Commentary on 1 John 2:1

Verse: "My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous."

Introduction

The epistle of 1 John was written to address the believers regarding their relationships, assurance of salvation, and the nature of sin. In 1 John 2:1, the apostle John, addressing his audience affectionately as "little children," presents profound theological insights into sin, advocacy, and righteous judgment.

Exegesis and Commentary

1. "My little children"

Matthew Henry notes that John's term "little children" reflects both affection and a spiritual fatherhood towards his readers. It highlights a protective and nurturing role, emphasizing the coming generation’s need for instruction.

2. "These things write I unto you, that ye sin not."

The purpose of John's writing is clear: to deter sin. Albert Barnes elaborates that John is stressing the importance of holiness and righteous living, indicating that it is possible to overcome sin through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Sin is portrayed as something incongruent with the believer’s calling in Christ.

3. "And if any man sin, we have an advocate..."

Adam Clarke interprets "advocate" in this context as one who intercedes on behalf of the sinner. The term emanates from a legal background, suggesting that Jesus takes a role akin to that of a defense attorney, advocating for believers in the heavenly court.

4. "With the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous"

John introduces Jesus not just as an advocate but as "the righteous" one. Matthew Henry points out that this righteousness is essential, as it underwrites the character of the intercession offered on behalf of believers. The presence of Jesus as the righteous advocate assures believers of their standing before God.

Theological Implications

This verse encapsulates key tenets of Christian theology: the nature of sin, intercession, and the concept of righteousness in salvation. It presents a holistic view of human frailty juxtaposed with divine grace.

Assurance of Forgiveness and Redemption

• Advocate: The assurance that there is an advocate against accusations of sin provides comfort and confidence to believers.
• Righteousness: Emphasizes that only the sacrificial atonement of Jesus could effectively satisfy divine justice.
• Sin Awareness: While believers are encouraged not to sin, there is an acknowledgment of failing human nature and the necessity of Christ’s intercession.

Practical Application

For pastors and theologians, 1 John 2:1 serves as a foundational text in doctrine about sin and atonement. It emphasizes the balance between striving for holiness and understanding the provision of grace.

1. Pastoral Care

This verse can provide great comfort to those in pastoral care. When counseling individuals burdened by guilt, the reminder of an advocate can help steer them toward hope rather than despair.

2. Preaching and Teaching

In teaching settings, the connection between striving for a sinless life and the reality of Christ’s role as an advocate can cultivate deeper congregational understanding and engagement with their faith journey.

3. Encouraging Righteous Living

The call to live without sin must be paired with the assurance of forgiveness when one falls short, creating a dynamic perspective that promotes both sanctification and reliance on divine grace.

Conclusion

Ultimately, 1 John 2:1 encapsulates the Christian experience of hope amid human failure. Through the lens of this verse, we see the need for both responsibility in moral conduct and the profound grace offered through Jesus Christ. It stands as a clarion call to live righteously yet trustfully, resting in the advocate who stands before the Father on our behalf.