Home

Nazarene Commentary 2000©

21^st Century Paraphrase of the Hebrew Scriptures© –
21^st Century Version of the Christian Scriptures© [NCMM]

THE FIRST LETTER OF JOHN

CHAPTER TWO:
HOW TO KNOW ONE “KNOWS”

[“A ‘Knowing’ Child”]

1 John 2:1-6 – We Have Come to Know the Helper

1JN2:1 My little children, 36 I am writing 37 you this so that you may not commit a sin. 38 And every time anyone commits a sin, 39 we have a Helper 40 facing the Father, 41 a righteous person, Jesus Christ,

36

My little children: Or, RHM: My dear children. John uses the word “children” 14 times as an endearing diminutive sowing his love for the flock. Paraphrase verses 1-6, “I write you, my little children, so you will not sin. But when we do sin we have a Helper in the Father’s presence, a truly righteous one, Jesus Christ. He is the atonement not only for our sins, but also for the sins of the whole world. Now every time we keep obeying his commandments we will come to realize we have an intimate relationship with him. The individual who claims, ‘I have an intimate relationship with him,’ and yet fails to observe his commandments, this person is a liar and there is not a shred of truth in such one. However, the love of God is made complete in anyone who observes His Word. Because of such obedience we realize we remain in union with Him. Therefore, the person who says, ‘I remain in harmony with him,’ has the responsibility to live just as Jesus lived.” [NCMM Paraphrase]

37	I am writing: John now converts to the first person. The word “we” occurs 86 times. He uses the personal pronoun “I” 16 times.

38

You may not commit a sin: John possibly means: a) he is not writing to encourage sin; b) the type of sin is one of a habitual nature, that is, a practice, an ongoing sin. Sin ought to be rare among true disciples of the Nazarene. Or, MON: not continue in sin; PHM: to help you avoid sin. See the notes on 1 John 3:6. John knows all men are sinners and no doubt he agrees with Romans 3:23 and James 3:2. So, this is a special kind of sin – a habitual practice of lawlessness more closely associated with that kind mentioned in 1 John 5:16 – a sin incurring (second) death. Judging from 1 John 2:22, 23 this sin may include apostasy or a denial of Christ. Sin comes in two types: intentional and unintentional; and, two manifestations: actions that are wrong, and non-action.

39	Every time anyone commits a sin: Or, BAR: if anyone does sin. John recognizes sin will occur and he includes himself. However, the language suggests that no everyone sins all the time.

40

We have a Helper: The Greek is PARAKLETON. Or, KJV: advocate; TCN: we have one who can plead for us; GDS: intercede; BER: a counsel for defense; BAR: one to plead our cause. Despite his death, Messiah will “make intercession for sinners.” (Isaiah 53:12 JPS) Romans 8:34, “(Jesus) is on the right hand of The God, who also pleads for us.” Hebrews 7:25, “(Jesus) is always alive to intercede for them.” Jesus promised to send the Paraclete (John 14:26) as guide into all the truth but here it is the Son of God as mediatorial helper who intercedes or interposes in behalf of the Saints. (Numbers 21:7 and Isaiah 53:12) Hebrews 7:25 states our High Priest is always alive to be interceding for the Saints. Using this understanding the “sin” of verse 1 could not be apostasy or those sins which “incur death” for which Saints are not encouraged to pray, but those habitual sins which would finally lead to failure in the Christian course. His one sacrificial death has already canceled their debt of sin in the past and through their faith they attained perfection by justification. (Romans 5:1, 9 and Hebrews 9:9, 12, 14)

41	Facing the Father: The Greek is PROS TON PATERA. Compare John 1:1, PROS TON THEON. This later Greek phrase is exactly the same as found in the Jewish Greek Bible (LXX) at Exodus 4:16 and Moses’ relationship to Yehowah. [Compare notes on John 1:1.]

1JN2:2 and he is a propitiatory [sacrifice] regarding our sins, 42 but not only our sins 43 but also regarding the sins of the whole world-order of humanity. 44

42

Propitiatory [sacrifice] regarding our sins: The Greek is HILASMOS the root for “hilarity” (propitious) or that joyful happiness on God’s willingness to forgive and the sinner’s state of mind upon being forgiven. Or, PME: personal atonement; WMS: atoning sacrifice. See notes on 1 John 4:10 for the second use of the word. Romans 3:25, “God set Jesus forth as a propitiator offering by faith in his blood.” 1 Timothy 2:6, “… ransom for all.” Hebrews 2:17, “… to offer propitiatory sacrifice for the sins of the people.” (1 Corinthians 5:7; 2 Corinthians 5:21)

43

Our sins: He separates everyone into two groups: “our” and the “world.” He may refer to the “anointed” (1 John 2:27), the Saints and the Church. (Compare 1 John 2:28; 3:2) Colossians 1:14, 18, “… through whom we have our release by ransom, the forgiveness of our sins… the congregation.” (Isaiah 53:5)

44

Sins of the whole world-order of humanity: Or, PME: and for those of he rest of the world as well. John 1:29, “Look! the Lamb of God that takes away world’s sin!” John 3:16, “Thus The God loved the world so much that He gave his only-begotten Son so that everyone with deep conviction may not be destroyed but may have everlasting life.” John does not limit the coverage of the HILASMOS to just the Saints but makes it clear it is applied to “the whole world” dwelling under the power of the Wicked One. (See notes on 1 John 5:19 and compare 2 Corinthians 4:4; Revelation 11:15) The world-order of humankind is to be saved and not end. Though Satan remains “the god of this world” and the “ruler of the world” [2 Corinthians 4:4; John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11] at a future prophetic moment “the kingdom of the world” will become that of The God and His Son. [Revelation 11:15] The majority of humankind living at that time will be allowed to live on into that New Earth under the reign of Messiah and his Church throughout the Thousand Years. [Revelation 20:4, 6; Daniel 7:27] The death and resurrection of Christ provides a resurrection for all humanity, both the righteous and the unrighteous. [Acts 17:31; 24:15] Otherwise all would remain dead in the grave. [1 Corinthians 15:20-24]

1JN2:3 And every time we observe his commandments 45 by this we know we have known 46 him.

45

Observe his commandments: Or, TCN: by our laying his commands to heart; PME: obey God’s laws. Compare John 14:15, 21 and John 15:10. 1 John 3:23, “This is his commandment: that we believe in His Son Jesus Christ and be loving one another.” The word “commandment(s)” occurs 10 times in the Gospel of John, 14 times in 1 John and 4 times in 2 John. It always refers to the Christian commandments of faith and love. John 14:21, “The one who loves me is the one who keeps my commandments.” For details on these see the work Nazarene Commandments 2000©.

46

We know we have known: Or, TCN: learnt to know him; PME: we can be quite sure that we really know him. The Greek is GINOSKOMEN, EGNOKAMEN. The English “know” is a corruption of the Greek, GNO. This is among John’s theme words and may be a response to the Greek Gnostic philosophers. Their doctrines were working their way into the Church. John is going to explain how one really ‘knows’ God and the proof of this ‘knowing.’ It is not mere knowledge for here ‘knowing’ implies a close or intimate, experiential relationship, an intimate acquaintance. This relationship is that of a child to its father, while the relationship with Christ is that of a brother with another Brother who happens to be King. Compare Genesis 4:1 (EGNO) in the LXX. (John 17:3, 25, 26) This word-group “know” appears over 36 times in 1 John and indicates his confrontation with the Gnostics who believed in a mystic “knowing” similar to Zen. In 1 John “to know” has two forms: knowledge of facts and a knowing relationship. This “knowing” is no mere acknowledgment of certain facts about the existence of Christ but the “knowing” of a brotherly status or a friendly intimate relationship. John 15:14, “My friends are those who keep my commandments.” The relationship with Christ is a brotherhood. (Hebrews 2:11) The intimacy of this kind of “knowing” is shown in the LXX at Genesis 4:1, “and Adam EGNO his wife.” Even the Son of God grows and develops his “knowing” God the Father as John 17:25 shows. The Nazarene offers the hope of “knowing” the Father through the Son’s “revelation.” (See notes on Matthew 11:27 in Nazarene Commentary 2000©) There is a certain “intellectual capacity” to “know” the true God (See notes on 1 John 5:20.) but this is a “spiritual comprehension” which the Son “reveals” to child-like ones. [Matthew 11:27]

1JN2:4 The person who says, “I know him,” 47 and yet is not observing his commandments, is a liar, and there is no truth in this person. 48

47	I know him: That is: “I have a relationship with Christ,” or, “I have an intimate acquaintance with Christ.” Compare Hosea 8:2.

48

There is no truth in this person: John’s words are strong. He makes it clear one must know these commandments and then obey them. On the 60 “commandments” of Christ see the work Nazarene Commandments 2000© (Nazarene Commentary 2000©). Even now there are Christian groups who insist they may do as they will and still remain in good relationship with God and Christ. Some call themselves “carnal Christians”! It is impossible to claim love of the Nazarene and disobey his commandments. There are 60 “commands” of Christ in the Gospel of Matthew alone. A “disciple” is not a mere learner but an adherent who has become adept in the teachings of the Master and now teaches them to others. (Matthew 28:19) It is obvious a new disciple must first begin with a thorough knowledge of those commandments and teachings of the Son as paramount before attainment as an adept in knowing the Father and the Son. This involves a working knowledge of the Gospels as a prerequisite. There will always be those pseudo-delphians (false brothers) who were drawn to the Christian fellowship and then whose motives became twisted as a poisonous root began to grow. They are known by their fruitage which is manifest by: a) lovelessness or hatred; and, b) a disobedient liberal attitude toward the commandments of Christ. The Sermon on the Mount can be used to identify these “workers of lawlessness.” [Matthew 7:21-23] In Paul’s letters these fake disciples are often met. Note this in Philippians 1:15-18.

1JN2:5 But surely whoever is observing his word, truthfully the compassionate affection of The God is perfected. 49 By this we know we are in union with him. 50

49

The compassionate affection of The God is perfected: That is, love, benevolent empathy, charity, preference. Or, TCN: in that man the love of God has indeed reached its perfection; KNX: has indeed reached its full stature in him; BEC: God’s love has in you really accomplished what He wants; NOR: the love of God finds perfect expression in his heart. Again, this observation of the word of Christ involves his commandments which are of two orders: a) the positive – “Go”; and, b) the negative – “Stop” or “do not.” Since Christ’s word and commands generally revolve around love it follow that those who observe them will be loving and easily identified.

50	By this we know we are in union with him: Compare John 14:20 and John 17:21. Like Paul’s en the word “in” can have a range of meanings: in union with, in harmony with, incorporate, dwelling within.

1JN2:6 The person saying, “I remain in union with him,” 51 accordingly owes it to continue to walk just as he walked. 52

51

I remain in union with him: That is, “I remain in a harmonious relationship with him.” Or, GDS: this is the way we can be sure that we are in union with him; KJV: abideth in him; WEY: the man who professes to continue in him; GDS: whoever says I am always in union with him; KNX: one who claims to dwell in him. The phrase is an assertion or affirmation that the disciple remains walking in harmony with Christ and his teachings.

52

Owes it to continue to walk just as he walked: Or, NEB: binds himself to live as Christ himself lived; KNX: must needs live and move as he lived and moved; MOF: ought to be living as he lived Compare John 13:15, 1 Peter 2:21, Revelation 14:4. Christ’s life-style as a role model must be the pattern by which the Christian disciple molds life.

1 John 2:7-8 – Old and New Commandments

1JN2:7 I am not writing you a new commandment, 53 beloved, 54 an old commandment which you had from a beginning; 55 the old commandment is the word which you heard.

53

I am not writing you a new commandment: Compare John 13:34 and the notes on 2 John 5. These verses have the tone of one dictating to secretaries or copyists. He seems to repeat, contradict, and then clarify his point. The meaning may be well expressed: The New English Bible, reads: “Dear friends, I give you no new command. It is the old command that you always had before you; the old command is the message which you heard at the beginning. And yet again it is a new command that I am giving you-new in the sense that the darkness is passing and the real light already shines. Christ has made this true, and it is true in your own experience.” (See also NJB, WMS, PME) The “commandment” to love was indeed old. Leviticus 19:18, “You must love your neighbor as yourself.” What makes this old commandment something new is the way Jesus worded it to his apostles: John 13:34, “I am give you a new command: love each other JUST AS I LOVED YOU, and so you must love one another.” Paraphrase of verses 7, 8, “My beloved ones, this is not a new commandment I write you, but an old commandment you have known from the earliest days. This old commandment is the very message you have already heard. Let me explain it this way: I write you about a new commandment that resides in Jesus Christ and has also taken up residence in your hearts. This has happened because the darkness is being overcome as the real Light is already shining.” [NCMM Paraphrase]

54	Beloved: The Greek is AGAPETOI. Or, KJV: brethren.

55	You had from a beginning: Though these Saints had heard the OT command on love, it is more likely that this “old commandment” was that of John 13:34. This seems to be the meaning at 2 John 5, “… not a new command, but one which we had from a beginning: love each other.”

1JN2:8 Again, I am writing you a new commandment, which is really in him and in you, 56 because the darkness is passing away 57 and the true Light is already shining. 58

56

Which is really in him and in you: Or, TCN: which is manifest in Christ’s life and your own; BAR: in your own experience. Hebrews 10:16, “I will put my laws in their hearts, and in their minds I shall write them.” Romans 2:15, “The non-Jews are those who show how the law is to be inscribed on hearts: an inner conscience testifying within – pronouncing them guilty or not guilty.”

57	Darkness is passing away: Or, KJV: darkness is past; KNX: has passed away. Romans 13:12, “Night is almost over and the dawn is near.” 1 Thessalonians 5:5, “You are all sons of light and sons of day.”

58

True Light is already shining: Or, KNX: true light shines instead. Compare John 1:9 and John 8:12. 60 years has passed since John saw Jesus breathe his last. No one could have predicted the Christian revolution in the “Jesus movement.” John is to go and call this period, “the last hour.” See notes on 1 John 2:18.

1 John 2:9-11 – Only Brotherly Lovers in Light

1JN2:9 The person who says, 59 “I remain in the Light,” 60 and yet hates his brother 61 remains in darkness right now. 62

59

The person who says: As in 1 John 1:6, 8 John may have a person or group in mind. He may know this is actually what some are claiming. Paraphrase of verses 9-11, “The person who claims, ‘I am illumined!’ and yet lacks love for his fellow continues blind. The person who loves his fellow dwells in the Light and can never be offended or stumbled. However, the person who refuses to love his fellow is living in darkness, walking about like a blind person, having not the slightest idea where the path leads. This Darkness has blinded his eyes!” [NCMM Paraphrase]

60	I remain in the Light: Or, KNX: claims enlightenment. The words “know” and “light” are both associated with Gnosticism.

61

And yet hates his brother: “Hate” to John is not just an inner dislike for someone. He will go on to demonstrate this kind of “hate” as the failure to aid someone in need. Thus, hate here is the sin of omission. One cannot read this without thinking of Jesus’ parable of the sheep and goats. (Matthew 25:31-46) Titus 3:3, “… hating one another.”

62

Remains in darkness right now: Or, WEY: is still in darkness. Research the word darkness. There is an echo of the prophet here: Isaiah 59:9, 10, “We hoped for light, but, look! darkness. Instead of illumination we walked in constant obscurity. Like blind people we felt a wall and blindly we fumbled our way.” Paul comes close with – 1 Corinthians 13:2, “I am worthless if I do not love.”

1JN2:10 The person showing compassionate affection to a fellow member remains in the Light 63 and none can scandalize him; 64

63	Person showing compassionate affection to a fellow member remains in the Light: Or, KNX: lives in light. See notes on Ephesians 5:8. To John “love” is not merely an inner affection unexpressed. Rather, it is empathy manifest by positive action to help – compassionate affection, benevolent empathy.

64	None can scandalize him: That is, stumble by scandalous behavior. The Greek is SCANDALOU. See notes on this word in Matthew – scandal. Or, KJV: occasion for stumbling; GDS: no hindrance; MOF: no pitfall; KNX: no fear of stumbling haunts him.

1JN2:11 but the person hating a fellow member is in darkness and walks about blind, 65 and has no idea where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes.

65

The person hating a fellow member is in darkness and walks about blind: Or, PME: is shut off from the light and gropes his way in the dark; MON: is spending his life in the darkness. See John 12:35. The phrases here echo the Nazarene: John 11:9, 10, “Whenever anyone walks about in the day he does not stumble because he sees the Light of this world of humankind. However, whenever anyone walks about at night he will stumble because the Light is not in him.”

1 John 2:12-14 – Spiritual State of John’s Children

1JN2:12 Little children, I write you because you have been forgiven your sins 66 because of his name. 67

66

You have been forgiven your sins: See 1 John 1:9. Paraphrase of verses 12-14, “My darling little children, I am writing you because you have been forgiven your sins by reason of the name of Jesus. Fathers, I am writing you because you have enjoyed an intimate relationship with Jesus from the earliest. Youths, I am writing you because you have overcome the Devil. Little boys, I am writing you because you have come to know the Father. Fathers, I am writing you because you have had an intimate relationship with the One from the earliest. Youths, I am writing you because the Word of God residing within you is continues strong. You have overcome the Devil.” [NCMM Paraphrase]

67

Because of his name: That is, the authority of his name. Luke 24:47, “In his name repentance for forgiveness of sins will be proclaimed in all the world.” Acts 4:12, “There is not another name under heaven given to humans by which we must get saved.” Acts 10:43, “All the prophets testified regarding (Messiah) that all those who believe in him is forgiven their sins by his name.” Though John mentions the name Jesus 13 times he never uses YHWH, the Divine Name.

1JN2:13 Fathers, I write you because you have known the One from a beginning. 68 Young men, I write you because you have become victorious over the Wicked One. 69 Little boys, 70 I write you because you have known the Father. 71

68

Fathers, I write you because you have known the One from a beginning: That is, “were well acquainted with him originally.” This may mean from the beginning of the Gospel (Mark 1:1); or, the Word has existed from his own beginning. (John 1:1; Proverbs 8:22+. Or, KJV: from the beginning. – The article is lacking in Greek.) Some Trinitarian-biased have gone so far as: PME: who has always existed.

69

Young men, I write you because you have become victorious over the Wicked One: Or KJV: overcome; ASV: the evil one. See notes on 1 John 5:19. Regarding young men compare: Titus 2:6, “Also continue to encourage young men to think soberly and healthily.” Revelation 12:11, “The Saints conquered Satan because of the Lamb’s blood.” John uses the word “conquer” 6 times in this letter and 16 times in Revelation.

70	Little boys: The Greek here is PAIDIA and not the TEKNIA in verse 12. Paul also uses this form: Galatians 4:19, “… my little children.” (TEKNIA).

71	You have known the Father: That is, “well acquainted with.” Or, TCN: learnt to know. Compare the word group know in he Nazarene’s pray at John 17:3, 7, 8, 23, 25, 26. The word group “know” occurs 126 times in John’s Gospel and 39 times in 1 John.

1JN2:14 Fathers, 72 I write you because you have known the One from a beginning. Young men, 73 I write you because you are strong 74 and the Word of The God remains in you 75 and you have become victorious 76 over the Wicked One.

72	Fathers: John repeats himself as he does elsewhere. This may confirm a dictation but also a copyist so rigid he makes no attempt to edit what is unnecessary.

73	Young men: See notes on 2 John 2 and 3 John 3.

74	You are strong: Or, BER: you are vigorous. Ephesians 6:10, “Continue to grow strong in the Lord’s power and in the strength of his might.” 1 Corinthians 16:13, “Behave like men and grow to be strong.”

75

The Word of The God remains in you: Or, NOR: is treasured in your hearts; PME: you have a hold on God’s truth. 2 John 2, “The truth which continues to reside in us.” (3 John 3) Nothing could encourage the youth more to learn to study the Word of God from an early age. This is advice from an ancient man who has learned from his own experience. A study of Revelation reveals the enormous depth of how deep he delved into the Word of God.

76	Victorious: Or, WMS: conquered; NEB: mastered; KJV: overcome. It is most appropriate John includes this phrase with the previous one. A person who no longer yearns to read God’s Word has opened the door to he Devil.

1 John 2:15-17 – World-lovers Not of Father

1JN2:15 Do not continue loving the world-order of humanity, 77 nor the things in the world-order of humanity. 78 If anyone ever loves the world-order of humanity then the love of the Father is not in such a person. 79

77

Do not continue loving the world-order of humanity: That is, “have no affectionate longing for worldly things.” Or, WMS: stop loving the world; TCN: do not love the world. Romans 12:2, “Stop conforming to this time period.” Matthew 6:25, “Stop being overly concerned…” Paraphrase of verses 15-17, “Stop showing worldly concern for worldly things. Everyone who shows more concern for the world no longer has any love for the Father inside. That is because the entire world – fleshly passions, greedy eyes, and that pretentious display that comes with possessions – none of it has the Father as its source. The world with all of its greedy desires is passing away. However, the person who does the will of God will live forever in that future New Age.” [NCMM Paraphrase]

78

The things in the world-order of humanity: Or, TCN: or what the world can offer. This is about “things” – material and worldly things. See who controls the “world” at 1 John 5:19. The social world-order of humanity is characterized by certain thoughts, attitudes, inclinations, dispositions and conduct in opposition to The God. [James 4:4]

79

Loves the world-order of humanity then the love of the Father is not in such a person: That is, “anyone who has a preference for the world does not prefer God.” Or, WMS: persists in loving. Compare James 4:4, “Do you not realize being friends of the world-order of humanity means becoming an enemy of The God? Therefore, whoever chooses to be a friend of the world-order has become an enemy of The God.” Compare the way Jesus put it at Matthew 6:24 (see notes) – one cannot love both Riches and God at the same time.

1JN2:16 Because everything in the world-order of humanity 80 – the desire of the flesh 81 and the desire of the eyes 82 and the prideful display of possessions 83 of this life – it is not of the Father but it is from the world-order of humanity. 84

80

Everything in the world-order of humanity: Or, PME: the whole world system; BAR: everything that is characteristic of the world. Titus 2:12, “… to renounce worldly desires.” (COSMICAS EPI-THYMIAS) The Greek for “world” is KOSMOS from which the English words “cosmology” and “cosmetics” is drawn. This explains a bit about COSMOS: a certain arrangement, order, or organization. John uses KOSMOS more than any other inspired writer: The Gospel of John (79 times) and 1 John (23 times). The English word “world” is from ME = werld, AS = weoruld and means “age of man.” Some will find it interesting that “werewolf” also comes from this root. The world or cosmos may refer to a certain time period (much as the Greek AIONOS) such as the pre-flood world, the present world, and the world to come. Though the word is generally negative – for it describes mankind’s condition under kings, sin and death as well as the rulership of Satan, the “god of this world” – God sent His Son to save the world. Nowhere does the Bible describe the absolute or complete destruction of the world. Rather “the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our LORD and His Christ.” (Revelation 11:15) The rule of Satan will one day replaced by the rule of God’s Kingdom. (Revelation 11:15; 20:3, 4)

81

Desire of the flesh: Or, KJV: lust of the flesh; MOF: the things are physical nature craves; TCN: gratification of the earthly nature; NEB: panders to the appetites; TAY: the craze for sex. On this subject begin with Genesis 3:6 where the forbidden tree was “desirable to look upon.” The flesh – that is, the various fleshly senses (touch, smell, hearing, sight, etc.) begin in the mind [James 1:14, 15] and this “mind” can be corrupted or deceived from proper matters to those ungodly. [2 Corinthians 11:3] Therefore, what we think about most often can influence fleshly cravings.

82

Desire of the eyes: Or, MOF: our eyes crave for; RHM: the coveting of the eyes; NEB: entices the yes; TCN: gratification of the eye; TAY: the ambition to buy everything that appeals to you; BAR: the sight of what we do not have. Compare the first instance of this in Genesis 3:6. Also see notes on Matthew 5:28. Romans 13:14, “Do not keep making plans for future fleshly desires and greed.” (1 Peter 1:14) Proverbs 27:20, “The eyes are never satisfied.” We covet what we see, particular that which we see regularly and thus the basis of the great commandment, “You should not covet.” The modern world more than at any other time in human history is deluged with images for the eyes to behold. The commercial world creates attractive things for the eyes to behold in order to sell these products.

83

Prideful display of possessions: Or, KJV: the pride of life; MOF: proud display of life RHM: vain grandeur of life; TCN: the pretentious life; NEB: all the glamour of this life; TAY: the pride that comes from wealth and importance. Ecclesiastes 5:11, “When material possessions are abundant… what is the advantage to their owners other than just looking at them?” Paul gives orders at 1 Timothy 6:17, “Command those rich in this time period not to be arrogant.” The Greek word used here for “prideful display” is ALAZONIA and also occurs at James 4:13-16 where it occurs in the context of making business plans without considering the will of God. Interestingly one Spanish translation renders this phrase EXIBICION OSTENTOSA (or, “ostentatious exhibition”). There are few very rich people who do not want in some manner to display their wealth or social position. The drive behind this is egotism.

84	It is not of the Father but it is from the world-order of humanity: Or, GDS: these do not come from the Father, but to the world. See notes on Ephesians 2:2 in Nazarene Commentary 2000©.

1JN2:17 For the world-order of humanity is going its way and its desire with it, 85 but the person doing the will of The God 86 will remain throughout that new Age to come. 87

85	World-order of humanity is going its way and its desire with it: Or, KJV: the world passeth away; PME: will one day disappear. 1 Corinthians 7:31, “… those who can use the world as those not using it completely, for the world stage is changing.”

86

Person doing the will of The God: Or, WMS: whoever perseveres in doing God’s will. See notes on Matthew 7:21. 1 Peter 4:2, “Live the rest of your life… doing God’s will.” God’s will may be reduced to two primary matters: a] an active conviction characterized by actions; and, b] loving empathy that seeks the highest good of others, including enemies.

87

Will remain throughout that new Age to come: Or, KJV: abideth for ever; WMS: lives on forever. That is, “into that future period of time.” John does not mean a continuation of life immediately upon death. For details on the after-life see the work Where Are the Dead? in Nazarene Commentary 2000©. John 6:40, “Everyone who sees the Son and believes deeply in him will receive everlasting life. On the Last Day I will resurrect them.”

1 John 2:18-21 – Antichrists in the Last Hour

1JN2:18 Little boys 88, it is the last hour 89 and in accordance with what you heard 90 that antichrist is coming, 91 and now many antichrists have appeared; 92 from this we know that it is the last hour. 93

88

Little boys: Generally PAIDIA is rendered “little children” though it is literally “little boys.” Paraphrase of verses 18-21, “Young spiritual children, it is the final hour. As you have heard already, the antichrist is coming. Already many antichrists have materialized. It is from this we know it is the final hour. These antichrists abandoned us because they were never really part of us. If they really had been part of us they would have stayed with us. This is so in order to manifest these antichrists and make it clear they were never part of us. All of you who have an anointing from the Holy One have an intimate relationship with Him. I am not writing you because you do not know the Truth but because you do know it and also that no lie springs from the Truth.” [NCMM Paraphrase]

89

It is the last hour: Or, KJV: it is the last time; TCN: these are the last days; NOR: it is the final age of the world. There are a variety of views. One is the following: Jesus foretold the fermenting of his realm and the growing of two groups: sons of the kingdom and sons of the Devil. He said this would really get underway “while men were sleeping.” (Matthew chapter 13) If these sleeping men be view as the apostles and their deaths, then given the ancient age of John, it is indeed “the last hour” before he is gone and no longer able to be part of that “restraining authority” in 2 Thessalonians 2:1-10. Like Paul, John says, “the antichrists are already at work.” (2 Thessalonians 2:7; 1 John 2:18)

90

With what you heard: TCN: you were told. Where would they have heard this about the antichrists? Such a word is not used elsewhere. Jesus does predict PSEUDOCHRISTOI. (Matthew 24:24) It is possible these antichrists are those John’s audience would have read about in the inspired epistles: Acts 20:29, “I am aware that after my departure burdensome wolves will come into your fellowship and not spare the flock.” 2 Thessalonians 2:3, “(The Day of the Lord) will not arrive until the apostasy occurs first and the lawless man is revealed – the son of destruction.” 1 Timothy 4:1, “But, the (prophetic) Pneuma states clearly that in the later seasons some will apostatize from the faith, minding devious spirits and the demonic doctrines.” 2 Timothy 4:3, “For there will come a season when the will not hold to healthy doctrine. In accordance with their own wishes they will pile up their own teachers to tickle their ears.” 2 Peter 2:1, “There will also be false teachers among you.”

91

Antichrist is coming: The Greek is ANTI-CHRISTOS and means against-christ or hostile-to-christ. There are many views and the most well-known is the prediction of the Antichrist as some future ruler opposed to the Church. Much is often made of certain parts of Revelation as applying to such an Antichrist though no such word occurs in the Apocalypse. However, John uses the plural antichrist (or, antichrists) and states that they already existed in his own time. (1 John 2:18) This seems to indicate that these antichrists are related to those false prophets and false teachers mentioned above. [And later in 1 John 4:1.] As a group or class perhaps they can all be referred to as the Antichrist even as Paul seems to do with “the Man of Iniquity” at 2 Thessalonians 2:1-10. The antichrists are later identified as those who deny Jesus is the Messiah and refuse to believe that Jesus as the Son of God came in the flesh. Compare 1 John 2:22; 4:2, 3; 2 John 7; John 8:42, 48, 49; 9:22.

92

Now many antichrists have appeared: 60 years had passed since Jesus gave his parable of the wheat and tares predicting that after his apostles fell asleep in death his field would contain both sons of the kingdom and sons of the Devil. Most of the inspired epistles describe an early development to these sectarian problems. (Romans 16:17; 1 Corinthians 11:19; 2 Timothy 1:15; 2 Timothy 2:16, 17; 2 Timothy 3:6, 8, 9; Jude 4.) Historical fact demonstrates within two centuries there were hundreds of different heresies or sects in the matrix of the Christian Church.

93	We know that it is the last hour: The term “last hour” usually indicates a brief period of time. Compare John 2:4; 4:21-23; 5:25, 28; 7:30; 8:20; 12:23, 27. It is that period of time after the apostles “were sleeping.” [Matthew 13:25]

1JN2:19 They left us but they were never of us. 94 For if they were really of us they would have remained with us. 95 Thus it is manifest they were never of us. 96

94

They left us but they were never of us: Or, GDS: they have gone out from our number, but they did not really belong to our company; KNX: they came out of our company, but they never belonged to our company. Acts 20:30, “From your own circle men will arise speaking distortions to get disciples to follow them.” In Paul’s epistle to the Philippians – written 30 years before 1 John – problems already exist: Philippians 1:15-18, “Some are really proclaiming the Messiah in jealousy and competition… announcing the Messiah not with love… but being antagonistic, with an unclean purpose… in a fabrication… Beware of the dogs who are workers of evil.” (Philippians 3:2)

95	If they were really of us they would have remained with us: Or, KNX: they would have persevered at our side; BEC: would have stayed with us; MOF: they would have remained with us. (Acts 20:30)

96

It is manifest they were never of us: Or, TCN: not any of them, belong to us. 1 Corinthians 11:18,19, “Let me begin by saying that when you meet together as a whole assembly I am aware that schisms are in your midst. Part of me wants to believe this. Now it is a necessity that heresies must exist in your midst so that those approved among you might be revealed.” In affect Paul is saying the same thing as John.

1JN2:20 All of you have an anointing 97 from the Holy One. 98 You all have known [him]. 99

97

You have an anointing: Or, KJV: unction. The Greek is CHRISTMA and may be rendered “christened.” The Hebrew is the root of Messiah or Christian. “Unction” is a Latin based word from Jerome. 2 Corinthians 1:21, “Now The God is the one who has anointed us and pledges that all of us are incorporated into Christ.” See notes on 1 John 2:27. The word group anoint occurs over 175 times in the Bible. Jesus himself says, “YHWH (Adonay) has anointed me.” (Luke 4:16) Anointing occurs at appointments or commissions of priests, kings, and prophets. Compare Judges 9:8, 15; 1 Samuel 9:16; 2 Samuel 19:10; Leviticus 8:12; Psalm 133:2; 1 Kings 19:15, 16. Each Christian (from CHRISMA) is anointed or appointed to a spiritual and royal priesthood. (1 Peter 2:5; Revelation 5:10)

98	The Holy One: God according to 2 Corinthians 1:23. The designation occurs over four dozen times mostly in the prophet Isaiah and virtually always applying to Yehowah.

99

You all have known [him]: KJV: ye know all things; BEC: and now all of you know. Known in the sense of sharing an intimate relationship. Psalm 89:7, “The God is to be reverenced in the confidential assembly of His Saints.” Knowing or knowledge of Him includes also knowing His Truth as the next phrase shows.

1JN2:21 I did not write you because you have not known the truth, 100 but because you have known the truth, and that every lie is not from the truth. 101

100	Known the truth: John 17:17, “Your Word is Truth.” One cannot know God without knowing “the Truth.” Jesus described himself as “the Truth” but he also called God’s Word “the Truth.” [John 17:17]

101

Every lie is not from the truth: Or, WEY: no lie comes from the truth; BEC: because that which is false has nothing in common with that which is true. John 8:44, “(Satan) was not steadfast in Truth because there is no truth in him. Satan speaks lies because that is his character because he is the father of lying.”

1 John 2:22-25 – How to Know Antichrists

1JN2:22 Who is the liar 102 if not the person who denies Jesus is the Christ? 103 The person who denies the Father and the Son is the antichrist. 104

102

Who is the liar: Or, MOF: who is the real liar; WMS: who is the notorious liar. Paraphrase of verses 22-25, “Who is the prevaricator if it is not the individual who disowns Jesus as the Messiah? The individual who disowns the Father and the Son is the antichrist. Every person who disowns the Son has no relationship with the Father. Every person acknowledging the Son also has a relationship with the Father. Stay with those truths you first heard and then you will abide in both the Father and the Son. The life everlasting is the promise He covenanted with us.” [NCMM Paraphrase]

103

The person who denies Jesus is the Christ: 1 John 4:3, “God is not the source of any ‘inspiration’ not confessing Jesus.” 2 John 7, “Many impostors left for the world. These are the impostors and antichrists: those who do not confess Jesus Christ came in the flesh.” The Gnostics were a sect that combined Egyptian, Greek, Jewish and Christian thought. They believe all matter and all flesh to be evil. Thus, it would be impossible for Jesus to have been manifest in the flesh unless it was as a phantasm or disembodied spirit.

104	Denies the Father and the Son is the antichrist: GDS: he is the real Antichrist – the man who disowns the Father and the Son. Luke 12:9, “Whoever denies me publicly will be denied before God’s angels.”

1JN2:23 Everyone denying the Son neither has the Father; 105 the person confessing the Son also has the Father. 106

105	Everyone denying the Son neither has the Father: Or, AMP: no one who habitually denies the Son has the Father. See notes on 2 John 9 where the “doctrine of Christ” is involved in this matter. It should be noted in this language John does not include the Holy Spirit.

106	The person confessing the Son also has the Father: KJV: acknowledgeth. Romans 10:10 is an important text to pray over.

1JN2:24 Let that which you originally heard 107 remain in you and then you remain in the Father and in the Son. 108

107

That which you originally heard: Or, GDS: keep what you have heard from the beginning in your hearts; KNX: enough for you that the message which was first brought you should dwell in you; PME: for yourselves I beg you to stick to the original teaching. John 14:23, “Any person who loves me will keep my word and then my Father will also love that person. We will both then arrive and dwell within.”

108	Then you remain in the Father and in the Son: Note that in these dualities the “holy spirit” is missing. Indeed, the term “holy spirit” never appears in 1 John. One wonders – if John had been a Trinitarian – why he omits the Spirit.

1JN2:25 And the everlasting life is the promise He pledged to us. 109

109	Everlasting life is the promise He pledged to us: John uses the phrase “everlasting life” more than all others. In the Gospel of John, 16 times. See notes on 1 John 1:12; 3:15; 5:11.

1 John 2:26-29 – Anointed Need No Antichrist Teachers

1JN2:26 I write these things to you concerning those who try to cause you to err. 110

110

Concerning those who try to cause you to err: The Greek is PLANONYON. Or, KJV: concerning them that seduce you; ASV: them that would lead you astray; TCN: who are trying to mislead you. Mark 13:22, “For pseudo-anointed and pseudo-prophets will appear and produce signs and miracles to cause even the unthinkable – the failure of the Elect.” John may have a certain individual in mind. See the notes on 3 John 10. It may include women: Revelation 2:20, “She teaches and causes my servants to fail.” Paraphrase of verses 26-29, “I have written these matters to you because of those who try to deceive you. You received an anointing from God that continues within you. Therefore, you have no obligation to have any of these deceivers as your teachers. The reason for this is that God’s anointing is teaching you every truth and not a single falsehood. And so as you were taught by this anointing, continue to abide within the Father. Now, little children, continue to abide in (Jesus) so when the time comes for him to be made visible we all might speak openly and freely at his Arrival and not experience embarrassment while standing before him. If you realize that God is righteous you will also realize that those God-born continue in righteousness.” [NCMM Paraphrase]

1JN2:27 You have the anointing which you received 111 from Him and it remains in you, 112 so you have no need for [any of these] to be teaching you 113 because His anointing is teaching you about everything true 114 and not one lie, and just as the anointing taught you, remain in Him. 115

111

You have the anointing which you received: Or, KJV: the anointed which ye have received of him abideth in you. (2 Corinthians 1:20; 1 John 2:20) Research anoint. Such an anointing includes the holy Pneuma and with it comes an appointment or commission. Jesus said this anointing spirit upon the apostles, “… will point the way into all the truth.” (John 16:13) The Greek CHRISMA is the root of Christian and in the fullest since it is the anointed who are “Christians.”

112	It remains in you: The suggestion is that such an anointing may be removed.

113

You have no need for [any of these] to be teaching you: Or, KJV: and ye need not that any man teach you; AMP: then you have no need that anyone should instruct you. Compare Jeremiah 31:34, “And they will no longer teach their friends or brethren with the words, ‘Know Yehowah!’ For everyone of them will know me, from the least to the greatest among them.” [NCMM] Some make this read: “You have no need of anyone teaching you.” They argue each Christian needs no teacher but by the Spirit learn from the Bible what is needful for them. Though containing some truth, the view contradicts Jesus and Paul completely. Matthew 28:19 shows that Jesus commissioned his apostles to teach all nations. Paul several times shows the need for qualified teachers. Research the word group teach or teacher in Paul’s epistles. Compare: Acts 2:42, “(The Christians) remained in their devotions to the apostles’ teachings.” Romans 12:7, “Let the teacher continue at his teaching.” 1 Corinthians 4:17, “I teach in every congregation.” 1 Corinthians 12:29, “Are all teachers?” 1 Corinthians 14:26 “… another man teaches.” Galatians 6:6, “In addition everyone who is taught the Word should share his blessings with the teacher.” Ephesians 4:11, “… some as pastors and teachers.” Colossians 3:16, “Continue to teach.” 2 Timothy 2:2, “… these things entrust to trustworthy men who, thus, competent enough to teach others.” Hebrews 5:12, “Really, though you should be teachers yourselves by now you will need a teacher to teach you the first principles about divine revelations.” James 3:1, “Very few of you should ever become teachers.” See the Biblical Article God’s Spirit and You.

114

Because His anointing is teaching you about everything true: Or, TCN: since his consecration of you teaches you about everything; NEB: no illusion. Read John 14:26; 16:13; 17:20. See the notes on 1 John 2:24 which encourage these Christians to remain in the original teachings and thus need no new and deceitful teachers. Those who claim to be guided by the anointing spirit will teach only the truth. These could not possibly be those described at 1 Timothy 4:1-3.

115	Remain in Him: Or, GDS: keep in union with him just as it has taught you to do.

1JN2:28 And now, little children, continue to remain in him so that whenever he is made visible 116 we might be free-spoken in his Presence 117 and not be humiliated [Daniel 12:2] when in front of him. 118

116

So that whenever he is made visible: Or, KJV: when he shall appear; IB: revealed; NWT: manifest; BAS: revelation. The Greek is PHANEROTHE. [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #5319 = “to make manifest or visible.” (from 5318 = apparent, manifest; from 5316 = come to view, appear)] Colossians 3:4, “When the Messiah… becomes visible, then you will be revealed with him in glory.” 1 Timothy 6:14, “… until the Appearing of our Master Jesus Christ.” Matthew 24:30, “… and then all the tribes of the earth… will visually see [OPSONTAI] the Son of Man arriving upon the clouds of the sky.” Hebrew 9:27, “… he will be made visible.” (KIT)

117

Free-spoken in his Presence: Or, KJV: have confidence; ASV: boldness; MON: cheerful confidence; WMS: unshaken confidence. The Greek is EN TE PAROUSIA (in his presence). Compare the same phrase at 1 Corinthians 15:23. 1 John 4:17, “We may be able to speak freely and unashamed in the day of judgment.” Compare 2 Corinthians 5:10.

118

Not be humiliated when in front of him: Or, KJV: ashamed; AF: shrink with shame; RHM: and not be shamed away from him by his presence; TCN: we may not be ashamed to meet him at his coming. Compare John’s AISCHYNTHOMEN with Daniel’s AISCHYNEN. (Daniel 12:2; John 5:29) The Parousia (Presence/Arrival) is a day of judgment in the presence of Christ. An example of such humiliation is Matthew 7:21-23.

1JN2:29 If you know that he is righteous 119 you also know that everyone who continues in this righteousness has originated from the Father. 120

119	He is righteous: 1 John 3:7, “… just as that one is righteous.” Hebrews 1:9, “You loved righteousness and hated lawlessness.”

120

Everyone who continues in this righteousness has originated from the Father: Or, KJV: is born of Him; WEY: is a child of His; MON: born of Him; BER: his offspring. 1 Peter 1:23, “You received a regeneration by incorruptible sperm by means of the enduring word of the living God.” (1 John 4:7) Compare the Nazarene at John 3:3-5.