1 John 4:9
New International Version
This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.

New Living Translation
God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him.

English Standard Version
In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him.

Berean Standard Bible
This is how God’s love was revealed among us: God sent His one and only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him.

Berean Literal Bible
In this the love of God has been revealed among us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, so that we might live through Him.

King James Bible
In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.

New King James Version
In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.

New American Standard Bible
By this the love of God was revealed in us, that God has sent His only Son into the world so that we may live through Him.

NASB 1995
By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him.

NASB 1977
By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him.

Legacy Standard Bible
By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him.

Amplified Bible
By this the love of God was displayed in us, in that God has sent His [One and] only begotten Son [the One who is truly unique, the only One of His kind] into the world so that we might live through Him.

Christian Standard Bible
God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his one and only Son into the world so that we might live through him.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent His One and Only Son into the world so that we might live through Him.

American Standard Version
Herein was the love of God manifested in us, that God hath sent his only begotten Son into the world that we might live through him.

Contemporary English Version
God showed his love for us when he sent his only Son into the world to give us life.

English Revised Version
Herein was the love of God manifested in us, that God hath sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
God has shown us his love by sending his only Son into the world so that we could have life through him.

Good News Translation
And God showed his love for us by sending his only Son into the world, so that we might have life through him.

International Standard Version
This is how God's love was revealed among us: God sent his unique Son into the world so that we might live through him.

Majority Standard Bible
This is how God’s love was revealed among us: God sent His one and only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him.

NET Bible
By this the love of God is revealed in us: that God has sent his one and only Son into the world so that we may live through him.

New Heart English Bible
By this God's love was revealed in us, that God has sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.

Webster's Bible Translation
In this was manifested the love of God towards us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.

Weymouth New Testament
God's love for us has been manifested in that He has sent His only Son into the world so that we may have Life through Him.

World English Bible
By this God’s love was revealed in us, that God has sent his only born Son into the world that we might live through him.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
In this was revealed the love of God in us, because God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we may live through Him;

Berean Literal Bible
In this the love of God has been revealed among us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, so that we might live through Him.

Young's Literal Translation
In this was manifested the love of God in us, because His Son -- the only begotten -- hath God sent to the world, that we may live through him;

Smith's Literal Translation
In this was the love of God manifested in us, that God has sent his only born Son into the world, that we might live by him.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
By this hath the charity of God appeared towards us, because God hath sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we may live by him.

Catholic Public Domain Version
The love of God was made apparent to us in this way: that God sent his only-begotten Son into the world, so that we might live through him.

New American Bible
In this way the love of God was revealed to us: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might have life through him.

New Revised Standard Version
God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
By this was the love of God toward us made known, for God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
In this the love of God is known to us: for God sent his only Son to the world so that it shall live by him.
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God sent his only-begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.

Godbey New Testament
In this the divine love of God has been made manifest in us, because God has sent his only begotten Son into the world that we may live through him.

Haweis New Testament
By this was the love of God manifested to us, that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might have life by him.

Mace New Testament
by this was the love of God displayed towards us, in that God sent his only begotten son into the world, that we might live thro' him.

Weymouth New Testament
God's love for us has been manifested in that He has sent His only Son into the world so that we may have Life through Him.

Worrell New Testament
In this was manifested the love of God in us, that God hath sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we may live through Him.

Worsley New Testament
In this was the love of God manifested towards us, that God sent his only-begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Love Comes from God
8Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 9This is how God’s love was revealed among us: God sent His one and only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him. 10And love consists in this: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as the atoning sacrifice for our sins.…

Cross References
John 3:16
For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Romans 5:8
But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

John 1:14
The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Galatians 4:4-5
But when the time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, / to redeem those under the law, that we might receive our adoption as sons.

John 1:18
No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is Himself God and is at the Father’s side, has made Him known.

1 John 3:16
By this we know what love is: Jesus laid down His life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.

John 17:3
Now this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.

Romans 8:32
He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also, along with Him, freely give us all things?

John 10:10
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness.

Ephesians 2:4-5
But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, / made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our trespasses. It is by grace you have been saved!

Titus 3:4-5
But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, / He saved us, not by the righteous deeds we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.

Hebrews 1:1-2
On many past occasions and in many different ways, God spoke to our fathers through the prophets. / But in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, and through whom He made the universe.

1 Peter 1:20-21
He was known before the foundation of the world, but was revealed in the last times for your sake. / Through Him you believe in God, who raised Him from the dead and glorified Him; and so your faith and hope are in God.

Isaiah 9:6
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 53:10
Yet it was the LORD’s will to crush Him and to cause Him to suffer; and when His soul is made a guilt offering, He will see His offspring, He will prolong His days, and the good pleasure of the LORD will prosper in His hand.


Treasury of Scripture

In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.

was.

1 John 3:16
Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.

John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Romans 5:8-10
But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us…

God sent.

1 John 4:10
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

Luke 4:18
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,

John 5:23
That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.

only.

Psalm 2:7
I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.

Mark 12:6
Having yet therefore one son, his wellbeloved, he sent him also last unto them, saying, They will reverence my son.

John 1:14-18
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth…

we.

1 John 5:11
And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.

John 6:51,57
I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world…

John 10:10,28-30
The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly…

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1 John 4
1. He warns them not to believe all who boast of the Spirit;
7. and exhorts to brotherly love.














This is how
The phrase "This is how" introduces a demonstration or manifestation of something significant. In the context of 1 John 4:9, it sets the stage for understanding the tangible expression of God's love. The Greek word used here, "ἐν τούτῳ" (en toutō), emphasizes the manner or means by which something is made known. It invites the reader to pay attention to the subsequent explanation of divine love, which is not abstract but concrete and observable.

God’s love
The term "God’s love" refers to the agape love of God, which is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional. In Greek, "ἀγάπη" (agapē) is the highest form of love, distinct from human emotions or affections. This love is central to the Christian faith, as it reflects God's nature and His relationship with humanity. Historically, the concept of divine love was revolutionary in the Greco-Roman world, where gods were often seen as distant or capricious. The Christian understanding of God's love as personal and redemptive was transformative.

was revealed
The phrase "was revealed" comes from the Greek word "φανερόω" (phaneroō), meaning to make visible or manifest. This implies that God's love, though always present, became evident in a new and unmistakable way. The revelation of God's love is not merely a theological concept but an event in history, specifically through the incarnation of Jesus Christ. This revelation is foundational to the Christian message, as it shows that God actively engages with His creation.

among us
"Among us" indicates the communal and relational aspect of God's revelation. The Greek phrase "ἐν ἡμῖν" (en hēmin) suggests that this revelation is not distant or abstract but occurs within the human experience. It underscores the idea that God's love is not just for individuals but for the community of believers. Historically, this reflects the early Christian understanding of the church as a living body where God's presence is experienced collectively.

God sent
The action "God sent" highlights the initiative and purpose of God in the salvation narrative. The Greek word "ἀπέστειλεν" (apesteilen) conveys the idea of sending forth with authority and mission. This sending is a deliberate act of love, demonstrating God's proactive role in reaching out to humanity. It echoes the Old Testament theme of God sending prophets and messengers, culminating in the sending of His Son.

His one and only Son
The phrase "His one and only Son" emphasizes the uniqueness and preciousness of Jesus Christ. The Greek term "μονογενῆ" (monogenē) is often translated as "only begotten," signifying the singular and unparalleled relationship between the Father and the Son. This highlights the depth of God's love, as He did not withhold His most cherished, but gave Him for the sake of humanity. It reflects the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the centrality of Christ in God's redemptive plan.

into the world
"Into the world" signifies the incarnation, where the divine entered the human realm. The Greek "εἰς τὸν κόσμον" (eis ton kosmon) indicates a movement from the heavenly to the earthly, underscoring the humility and condescension of Christ. This act of entering the world is pivotal, as it bridges the gap between God and humanity, allowing for reconciliation and relationship. It also challenges believers to engage with the world in a manner that reflects Christ's mission.

so that we might live
The purpose clause "so that we might live" reveals the intended outcome of God's sending of His Son. The Greek "ἵνα ζήσωμεν" (hina zēsōmen) suggests not just physical life but a new, spiritual life characterized by relationship with God. This life is abundant and eternal, contrasting with the death and separation caused by sin. It is a call to experience the fullness of life that Jesus offers, rooted in His love and sacrifice.

through Him
The phrase "through Him" indicates the means by which this new life is possible. The Greek "δι’ αὐτοῦ" (di’ autou) emphasizes that Jesus is the mediator and conduit of divine life. It affirms the exclusivity of Christ as the way to the Father, a central tenet of Christian faith. This underscores the necessity of faith in Jesus for salvation and the transformative power of His presence in the believer's life.

Verse 9. - The verse is very similar to chapter 1 John 3:16, "in this" referring to what follows, and introducing a concrete and crucial example of love. Beware of the inadequate and misleading rendering "towards us" for ἐν ἡμῖν. It means in us, and belongs to "manifested," as John 9:3 plainly shows. We must not connect together "the love of God in us," still less "the love of God toward us," as one idea. "In us" means "in our case," and the whole may be paraphrased: "A transcendent manifestation of the love of God has been made in regard to us, in that he hath sent," etc. The verse might serve as a summary of St. John's Gospel. The word μονογενής as applied to Christ is peculiar to St. John; it and ζήσωμεν are the key-words of the passage. "This is love indeed; it is his only Son whom he has sent, and he has sent him to give us life." Note the double article - "his Son, yes, his Only Begotten."

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
This is how
Ἐν (En)
Preposition
Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.

God’s
Θεοῦ (Theou)
Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 2316: A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.

love
ἀγάπη (agapē)
Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular
Strong's 26: From agapao; love, i.e. Affection or benevolence; specially a love-feast.

was revealed
ἐφανερώθη (ephanerōthē)
Verb - Aorist Indicative Passive - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 5319: To make clear (visible, manifest), make known. From phaneros; to render apparent.

among
ἐν (en)
Preposition
Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.

us:
ἡμῖν (hēmin)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 1st Person Plural
Strong's 1473: I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.

God
Θεὸς (Theos)
Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2316: A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.

sent
ἀπέσταλκεν (apestalken)
Verb - Perfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 649: From apo and stello; set apart, i.e. to send out literally or figuratively.

His
αὐτοῦ (autou)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 846: He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.

one and only
μονογενῆ (monogenē)
Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3439: Only, only-begotten; unique. From monos and ginomai; only-born, i.e. Sole.

Son
Υἱὸν (Huion)
Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 5207: A son, descendent. Apparently a primary word; a 'son', used very widely of immediate, remote or figuratively, kinship.

into
εἰς (eis)
Preposition
Strong's 1519: A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.

the
τὸν (ton)
Article - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

world,
κόσμον (kosmon)
Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2889: Probably from the base of komizo; orderly arrangement, i.e. Decoration; by implication, the world (morally).

so that
ἵνα (hina)
Conjunction
Strong's 2443: In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.

we might live
ζήσωμεν (zēsōmen)
Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 1st Person Plural
Strong's 2198: To live, be alive. A primary verb; to live.

through
δι’ (di’)
Preposition
Strong's 1223: A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.

Him.
αὐτοῦ (autou)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 846: He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.


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NT Letters: 1 John 4:9 By this God's love was revealed (1J iJ 1Jn i jn 1 jo)
1 John 4:8
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