1 John 3:19

Authorized King James Version

And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him.

Word-by-Word Analysis

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

τούτῳ

G5129

hereby

to (in, with or by) this (person or thing)

γινώσκομεν

G1097

we know

to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)

ὅτι

G3754

that

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

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

τῆς

G3588

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

ἀληθείας

G225

the truth

truth

ἐσμέν,

G2070

we are

#10

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#11

ἔμπροσθεν

G1715

before

in front of (in place (literally or figuratively) or time)

#12

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

#13

πείσομεν

G3982

shall assure

to convince (by argument, true or false); by analogy, to pacify or conciliate (by other fair means); reflexively or passively, to assent (to evidence

#14

τὰς

G3588

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

#15

καρδίας

G2588

hearts

the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle

#16

ἡμῶν

G2257

our

of (or from) us

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing truth contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on truth address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding truth in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within 1 John chapter 3 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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