1 John 2:16

Authorized King James Version

For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ὅτι

G3754

For

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

πᾶν

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

τὸ

G3588

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

ἐν

G1722

that is in

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

τῷ

G3588

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

κόσμου

G2889

the world

orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))

ἡ

G3588

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

ἐπιθυμία

G1939

the lust

a longing (especially for what is forbidden)

τῆς

G3588

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

#10

σαρκὸς

G4561

of the flesh

flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or

#11

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#12

ἡ

G3588

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

#13

ἐπιθυμία

G1939

the lust

a longing (especially for what is forbidden)

#14

τῶν

G3588

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

#15

ὀφθαλμῶν

G3788

of the eyes

the eye (literally or figuratively); by implication, vision; figuratively, envy (from the jealous side-glance)

#16

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#17

ἡ

G3588

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

#18

ἀλαζονεία

G212

the pride

braggadocio, i.e., (by implication) self-confidence

#19

τοῦ

G3588

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

#20

βίου

G979

of life

life, i.e., (literally) the present state of existence; by implication, the means of livelihood

#21

οὐκ

G3756

not

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

#22

ἐστίν

G2076

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

#23

ἐκ

G1537

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

#24

τοῦ

G3588

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

#25

πατρὸς

G3962

the Father

a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)

#26

ἀλλ'

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

#27

ἐκ

G1537

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

#28

τοῦ

G3588

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

#29

κόσμου

G2889

the world

orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))

#30

ἐστίν

G2076

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 John, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of life connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about life, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 John.

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 life. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of life differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this verse's literary context within 1 John chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on life address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Love