1 John 1:8

If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.

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

ἁμαρτίαν

G266

sin

a sin (properly abstract)

οὐκ

G3756

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

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

ἑαυτοὺς

G1438

ourselves

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

πλανῶμεν

G4105

we deceive

to (properly, cause to) roam (from safety, truth, or virtue)

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#10

ἡ

G3588

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

#11

ἀλήθεια

G225

the truth

truth

#12

οὐκ

G3756

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

#13

ἔστιν

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

#14

ἐν

G1722

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

#15

ἡμῖν

G2254

to (or for, with, by) us

Cross References

Related verses that illuminate this passage (hover to preview):

¹ Romans 3:23 Romans 3:23
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
— All have sinned
² 1 Kings 8:46 1 Kings 8:46
If they sin against thee, (for there is no man that sinneth not,) and thou be angry with them, and deliver them to the enemy, so that they carry them away captives unto the land of the enemy, far or near;
— No man that sinneth not

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 John, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of truth connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about truth, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to 1 John's theological argument.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 John Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes truth in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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?
How might the original audience's understanding of truth differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?

Related Resources

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