1 John 5:3

Authorized King James Version

For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.

Word-by-Word Analysis

αὕτη

G3778

this

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

γάρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ἐστιν

G2076

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

ἡ

G3588

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

ἀγάπη

G26

the love

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

τοῦ

G3588

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

Θεοῦ,

G2316

of God

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

ἵνα

G2443

that

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

τὰς

G3588

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

#10

ἐντολαὶ

G1785

commandments

injunction, i.e., an authoritative prescription

#11

αὐτοῦ

G846

his

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

#12

τηρῶμεν

G5083

we keep

to guard (from loss or injury, properly, by keeping the eye upon; and thus differing from g5442, which is properly to prevent escaping; and from g2892

#13

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#14

αἱ

G3588

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

#15

ἐντολαὶ

G1785

commandments

injunction, i.e., an authoritative prescription

#16

αὐτοῦ

G846

his

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

#17

βαρεῖαι

G926

grievous

weighty, i.e., (fig) burdensome, grave

#18

οὐκ

G3756

not

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

#19

εἰσίν.

G1526

are

they are

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 John. The concept of love reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes agape in Greek contexts or hesed in Hebrew, indicating covenantal loyalty, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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?
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?
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

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

Topics

Love