1 John 1:6

If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:

Word-by-Word Analysis

Ἐὰν

G1437

a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty

εἴπωμεν

G2036

we say

to speak or say (by word or writing)

ὅτι

G3754

that

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

κοινωνίαν

G2842

fellowship

partnership, i.e., (literally) participation, or (social) intercourse, or (pecuniary) benefaction

ἔχομεν

G2192

we have

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

μετ'

G3326

with

properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)

αὐτοῦ

G846

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

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#10

τῷ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#11

σκότει

G4655

darkness

shadiness, i.e., obscurity (literally or figuratively)

#12

περιπατῶμεν

G4043

walk

to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)

#13

ψευδόμεθα

G5574

we lie

to utter an untruth or attempt to deceive by falsehood

#14

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#15

οὐ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

#16

ποιοῦμεν

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

#17

τὴν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#18

ἀλήθειαν·

G225

the truth

truth

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 John. The concept of truth 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

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood truth. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Love