1 John 1:10

Authorized King James Version

If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἐὰν
If
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
#2
εἴπωμεν
we say
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#3
ὅτι
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#4
οὐκ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#5
ἡμαρτήκαμεν
sinned
properly, to miss the mark (and so not share in the prize), i.e., (figuratively) to err, especially (morally) to sin
#6
ψεύστην
a liar
a falsifier
#7
ποιοῦμεν
we make
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
#8
αὐτοῦ
him
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#9
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
λόγος
word
something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
#12
αὐτοῦ
him
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#13
οὐκ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#14
ἔστιν
is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#15
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#16
ἡμῖν
us
to (or for, with, by) us

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 John. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics