Commentary on 1 John 2:3

Verse: "And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments."

Introduction

The Apostle John's first epistle serves as a critical text within the New Testament, emphasizing the relationship between knowledge of God and the obedience to His commandments. In 1 John 2:3, the author succinctly outlines a fundamental criterion for genuine faith: the observance of God's laws as a reflection of one's relationship with Him.

Exegesis and Context

John writes in a context where early Christian communities were grappling with various heretical teachings and moral failures. The marks of authentic Christian life were vitally important in distinguishing true believers from deceivers.

Understanding the Text

This verse serves as a pivotal linkage in John's argument. Knowing God is not merely intellectual assent but is intrinsically tied to one's actions—specifically, the keeping of His commandments. John introduces a criterion by which believers can assess their own spiritual condition.

Insights from Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry points out that knowledge of God is a practical matter. He stresses that “to know God” implies more than just an acquaintance; it signifies a personal relationship characterized by trust and obedience. Henry emphasizes:

• Knowledge Leads to Action: True knowledge of God translates into a transformed life that seeks to obey His commandments.
• Assurance of Salvation: The assurance of knowing God comes from the practice of keeping His commandments, offering believers confidence in their relationship with God.
• Commandments as Guidance: God's commandments are not burdensome but serve as a guiding framework for moral living.

Albert Barnes' Notes

Albert Barnes emphasizes the link between love, obedience, and knowing God in his interpretation of this verse. He notes:

• Obedience as Evidence: Barnes explicates that obedience serves as evidence of genuine faith; one who claims to know Him but lives in disobedience shows themselves to be a liar.
• The Nature of God’s Commandments: He underscores the idea that God’s commandments are rooted in love, and fulfilling them is a reflection of one’s love for God.
• Active vs. Passive Knowledge: The knowledge of God must be active and manifest in the believer's life, which contradicts any idea that intellectual understanding alone suffices.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke provides a thorough examination of the term "know" in this verse, suggesting that it involves a deep relational aspect:

• Deep Connection to Christ: Clarke expresses that to truly know God is to experience an intimate relationship with Him through Jesus Christ, which is revealed through obedience.
• Practical Outworking of Faith: He argues that this verse encapsulates the practical outworking of genuine faith, highlighting the necessity of moral conduct that aligns with divine commandments.
• Testing Oneself: The call to keep commandments serves as a self-examination for believers; it prompts reflection on whether one's life embodies the teachings of Christ.

The Theological Implications

This verse invites deeper theological reflection on the nature of salvation and the role of obedience in the life of the believer:

• Salvation and Works: While salvation is through grace, this scripture points to the necessity of works as evidence of faith; works are not the means of salvation but rather the fruit thereof.
• Relationship Over Ritual: The emphasis is on relationship rather than mere ritualistic obedience. Knowing God transforms the heart, resulting in conformity to His will.
• The Spirit's Role: This element of keeping commandments is enabled by the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to live righteously and fulfills the law within them.

Applications for Believers

For pastoring, studying, and preaching, applying the truths of 1 John 2:3 can bear great fruit in the lives of believers:

• Encouraging Obedience: Pastors can encourage congregations to view commandments not as a burden but as a pathway to knowing God more deeply.
• Fostering Self-Examination: This verse can prompt self-evaluation amongst believers, inviting them to consider how their lives align with their knowledge of God.
• Highlighting God’s Love: Teach that keeping commandments is an outflow of love for God, emphasizing that they reflect His character and nature.

Conclusion

In summary, 1 John 2:3 provides profound insight into the believer's relationship with God. Genuine knowledge of God is inseparably linked to obedience, where keeping His commandments stands as an authentic testament of faith. As reflected in historical commentaries, it is vital for the church today to embrace both the relational and moral dimensions of faith, ensuring that followers of Christ embody the very truths they profess.