That which was from the beginning
This phrase echoes the opening of the Gospel of John, "In the beginning was the Word" (John 1:1, BSB). The Greek word for "beginning" is "archē," which signifies not just a point in time but the source or origin. It emphasizes the eternal nature of Christ, affirming His pre-existence before creation. This is foundational to the Christian faith, underscoring the divinity of Jesus and His role in the Godhead. Historically, this assertion counters early heresies that denied Christ's eternal nature, reinforcing the truth that Jesus is uncreated and co-eternal with the Father.

which we have heard
The Greek word "akouō" means to hear or listen. This phrase emphasizes the apostolic witness and the firsthand experience of the disciples. They did not rely on secondhand accounts but were direct recipients of Jesus' teachings. This personal testimony is crucial for the authenticity and authority of the message they proclaim. In a historical context, this counters Gnostic claims that spiritual knowledge was esoteric and only accessible to a select few. Instead, the apostles declare that the truth of Christ is accessible and has been openly shared.

which we have seen with our eyes
The verb "horaō" in Greek means to see or perceive. This phrase underscores the physical reality of Jesus' incarnation. The apostles were eyewitnesses to His life, ministry, death, and resurrection. This tangible experience is vital in affirming the truth of the Gospel against any docetic views that denied Jesus' physical body. The historical and archaeological evidence of Jesus' life and the early church's rapid growth further support the credibility of these eyewitness accounts.

which we have looked upon
The Greek word "theaomai" means to behold or contemplate. This suggests more than a casual glance; it implies a deep, reflective observation. The apostles not only saw Jesus but also contemplated His actions and teachings, gaining a profound understanding of His divine nature and mission. This depth of insight is what they share with the believers, encouraging them to also contemplate and understand the significance of Christ in their lives.

and our hands have touched
The Greek word "psēlaphaō" means to handle or touch. This phrase highlights the physical interaction with Jesus, particularly after His resurrection, as seen in Luke 24:39 where Jesus invites His disciples to touch Him to verify His physical resurrection. This tangible evidence is crucial in affirming the reality of the resurrection, a cornerstone of Christian faith. It assures believers of the truth of the resurrection and the hope of eternal life.

this we proclaim
The Greek word "apaggellō" means to announce or declare. The apostles are not merely sharing information; they are proclaiming a life-transforming truth. This proclamation is authoritative and carries the weight of their firsthand experience and divine commission. It is a call to faith and fellowship with God through Jesus Christ.

concerning the Word of life
The term "Word" (Greek "Logos") is rich in meaning, signifying Jesus as the divine reason and creative order. "Life" (Greek "Zōē") refers to eternal life, the divine life that Jesus imparts to believers. This phrase encapsulates the essence of the Gospel: Jesus, the eternal Word, is the source of true life. Historically, this counters any teachings that separate Jesus from the source of life, affirming that in Him alone is found the fullness of life and salvation. This message is central to the Christian proclamation, offering hope and assurance to all who believe.

and this life was revealed
The phrase "this life" refers to the eternal life embodied in Jesus Christ. The Greek word for "revealed" is "phaneroō," which means to make manifest or visible. In the historical context of the early church, this revelation was a profound declaration that the divine life, previously hidden, was now made known through the incarnation of Christ. This unveiling is not just a historical event but a continuous revelation to believers, emphasizing the accessibility of divine truth through Jesus.

we have seen it
The apostle John emphasizes the physical and tangible experience of witnessing Christ. The Greek word "horaō" for "seen" implies not just a casual glance but a deep, perceptive observation. This underscores the apostolic authority and firsthand testimony of the disciples, who were eyewitnesses to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. Historically, this counters early Gnostic claims that denied the physical reality of Jesus.

and testify to it
The word "testify" comes from the Greek "martyreō," which means to bear witness. This is a legal term, suggesting a solemn declaration of truth. The apostles' testimony is not based on hearsay but on direct experience, providing a foundation for the Christian faith. In a historical context, this testimony was crucial for the early church to establish the credibility of the Gospel message.

and we proclaim to you
"Proclaim" is translated from the Greek "apaggellō," meaning to announce or declare. This indicates an active and intentional sharing of the Gospel. The apostles' mission was to spread the message of Christ to all, fulfilling the Great Commission. This proclamation is not just informative but transformative, inviting listeners to partake in the eternal life offered through Jesus.

the eternal life
"Eternal life" in Greek is "zōē aiōnios," signifying not just unending existence but a quality of life that is divine and transcendent. This life is characterized by a relationship with God, beginning now and continuing forever. Theologically, it is a central promise of the Gospel, offering hope and assurance to believers.

that was with the Father
The phrase "with the Father" highlights the pre-existence and divine nature of Christ. The Greek "pros ton Patera" suggests an intimate relationship, indicating that Jesus was not only present with God but in a close, personal communion. This affirms the doctrine of the Trinity, where Jesus is distinct yet one with the Father.

and was revealed to us
The repetition of "revealed" emphasizes the importance of this divine disclosure. The apostles received this revelation directly, and through their witness, it is extended to all believers. This underscores the continuity of divine revelation from the Father, through the Son, to the apostles, and ultimately to the church. Historically, this revelation was foundational for establishing the truth of the Gospel against heretical teachings.

We proclaim
The Greek word used here is "ἀπαγγέλλομεν" (apangellomen), which means to announce or declare. This proclamation is not merely a casual sharing but a deliberate and authoritative declaration of truth. In the context of the early church, this proclamation was essential for spreading the Gospel message. Historically, the apostles were tasked with the Great Commission, and this proclamation is a continuation of that mission. It emphasizes the responsibility of believers to actively share the message of Christ with others.

to you
This phrase indicates the personal and direct nature of the message. The recipients of this letter are the early Christian communities, but by extension, it applies to all believers. The personal nature of this communication underscores the relational aspect of the Gospel. It is not just a message for the masses but a personal invitation to each individual to enter into fellowship with God.

what we have seen and heard
The use of "seen" (ἑωράκαμεν, heōrakamen) and "heard" (ἀκηκόαμεν, akēkoamen) emphasizes the firsthand experience of the apostles. This is not secondhand information or hearsay; it is a testimony based on direct experience with Jesus Christ. The historical context here is crucial, as the apostles were eyewitnesses to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. This firsthand testimony provides a solid foundation for the truth of the Gospel.

so that you also may have fellowship
The Greek word for fellowship is "κοινωνία" (koinōnia), which implies a deep, intimate partnership and sharing. This is not merely social interaction but a profound spiritual connection with God and other believers. The purpose of proclaiming the Gospel is to invite others into this divine fellowship. Historically, the early church was characterized by this deep sense of community and shared life in Christ.

with us
This phrase highlights the communal aspect of the Christian faith. The apostles are inviting others to join in the fellowship they already experience. It reflects the unity and oneness that should characterize the body of Christ. In the early church, this unity was a powerful testimony to the world of the transformative power of the Gospel.

And this fellowship of ours
The repetition of the concept of fellowship underscores its importance. The phrase "of ours" indicates that this is a shared experience among believers. It is not exclusive to the apostles but is available to all who believe. This shared fellowship is a source of strength and encouragement for the early Christians facing persecution and challenges.

is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ
The ultimate fellowship is with God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. This relationship is the foundation of the Christian faith. Theologically, it speaks to the Trinitarian nature of God and the unique relationship between the Father and the Son. Historically, this was a radical concept in a polytheistic world, emphasizing the monotheistic belief in one God who is relational and personal. This fellowship with God is made possible through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, bridging the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity.

We write these things
The phrase "We write these things" indicates the apostolic authority and communal nature of the message. The "we" suggests a collective witness, likely referring to John and other early church leaders. This communal aspect underscores the authenticity and shared experience of the apostles, who were eyewitnesses to Jesus Christ's life and ministry. The act of writing serves as a means of preserving and disseminating the truth of the Gospel, ensuring that the message remains unaltered and accessible to future generations. Historically, the written word was a powerful tool for teaching and maintaining doctrinal purity within the early church.

so that
This phrase introduces the purpose or result of the writing. It is a conjunction that connects the action of writing with the intended outcome. In the Greek, "hina" is often used to denote purpose, indicating that the subsequent statement is the reason for the preceding action. This highlights the intentionality behind the apostolic writings, emphasizing that they are not merely historical records but are crafted with a specific spiritual goal in mind.

our joy
The term "our joy" reflects a shared, communal joy that encompasses both the writer and the recipients of the letter. In the Greek, "chara" denotes a deep, abiding sense of gladness and delight that transcends circumstances. This joy is rooted in the fellowship with God and with one another, as described earlier in the epistle. It is a joy that is both personal and collective, reflecting the unity and love that characterize the Christian community. Theologically, joy is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and is often associated with the presence and work of God in the believer's life.

may be complete
The phrase "may be complete" suggests a process of fulfillment or perfection. The Greek word "pleroo" conveys the idea of being filled to the brim, reaching a state of fullness or completion. This implies that the joy of the believers is not static but is meant to grow and reach its full potential. The completion of joy is linked to the reception and application of the truths being communicated in the letter. In a broader scriptural context, this completion is part of the sanctification process, where believers are continually being conformed to the image of Christ, resulting in a deeper, more profound joy.

And this is the message
The Greek word for "message" here is "ἀγγελία" (angelia), which signifies a proclamation or announcement. This term underscores the authoritative and divine nature of the communication. In the historical context of the early church, this message was not merely a new teaching but a revelation that carried the weight of divine truth, meant to be received with reverence and obedience.

we have heard from Him
The phrase emphasizes the apostolic authority and eyewitness testimony of John and the other apostles. The Greek verb "ἀκούω" (akouo) implies not just hearing but understanding and internalizing the message. Historically, this reflects the close relationship the apostles had with Jesus, having been direct recipients of His teachings and witnesses to His life, death, and resurrection.

and announce to you
The Greek word "ἀναγγέλλω" (anaggellō) means to declare or report. This conveys the responsibility of the apostles to faithfully transmit the teachings of Christ to the believers. In the early church, this was crucial for maintaining doctrinal purity and unity among the followers of Christ, ensuring that the message remained unaltered and true to its divine origin.

God is light
The metaphor of "light" (φῶς, phōs) is rich in biblical symbolism, representing purity, holiness, and truth. In the Hebrew Scriptures, light is often associated with God's presence and guidance (e.g., Psalm 27:1, "The LORD is my light and my salvation"). This declaration affirms God's absolute moral perfection and His role as the source of all truth and righteousness.

and in Him there is no darkness at all
The phrase "no darkness at all" uses a double negative in Greek ("οὐδεμία σκοτία," oudemia skotia) for emphasis, underscoring the complete absence of sin or evil in God. Darkness, in biblical terms, often symbolizes sin, ignorance, and separation from God. This stark contrast between light and darkness highlights the incompatibility of sin with God's nature and serves as a call for believers to walk in the light, reflecting God's holiness in their lives.

If we say
This phrase introduces a conditional statement, emphasizing the importance of self-examination in the Christian life. The Greek word for "say" (λέγω, legō) implies a verbal profession of faith. In the early church, as now, there was a distinction between mere verbal claims and genuine faith. This calls believers to reflect on the authenticity of their declarations of faith.

we have fellowship with Him
"Fellowship" (κοινωνία, koinōnia) is a profound term that denotes a deep, intimate relationship with God. It is more than mere association; it implies a shared life and purpose. Historically, this concept was central to the early Christian community, emphasizing unity and shared spiritual life. True fellowship with God transforms one's life and aligns it with His will.

yet walk in the darkness
The word "walk" (περιπατέω, peripateō) in Greek suggests a habitual lifestyle or conduct. "Darkness" (σκότος, skotos) symbolizes sin, ignorance, and separation from God. In the biblical context, walking in darkness is living in a way that contradicts God's nature and commands. This phrase challenges believers to examine whether their daily lives reflect the light of Christ or the darkness of the world.

we lie
The Greek word for "lie" (ψεύδομαι, pseudomai) indicates a deliberate falsehood. This is a strong admonition against hypocrisy. In the historical context of the early church, false teachings and claims were prevalent, and John warns against self-deception and misleading others about one's spiritual state.

and do not practice the truth
"Practice" (ποιέω, poieō) implies ongoing action and commitment. "Truth" (ἀλήθεια, alētheia) in the biblical sense is not just factual accuracy but living in accordance with God's revealed will. This phrase underscores the necessity of aligning one's actions with the truth of the Gospel. Historically, this was a call to integrity and authenticity in the Christian walk, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture.

But if we walk
The phrase "walk" in the Greek is "περιπατῶμεν" (peripatōmen), which implies a continuous, habitual action. In the biblical context, walking often symbolizes one's conduct or way of life. This suggests that living a life aligned with God's will is not a one-time event but a continual journey. The conditional "if" introduces a choice, emphasizing the importance of free will in the Christian life. Believers are called to actively choose to live in a manner that reflects God's holiness.

in the light
The "light" here is "φωτί" (phōti) in Greek, symbolizing purity, truth, and divine revelation. Biblically, light is often associated with God’s presence and righteousness (e.g., Psalm 27:1, John 8:12). Walking in the light means living in truth and transparency, away from the darkness of sin and deception. It is an invitation to live in the clarity and guidance that comes from God, who is the ultimate source of light.

as He is in the light
This phrase underscores the standard of holiness and purity that God embodies. "He" refers to God, who is inherently light, as stated earlier in 1 John 1:5. The call is to emulate God's nature, striving to reflect His character in our daily lives. This is a high calling, reminding believers that their model is not the world but God Himself, who is perfect in holiness.

we have fellowship with one another
"Fellowship" is translated from the Greek "κοινωνία" (koinōnia), which denotes a deep, intimate partnership or sharing. This fellowship is not merely social interaction but a spiritual communion rooted in shared faith and mutual love. Walking in the light fosters genuine relationships among believers, as they are united by their common pursuit of living in God's truth.

and the blood of Jesus His Son
The "blood" signifies the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, which is central to Christian redemption. In the Old Testament, blood was required for atonement (Leviticus 17:11), and Jesus' blood fulfills this requirement once and for all. The mention of "His Son" emphasizes the divine nature and authority of Jesus, underscoring the significance of His sacrifice.

cleanses us from all sin
The Greek word for "cleanses" is "καθαρίζει" (katharizei), indicating a thorough purification process. This cleansing is not partial but complete, covering "all sin." It highlights the sufficiency of Christ's atonement, offering believers total forgiveness and restoration. This assurance of cleansing is foundational to the Christian faith, providing believers with the confidence to approach God without the burden of guilt.

If we say
This phrase introduces a hypothetical claim or assertion. In the context of the early church, there were groups, such as the Gnostics, who claimed spiritual enlightenment and moral perfection. The Greek word for "say" (λέγω, legō) implies a verbal declaration, suggesting that this is not just a private thought but a public assertion. The apostle John is addressing the danger of self-deception and the importance of humility in acknowledging one's sinful nature.

we have no sin
The phrase "we have no sin" is a denial of the inherent sinful nature of humanity. The Greek word for "sin" (ἁμαρτία, hamartia) refers to missing the mark or falling short of God's standards. Historically, this denial could be linked to early heresies that downplayed the reality of sin. From a conservative Christian perspective, this phrase underscores the doctrine of original sin, which teaches that all humans are born with a sinful nature due to the fall of Adam and Eve.

we deceive ourselves
The Greek word for "deceive" (πλανάω, planaō) means to lead astray or to wander. This self-deception is a grave spiritual danger, as it blinds individuals to their need for repentance and salvation. The reflexive pronoun "ourselves" emphasizes personal responsibility in recognizing one's sinfulness. In a historical context, this self-deception can be seen in the Pharisees' self-righteousness, which Jesus frequently rebuked.

and the truth is not in us
The "truth" (ἀλήθεια, alētheia) in this context refers to the divine truth of God's word and the reality of human sinfulness. The absence of truth indicates a lack of genuine relationship with God, as truth is a fundamental attribute of His nature. From a scriptural standpoint, this phrase highlights the necessity of living in the light of God's truth, as opposed to the darkness of denial and falsehood. The phrase "is not in us" suggests an internal deficiency, pointing to the need for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit to guide believers into all truth.

If we confess our sins
The phrase "If we confess our sins" begins with the conditional "if," indicating a choice and an action required on our part. The Greek word for "confess" is "homologeo," which means to agree with or to acknowledge. This implies a sincere admission of our wrongdoings, not merely a superficial acknowledgment. In the historical context of the early church, confession was a communal and personal act, often done publicly or within a community, reflecting a deep commitment to truth and transparency. The act of confessing is not just about listing sins but involves a heartfelt recognition of our need for God's grace.

He is faithful and just
The assurance that "He is faithful and just" speaks to the character of God. The Greek word for "faithful" is "pistos," which conveys reliability and trustworthiness. God’s faithfulness is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, emphasizing His unwavering commitment to His promises. The term "just" comes from the Greek "dikaios," meaning righteous or fair. This highlights God's moral integrity and His commitment to justice. Historically, this assurance would have been comforting to early Christians facing persecution, reminding them that God’s nature is unchanging and dependable.

to forgive us our sins
The phrase "to forgive us our sins" underscores the purpose and result of confession. The Greek word for "forgive" is "aphiemi," which means to send away or to release. This conveys the idea of God removing the burden of sin from us, offering complete liberation. In the scriptural context, forgiveness is not earned but is a gift of grace, reflecting the sacrificial love of Christ. This assurance of forgiveness would have been a profound source of hope and renewal for believers, emphasizing the transformative power of God’s mercy.

and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness
Finally, "and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" speaks to the comprehensive nature of God’s redemptive work. The Greek word for "cleanse" is "katharizo," which means to purify or make clean. This purification is not just a surface-level cleansing but a deep, spiritual renewal. The term "unrighteousness" refers to anything that is not in alignment with God’s holy standards. Historically, the concept of cleansing would resonate with Jewish purification rituals, symbolizing a return to a state of holiness and acceptance before God. This promise assures believers that through confession and God’s grace, they are restored to a right relationship with Him, free from the stain of sin.

If we say
This phrase introduces a hypothetical claim, reflecting a common rhetorical style in John's epistles. The Greek word "ἐὰν εἴπωμεν" (ean eipōmen) suggests a conditional statement, inviting readers to examine their own assertions about sin. Historically, this reflects early Christian communities grappling with Gnostic influences that denied the reality of sin.

we have not sinned
The Greek "οὐχ ἡμαρτήκαμεν" (ouch hēmartēkamen) is a perfect tense, indicating a completed action with ongoing effects. This phrase challenges any denial of personal sinfulness, a concept deeply rooted in the Jewish understanding of human nature as seen in the Old Testament. The denial of sin contradicts the biblical narrative of humanity's fall and need for redemption.

we make Him out to be a liar
The phrase "ψεύστην ποιοῦμεν αὐτόν" (pseustēn poioumen auton) is a strong accusation. To claim sinlessness is to contradict God's revelation about human nature and His declarations throughout Scripture, such as in Romans 3:23, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." This phrase underscores the gravity of denying sin, as it directly challenges God's truthfulness.

and His word is not in us
The Greek "καὶ ὁ λόγος αὐτοῦ οὐκ ἔστιν ἐν ἡμῖν" (kai ho logos autou ouk estin en hēmin) emphasizes the absence of God's transformative truth in those who deny sin. "Logos" (λόγος) is a profound term, often referring to Christ Himself (John 1:1) or God's revealed truth. This phrase suggests that acknowledging sin is essential for God's word to dwell within us, aligning with the transformative power of Scripture and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.