Definition: For all that [is] in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 John 2:16. It’s a really important one about temptation and our relationship with God. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “The desire for things that are worldly – like pleasure, power, status, or even just wanting to be admired – is not truly coming from God.” Let’s unpack that a little further: “For all that [is] in the world…” : This means every single person on Earth. It's not just about us as individuals; it’s about everyone around us. “…the lust of the flesh…” : This is often translated as “lust” or “sexual desire.” But it’s more than just a physical craving. It refers to a deep, often uncontrolled, desire for things that are temporary and don't last forever. Think about wanting what you can’t have right now – a specific piece of jewelry, a certain kind of relationship, etc. “…and the lust of the eyes…” : This is about our attraction to things that look good or exciting – like beautiful images, shiny objects, or even social media posts. It's a desire for something superficial. “and the pride of life…” : This refers to that feeling of importance and self-importance we get when we chase these worldly desires. We want to be admired, successful, and happy – but often this desire can lead us astray. So, what does it mean for us? It’s a warning! It tells us that we shouldn't let our desires for these things completely control us. We need to remember that God is the source of all good and beautiful things – He provides us with things that truly fulfill us and make us happy, not just fleeting wants. In short, it’s a reminder to focus on what's truly important – our relationship with God and living a life that reflects His love and goodness. Does this make sense? Would you like me to: Explain any of these concepts further? Give you some examples of things that can lead us astray (without being overly negative)?