1 John 4:7

Authorized King James Version

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Ἀγαπητοί,

G27

Beloved

beloved

ἀγαπῶν

G25

let us love

to love (in a social or moral sense)

ἀλλήλους

G240

one another

ὅτι

G3754

for

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

ἡ

G3588

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

ἀγάπη

G26

love

love, i.e., affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast

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

τοῦ

G3588

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

Θεόν

G2316

God

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

#10

ἐστιν

G2076

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

#11

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#12

πᾶς

G3956

every one

all, any, every, the whole

#13

ὁ

G3588

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

#14

ἀγαπῶν

G25

let us love

to love (in a social or moral sense)

#15

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

#16

τοῦ

G3588

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

#17

Θεόν

G2316

God

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

#18

γεγέννηται

G1080

is born

to procreate (properly, of the father, but by extension of the mother); figuratively, to regenerate

#19

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#20

γινώσκει

G1097

knoweth

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

#21

τὸν

G3588

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

#22

Θεόν

G2316

God

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 John, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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 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 love. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on love address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Love