What does 1 John 5:17 mean?

All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death. 1 John 5:17

Explanation

1 John 5:17 touches on the subject of sin and distinguishes between sins that lead to spiritual death and those that do not. While it emphasizes that all unrighteous actions are considered sin, it also suggests that not every sin is fatal in the context of one’s relationship with God. In simpler terms, the passage indicates there are degrees or types of sin—with some having more severe spiritual consequences than others. The phrase ‘sin not unto death’ reflects the belief that some sins do not sever the relationship between the believer and God, whereas other sins, often categorized as mortal or deadly sins, threaten to cut off the believer from God’s saving grace.

Historical Context

This verse is part of the first epistle of John, a letter traditionally attributed to John the Apostle. The letter was likely written in the late first or early second century A.D. and is believed to have been directed to a group of Christians who were combating heretical teachings and divisions within the church. This epistle reinforces the idea of God as light and love, encouraging believers to live in the truth and love one another. It also addresses the nature of sin and forgiveness, which is consistent with the theological conflicts and moral concerns of the early Christian church.

Theological Insights

Theologically, 1 John 5:17 has been interpreted in several ways. Some Christian denominations view it as a reference to the distinction between venial and mortal sins. Venial sins are relatively minor and do not break one’s relationship with God, while mortal sins are grave transgressions that, if not repented, can lead to spiritual death. Other interpretations do not make such a rigid distinction but suggest that the ‘sin not unto death’ refers to sins that are covered by Christ’s atoning sacrifice for those who believe and repent. This verse also touches on the mercy and forgiveness available through Jesus, implying that sin, while serious, can be overcome through faith and adherence to Christian teachings.

Practical Applications

In day-to-day life, this verse encourages Christians to recognize the seriousness of sin but also to maintain hope and seek forgiveness through Christ. It reminds believers not to judge others harshly, as everyone is subject to sinning, and emphasizes the importance of intercessory prayer, as it implies the need to pray for those who have committed a ‘sin not unto death.’ It also challenges individuals to examine their actions and attitudes, to differentiate between what is righteous and unrighteous, and to strive to follow God’s commandments.

Cross-References

• Romans 6:23 – “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
• James 5:16 – “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”
• 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 – “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”

Language Study

The original Greek word translated as “unrighteousness” is “ἀδικία” (adikia), which can mean injustice, wrongfulness of character, or an act of unrighteousness. The term “sin” translates from “ἁμαρτία” (hamartia), signifying a missing of the mark, error, or fault. The phrase “not unto death” is from “μὴ πρὸς θάνατον” (mē pros thanaton), with “θάνατος” (thanatos) directly translating to “death.” The phrase could be interpreted to mean that the sin is not leading towards spiritual death, thereby offering hope for redemption and forgiveness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison to other religious interpretations of sin, many cultures and religions also recognize varying degrees of wrongdoing. For instance, in Judaism, there is a distinction between intentional sins and those committed inadvertently. Similarly, in Islam, there are major sins (Kabair) that require specific repentance and minor sins (Sagha’ir) that can be forgiven through good deeds. Hinduism and Buddhism also talk about actions that generate negative karma and those that contribute to positive karma, with different spiritual consequences associated with each.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives on sin are not directly applicable since sin relates to moral and theological concepts rather than empirical evidence. However, some scientific fields such as psychology and sociology study human behavior and can provide insights into why people commit certain ‘unrighteous’ actions and how these behaviors affect individuals and society. The concept of sin could also intersect with studies on guilt, morality, and conscience, which are important in understanding human ethical decision-making.

Commentaries

Various biblical commentators have offered interpretations of 1 John 5:17. For example, Matthew Henry’s commentary emphasizes the duty of prayer that arises from this verse, urging Christians to pray for those whose sins are not mortal. John Wesley notes that while indeed there is a sin leading to death (spiritual death), in the case of other sins, we should pray to God for their forgiveness. The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges suggests that sinning ‘not unto death’ may also include those who sin out of ignorance. These commentaries showcase the diversity of thought within Christianity regarding the nature of sin and its consequences.