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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comVincent Word Studies - 1 John 4:1 - 4:1
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This Chapter Verse Commentaries:
Beloved
Again the recognition of danger from false spirits prompts this affectionate address. Compare 1Jo 3:21.
Try (δοκιμάζετε)
Better, as Rev., prove. See on 1Pe 1:7; see on Luk 12:55. Compare the phrase discerning of spirits, 1Co 12:10.
Of God (ἐκ)
Out of: proceeding from.
False prophets (ψευδοπροφῆται)
The term is applied in the New Testament to rivals of true prophets under the old dispensation (Luk 6:26; 2Pe 2:1), and to rivals of the apostles under the gospel economy (Mat 7:15; Mat 24:11, Mat 24:24; Mar 13:22). In Revelation to “the embodied power of spiritual falsehood” (Rev 16:13; Rev 19:20; Rev 20:10). The false prophet supports his claims by signs and portents (Mat 24:24; Act 13:6; Rev 19:20) and is thus distinguished from the false teacher. See 2Pe 2:1, where the two terms occur together.
Are gone out (ἐξαληλύθασιν)
The perfect tense indicates that the influence of their going out on their false mission is in operation at the present.