know that we have whatever we have asked of him

"we know that we will receive that for which we have asked God"

translationWords

1 John 5:16-17

his brother

"fellow believer"

life

Here "life" stands for the right to live forever by God's grace and love. See how you translated this in 1 John 1:1-2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

death

This refers to eternal death, that is, eternity spent away from God's presence.

translationWords

1 John 5:18-19

Connecting Statement:

John closes his letter, reviewing what he has said about the new nature of believers, which cannot sin, and he reminds them to keep themselves from idols.

the evil one cannot harm him

The phrase "the evil one" refers to Satan, the devil.

the whole world lies in the power of the evil one

Lying in someone's power represents being controlled or ruled by him. AT: "the whole world is controlled by the evil one" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the whole world

Here "world" is a way in which some biblical writers refer to the people living in the world who are in rebellion against God and to the world system that is affected in every way by the corrupting power of sin. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

1 John 5:20-21

Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples/01.md]])

has given us understanding

"has enabled us to understand the truth"

we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ

Being "in" someone represents having a close relationship with him, that is being united to him or belonging to him. The phrase "him who is true" refers to the true God, and the phrase "in his Son Jesus Christ" explains how we are in him who is true. AT: "we are united to him who is true by being united to his Son Jesus Christ"

him who is true

"the true one" or "the real God"

This one is the true God

Possible meanings are 1) "This one" refers to Jesus Christ, or 2) "This one" refers to the one true God.

and eternal life

He is called "eternal life" becasue he gives us eternal life. AT: "and the one who gives eternal life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Children

John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. See how you translated this in 1 John 2:1. AT: "My dear children in Christ" or "You who are as dear to me as my own children" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

keep yourselves from idols

"stay away from idols" or "do not worship idols"

translationWords