1 John 2:7

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1 John 2:7 KJV

Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning.

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1 John 2:7 Bible Commentary

Commentary on 1 John 2:7

Verse: "Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning."

Introduction

This verse serves as a pivotal point in the epistle of 1 John, where the Apostle John addresses the nature of Christian love. It highlights the continuity of God's commandments and the expected behavior of believers. Commentators such as Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke provide rich insights into its theological implications and practical applications for the faith community.

Meaning of the Commandment

Matthew Henry notes that the "old commandment" refers prominently to the commandment to love one another, rooted in the teachings of Jesus. This is not a new commandment, as it has been part of the moral law from the beginning, as echoed in both the Old Testament (Leviticus 19:18) and the New Testament teachings of Christ. The significance here is an affirmation of continuity in God's ethical demands on His followers.

Albert Barnes emphasizes that this commandment should not be viewed as something outdated but as an enduring principle for believers. He argues that the essence of Christian living is summed up in love, a command that transcends cultures and ages. This old commandment is intended to remind believers of the foundational aspects of their faith journey, causing them to reflect upon their love for one another as a reflection of their love for God.

Adam Clarke adds that John's repetition of this command underscores its importance. It serves as a reminder that genuine Christianity is inseparable from love. Clarke points out that while the commandment may be "old," its application is ever relevant, urging believers to live it out actively in their communities.

The Significance of "From the Beginning"

The phrase "from the beginning" carries profound theological weight. It not only points to the commencement of the Law as given by God but also reflects back to Christ's own teachings and the early church's understanding of His message.

Matthew Henry elaborates on the idea that this phrase calls believers to remember their roots in faith and the foundational truths laid down by Christ. It invites introspection on how well believers have adhered to this commandment over time.

Albert Barnes stresses that "the beginning" signifies a starting point in the Christian faith characterized by revelation and transformative love. It indicates that the commandment of love is not a recent innovation but deeply ingrained in the tradition of faith and thus stands as a testament to its authenticity and authority.

Adam Clarke remarks that understanding commands "from the beginning" also means recognizing that these teachings have been consistently valid and must be treated as such—encouraging a lifestyle that reflects divine principles imbued with agape love.

Practical Applications for Believers

  • Living Out Love: The primary application of this verse for pastors and congregants alike is the call to actively live out the commandment to love. This love should not be mere sentiment but should manifest in tangible actions towards others.
  • Unity in Christ: By adhering to this commandment, believers can foster unity within the church community, transcending divisions based on race, class, or cultural differences, as love unites all under Christ.
  • Reflecting God's Character: Since this commandment stems from God's nature, embodying love reflects the character of God within believers and validates their testimony to the world.
  • Encouragement: Understanding this commandment as "old" can encourage believers not to seek novelty in their faith, but rather to embrace the timeless truths of God's Word.

Conclusion

1 John 2:7 serves as a critical reminder of the core faith principle that love is not merely a command but the essence of Jesus’ message. By grounding their lives in this "old commandment," believers are empowered to embody Christ-like love in a world yearning for genuine connection and peace. This verse challenges pastors, students, and scholars to continually explore the depth of this command in their theological reflections and ministry practices, ensuring that love remains at the forefront of the Christian experience.

1 John 2 (KJV) Verse Selection

1 John 2:1 1 John 2:2 1 John 2:3 1 John 2:4 1 John 2:5 1 John 2:6 1 John 2:7 1 John 2:8 1 John 2:9 1 John 2:10 1 John 2:11 1 John 2:12 1 John 2:13 1 John 2:14 1 John 2:15 1 John 2:16 1 John 2:17 1 John 2:18 1 John 2:19 1 John 2:20 1 John 2:21 1 John 2:22 1 John 2:23 1 John 2:24 1 John 2:25 1 John 2:26 1 John 2:27 1 John 2:28 1 John 2:29

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