1 John 1

1 John 1:1

Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by which you are called? The name of Christ. There is an allusion either to the fact that they were already called Christians, or that they were baptized in his name.

1 John 1:2

The royal law according to the scripture. The law of love for one’s neighbor (Leviticus 19:8), which is the fulfillment of the law. See Galatians 5:14.

1 John 1:3

But if ye have respect to persons. Such partiality as that described in James 2:3. Ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. Would break this law, and hence would be a sin, and the sinner would be convicted as a transgressor.

1 John 1:4

Whoever shall keep the whole law. If the law is broken by “respect of persons”, the whole law is broken. Yet offend in one [point], he is guilty of all. He who willfully breaks one command is a law breaker and is guilty before the law.

1 John 1:5

He that said, etc. He that gave one command, gave the other commands. If you break any one of them, you sin against the Divine Lawgiver.

1 John 1:6

So speak ye, and so do. So act as one judged by the law of liberty. The Gospel, which is not a law of outward compulsion, but of a new and willing spirit. See Romans 8:2,15.

1 John 1:7

He shall have judgment without mercy. We must show mercy if we expect mercy. Our own spirit determines our manner of judgment. See Matthew 6:15. If we love our neighbor, God will love us.

1 John 1:8

What [doth it] profit? Professions are nothing unless their fruit is deeds. Even faith is of no avail unless it demonstrates its life by works.

1 John 1:9

If a brother or sister. A practical application is now made of the royal law. Be naked. Insufficiently clothed.

1 John 1:10

Depart in peace, be [ye] warmed and filled. Express to the needy only kind wishes; that he be warmed by receiving good clothing and fed by food being provided. What [doth it] profit? Such good wishes are worthless unless followed up by active help to the sufferer.