1 John 5:18 meaning
In the concluding verses of 1 John, the Apostle John expresses a profound certainty regarding the believer's relationship with God. The transformative experience of being "born of God" bestows upon believers an inherent resistance to sin. This new birth grants them a divine nature that empowers them to guard themselves against falling into the traps set by evil. The assurance is that while they may still face temptations, the "wicked one" cannot ultimately harm their eternal standing in Christ. This reflects the intimate dynamic of the Christian faith, where the believer's identity as a child of God shapes their conduct and spiritual resilience.
John's assertion that genuine believers do not habitually sin speaks to a deeper reality: the presence of the divine within them alters their relationship with sin. The emphasis on the inability of the evil one to touch them underscores God's protective role. This sets a stark contrast between those who belong to God and the world that lies in wickedness, fostering a sense of spiritual confidence and stability among believers. As John writes, “We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not.” (1 John 5:18, NASB95)
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Amos 5:18-20 meaning. Amos again announces judgment on the unrepentant Israel. The people of God will experience the day of the LORD and it will be a day of darkness, not of light; a day of judgment, not of rejoicing.
- Leviticus 18:5 meaning. God’s law presents to us an ideal way to live in harmony with God and our fellow humans by defining what is right and wrong. As our creator, God knows this better than any human. In pronouncing His ways, He is making clear the path to our ultimate best interest.
- Luke 5:1-11 meaning. Jesus begins to recruit His disciples. As Jesus walks along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, He sees two sets of brothers who are fishermen: Simon and Andrew, and James and John. After He finishes His teaching, Jesus tells Simon to cast off from shore and let down his nets to fish. Simon obeys and they catch two boats full of fish. Simon recognizes that Jesus is the Christ and He tells him that from now on Simon will be catching men instead. After returning to shore, the four men leave everything and follow Jesus.