* Although they are not inspired, paragraph divisions are the key to understanding and following the original author's intent. Each modern translation has divided and summarized the paragraphs. Every paragraph has one central topic, truth, or thought. Each version encapsulates that topic in its own distinct way. As you read the text, ask yourself which translation fits your understanding of the subject and verse divisions.
In every chapter we must read the Bible first and try to identify its subjects (paragraphs), then compare our understanding with the modern versions. Only when we understand the original author's intent by following his logic and presentation can we truly understand the Bible. Only the original author is inspired—readers have no right to change or modify the message. Bible readers do have the responsibility of applying the inspired truth to their day and their lives.
Note that all technical terms and abbreviations are explained fully in the following documents: hyperlink, hyperlink, and hyperlink.
READING CYCLE THREE
FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR'S INTENT AT THE PARAGRAPH LEVEL
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
Read the chapter in one sitting. Identify the subjects. Compare your subject divisions with the five modern translations. Paragraphing is not inspired, but it is the key to following the original author's intent, which is the heart of interpretation. Every paragraph has one and only one subject.
1. First paragraph
2. Second paragraph
3. Third paragraph
4. Etc.
THEOLOGICAL BACKGROUND
A. This passage is related to the Prologue of John's Gospel (1Jn_1:1-10, before physical creation), which is related to Gen_1:1 (physical creation). However, here it refers to the beginning of Jesus' public ministry.
B. The emphasis is on
1. The full humanity of Jesus Christ
a. Participles related to the human senses: sight, sound, touch (cf. 1Jn_1:1; 1Jn_1:3). Jesus was truly human and physical
b. full titles of Jesus
(1) the Word of Life (cf. 1Jn_1:1)
(2) His Son Jesus Christ (cf. 1Jn_1:3)
2. Deity of Jesus of Nazareth
a. pre-existence (1Jn_1:1-2)
b. incarnation (1Jn_1:2)
These truths are directed against the Gnostic false teachers' worldview.
SYNTAX
A. 1Jn_1:1-4
1. 1Jn_1:1-3 a form one sentence in Greek.
2. The main verb "proclaim" is in 1Jn_1:3. The emphasis is on the content of Apostolic preaching.
3. There are four relative clauses in 1Jn_1:1 which are placed forward in their clauses for emphasis.
a. "what was from the beginning"
b. "what we have heard"
c. "what we have seen with our eyes"
d. "what we have looked at and touched with our hands"
4. 1Jn_1:2 seems to be a parenthesis concerning the incarnation of Christ. The fact that it is so awkward grammatically draws attention to it!
5. 1Jn_1:3-4 define the purposes of John's Apostolic proclamation: fellowship and joy. Apostolic eyewitness accounts were one of the early church's criteria for canonization.
6. Notice the flow of verb tenses in 1Jn_1:1
a. Imperfect (pre-existed)
b. Perfect, perfect (abiding truth)
c. Aorist, aorist (specific examples)
B. 1 John 1 :1Jn_1:5 to 1Jn_2:2
1. The pronouns in 1Jn_1:5 to 1Jn_2:2 are very ambiguous, but I think almost all of them except 1Jn_1:5, refer to the Father (similar to Eph_1:3-14)
2. All the "if's" are third class conditional sentences which speak of potential action.
3. There is a significant theological variation between
a. the verb tenses present versus aorist in reference to "sin"
b. the singular and plural, "sin" versus "sins"
THE HERETICS
A. The heretics' false claims can be seen in 1 John 1:1:6,8,10; 1Jn_2:4; 1Jn_2:6; 1Jn_2:9.
B. 1Jn_1:5-10 relate to the theological attempt to separate knowing God (theology) from following God (ethics). It represents an undue Gnostic overemphasis on knowledge. Those who know God will reveal His characteristics in their lifestyle.
C. 1Jn_1:8 to 1Jn_2:2 must be held in balance with 1Jn_3:6-9. They are two sides of one coin. They possibly refute two different errors:
1. theological error (no sin)
2. moral error (sin does not matter)
D. 1Jn_2:1-2 is an attempted balance between taking sin too lightly (antinomianism) and the recurrent problem of Christian judgmentalism, cultural legalism, or asceticism.
WORD AND PHRASE STUDY
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be thought-provoking, not definitive.
1. Why does John use so many verbs involving the five senses?
2. List the sacrificial terms found in 1Jn_1:7; 1Jn_1:9.
3. Explain the beliefs of the heretics who John is combating.
4. How does 1Jn_1:9 relate to both Gnostics and believers?
