Definition: I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him [that is] from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse! It's a really beautiful and important message about our relationship with God. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse is saying: “I have written to you…” – This refers to you , the listeners – specifically, the older men (we can think of them as those who've been around for a while). “…because ye have known him [that is] from the beginning.” – This means you’ve already had a relationship with God. You’ve probably been influenced by Him in your life, and you’ve learned something about Him through your experiences. It's like having a foundation of understanding. “…I have written unto you, young men…” – This is addressed to the younger generation, those who are strong and capable. It’s calling out to us as well! “because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.” – This is the core message: "the word of God abideth…” - This means God's word (His teachings and promises) continues to live and influence our lives. It’s not just a dusty old book; it’s actively present in us. “…in you” – Your faith and belief in God are growing within you, becoming stronger. “and ye have overcome the wicked one.” - This is where it gets powerful! The “wicked one” represents temptation, sin, doubt, and negativity that tries to pull us away from God. You’ve fought against these things, and because of your faith and God's power, you are winning – resisting temptation, staying true to your beliefs, and growing in love and goodness. In a nutshell: The verse is encouraging us to continue living a life pleasing to God. We're given the strength and the ability to resist evil and live according to His will. It’s a reminder that our faith isn’t just something we know – it’s something we live . Does this explanation make sense? Do you have any specific questions about any part of this verse that you'd like me to clarify? For example, are you curious about: What "the word of God" means in a more concrete way? Why is it important to "overcome the wicked one"?