What does 1 John 2:28 mean?

Explanation

1 John 2:28 encourages believers to live in a manner that is consistent with their faith and in close relationship with Jesus Christ, often referred to here as “abiding in him.” It emphasizes the importance of being prepared for Christ’s return, a central theme of eschatology in Christian theology.

The term "little children" is a tender way the author, traditionally identified as the Apostle John, addresses his readers, indicating a caring and pastoral relationship.

The purpose of abiding in Him is so that believers may have confidence and not feel shame at the Second Coming of Christ.

The literal meaning focuses on the preparation for this event, while the deeper meaning suggests a continual, intimate relationship with Jesus that is transformative and leads to moral confidence.

Historical Context

1 John was written near the end of the first century AD, a time when the early Church was facing internal and external challenges.

False teachings, often gnostic in nature, were infiltrating communities.

Gnosticism held that spiritual knowledge was the key to salvation, which contrasted with the Christian doctrine of salvation through faith in Christ.

The epistle addresses these issues by emphasizing orthodox beliefs about the nature of Jesus and Christian conduct.

This verse is set within the broader context of ethical exhortation and a call to fidelity amidst these challenges.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse reveals several key themes:

• Eschatology: It refers to the Second Coming of Christ, a doctrinal cornerstone in Christian eschatology.
• Sanctification: Abiding in Him is interpreted as the process of growth in holiness and purity.
• Assurance of Salvation: The confidence spoken of here suggests that believers can have assurance of their salvation through their relationship with Christ.

Different theological viewpoints might emphasize various aspects of this verse. For example, Calvinists might focus on perseverance of the saints, whereas Arminians may highlight the conditional nature of abiding in Christ for maintaining confidence.

Practical Applications

The teachings of 1 John 2:28 can be applied in daily life through:

• Spiritual Discipline: Maintaining consistent spiritual habits, such as prayer and reading scripture, to cultivate a closer relationship with Christ.
• Ethical Living: Making choices that reflect Christian values in every sphere of life.
• Readiness: Always living as though Christ could return at any moment, instilling a sense of urgency in spreading the Gospel and living righteously.

Cross-References

• John 15:4 - "Abide in me, and I in you..."
• 2 Timothy 2:15 - "Study to shew thyself approved unto God..."
• Matthew 24:42-44 - "Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come."
• 1 Corinthians 1:8 - "Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Language Study

A key word in this verse is "abide" (Greek: μείνατε, meinate), which conveys the idea of remaining, dwelling, or staying in a certain state or relationship. It implies constancy and perseverance.

"Confidence" (Greek: παρρησίαν, parrēsian) indicates openness, boldness, or assurance, especially in the presence of someone of high status.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Ancient myths from various cultures often dealt with themes of preparation for the appearance or return of gods or divine beings. In the religious context, Judaism also has concepts of awaiting the Messiah.

However, Christian thought is unique in the belief that the Messiah has already come and will come again, emphasizing a personal, transformative relationship with the divine.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the verse does not directly intersect with scientific understandings as it addresses faith and eschatological beliefs. It speaks to moral and ethical behaviors rather than empirical inquiry.

commentaries

Commentators offer different interpretations of this verse:

• John Stott in his Tyndale New Testament Commentaries suggests that John's use of "abide" illustrates the continual dependence on Christ required for spiritual vitality and assurance.
• Matthew Henry emphasizes the joy of Christ’s appearance to those who are prepared, contrasting it with the fear experienced by those who are not.
• **I.

Howard Marshall** in his New International Commentary on the New Testament, remarks on the profound relational aspect of abiding in Christ and the intrinsic connection to confidence at His coming.