1 John 4:21

Authorized King James Version

And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.

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

ταύτην

G3778

the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)

τὴν

G3588

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

ἐντολὴν

G1785

commandment

injunction, i.e., an authoritative prescription

ἔχομεν

G2192

have we

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

ἀπ'

G575

from

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

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

ἵνα

G2443

That

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

ὁ

G3588

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

#10

ἀγαπᾷ

G25

he who loveth

to love (in a social or moral sense)

#11

τὸν

G3588

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

#12

θεὸν

G2316

God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

#13

ἀγαπᾷ

G25

he who loveth

to love (in a social or moral sense)

#14

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#15

τὸν

G3588

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

#16

ἀδελφὸν

G80

brother

a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)

#17

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 John, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, 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 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 love 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?
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 this verse's literary context within 1 John chapter 4 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

Related Resources

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Topics

Love