1 John 1:9

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

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

ὁμολογῶμεν

G3670

we confess

to assent, i.e., covenant, acknowledge

τὰς

G3588

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

ἁμαρτίας

G266

our sins

a sin (properly abstract)

ἡμῶν

G2257

our

of (or from) us

πιστός

G4103

faithful

objectively, trustworthy; subjectively, trustful

ἐστιν

G2076

he is

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

καὶ

G2532

and

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

δίκαιος

G1342

just

equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)

#10

ἵνα

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

#11

ἀφῇ

G863

forgive

to send forth, in various applications (as follow)

#12

ἡμῖν

G2254

to (or for, with, by) us

#13

τὰς

G3588

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

#14

ἁμαρτίας

G266

our sins

a sin (properly abstract)

#15

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#16

καθαρίσῃ

G2511

to cleanse

to cleanse (literally or figuratively)

#17

ἡμᾶς

G2248

#18

ἀπὸ

G575

from

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

#19

πάσης

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

#20

ἀδικίας

G93

unrighteousness

(legal) injustice (properly, the quality, by implication, the act); morally, wrongfulness (of character, life or act)

Cross References

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

¹ Proverbs 28:13 Proverbs 28:13
He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.
— Whoso confesseth shall have mercy
² Psalms 32:5 Psalms 32:5
I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.
— I acknowledged my sin

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 John, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of faith connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about faith, 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 faith in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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