Definition: Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 John 3:2. It’s a really beautiful and important passage about God’s future relationship with us. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: Essentially, it means: “Beloved, we are now experiencing a special connection with God, but we don’t know exactly how that connection will look yet. But, when He appears – or comes back – we will be like Him in all things.” Let's unpack it a little: "Beloved" : This is a warm and loving greeting from the author of the letter. It emphasizes our special relationship with God. “Now are we the sons of God…” : This isn’t about biological relationships. “Sons of God” refers to being created by God, like us. We're not born with a divine nature, but we are given a special position within God's plan. “…and it doth not yet appear what we shall be…” : This is the key part. It’s saying that we don’t know exactly what our future will look like. We haven’t fully realized or experienced all of God's love and purpose for us. We still have a lot to discover. “…but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him…” : This is where the hope comes in. “He” refers to Jesus Christ (the Son of God). When He appears – whether as a future savior or a returning presence – we will become more like Him. We’ll be closer to His perfect nature and way of being. Think of it this way: Imagine you're learning to ride a bike. You don't know exactly how you’ll balance, how fast you’ll go, or what the feeling will be like – but you know that when you master it, you’ll be able to experience the joy and freedom of riding. The overall message is about: Eternal Hope : God's love for us isn't limited to our present lives; it’s eternally present. Transformation : We have the potential to grow closer to God through Him, and that growth will be reflected in how we become like Him. Focus on Christ : The verse emphasizes Jesus as the key to this future relationship, pointing us toward a deeper connection with God. Resources for Further Exploration: [Bible Gateway](https://www.biblegateway.com/charts) – This site allows you to see how different verses relate to each other and provides context. [Bible Explanations](https://www.bibleexplanations.com/) - Offers detailed explanations of biblical passages. Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail, or perhaps connect it to a specific theme in the Bible?

Definition: For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and important verse from 1 John 3:20. It's a really thought-provoking one! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that God’s love isn’t just about giving us things, but also about protecting and guiding us even when we make mistakes. It’s about recognizing that we are fallible – we're not perfect. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “For if our heart condemn us…” - This means that when we act badly, sin, or make choices that go against God’s will, we feel like we deserve punishment or rejection. We might feel ashamed, guilty, or even angry. It's a feeling of being unworthy. "...God is greater than our heart…” - This is the key part! God doesn’t just give us forgiveness or love because we deserve it. He knows everything about us – our past mistakes, our weaknesses, and even our desires. He knows that we are prone to making wrong choices. "...and knoweth all things." - This means God has a perfect understanding of who we are, what we’ve done, and where we’re going. He sees our flaws and understands the depth of our struggles. So, putting it all together: The verse is saying that God’s love isn't based on our feelings of worthiness or punishment. It’s based on His complete knowledge of us, even with our mistakes. Because we are judged by our own actions and hearts, God’s love is so powerful – it’s greater than anything we could do to deserve His favor. Why is this important? This verse encourages us to: Turn away from self-condemnation: Don't focus on feeling bad about your mistakes. Instead, ask for God’s forgiveness and move forward. Trust in God’s love: Even when we stumble, knowing that He knows and loves us deeply is comforting. Be open to His guidance: He wants to help us grow closer to Him, even through our struggles. In short, it's a message of unconditional love and forgiveness, recognizing that we are loved by God despite our imperfections. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you a different example from the Bible to illustrate this idea?

Definition: Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, [then] have we confidence toward God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really beautiful and important verse from 1 John 3:21. It’s a powerful message about faith and trust. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Think of it like this: “Beloved” : This is a warm, loving greeting – it speaks to someone who is cherished and valued by God. “If our heart condemn us not” : "Heart" here refers to your thoughts and feelings. "Condemn" means to judge or blame someone harshly. So, this part says that even if you believe something bad will happen to you, if your thoughts and feelings don't lead you to reject God, then you have confidence in Him. “Then” : This is a pause – it’s like saying, “If this happens, here’s what we can do.” “Have we confidence toward God?” : This is the core of the verse. It means that because your thoughts aren't rejecting God, you have faith and trust in Him. You believe He will be good and protect you, even when things seem difficult. In short, the verse says that if you don’t reject God based on what you think might happen, then you have confidence in Him. It emphasizes that our thoughts are not a reflection of who we truly are – they're not a judgment against us. What does this mean for us? It encourages us to: Trust God’s plan: Even when things don’t look perfect, we can trust that He has a purpose for everything. Hold onto hope: It reminds us that even in the face of challenges, God is with us and will protect us. Let go of worry: It encourages us to not let our anxieties about the future distract us from focusing on God's love and care. It’s a message of peace and reassurance – knowing that God loves you even when you don’t deserve it. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Provide context or background about the meaning of this passage?

Definition: And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from 1 John 3:22. It's a really important message about God’s love and how to live a good life. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: "And whatever you ask for, you will receive – because you follow his rules and do things that are pleasing to him." Let's unpack that a little: “Whatever you ask for…” - This is about your desires and needs. It could be anything – physical comfort, happiness, forgiveness, or even spiritual peace. “…you will receive…” - God wants to give you what’s best for you . He doesn't just want you to get what you want , but what he wants for you . “because you keep his commandments…” – This is the key part! “Commandments” means rules, laws, or guidelines that God has given us. These are things like being honest, loving your neighbor, not lying, protecting the vulnerable, and following fair rules. It’s about living a life that honors God. “and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.” - This means doing things that show you love and respect Him. It's about aligning your actions with His will – being good, kind, truthful, and respectful. “Pleasing to him” is like making a mark on God’s heart; it shows He loves us! In short, the verse is saying: God wants you to live a life that reflects His love and goodness. When you follow his rules and do good things, he will reward you with happiness and peace – because you are living in accordance with His will. Think of it like this: It’s about aligning your life with the best intentions and values, and God wants to see that reflected back at you. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain what "commandments" are? Give some examples of things that please God?

Definition: And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from 1 John 3:23. It’s a really important message about our relationship with God and each other. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it's saying: “This is his command – that we should believe in Jesus as the Son of God and love everyone just like he loved us.” Let’s unpack that a little bit: "And this is his commandment…" : This means it’s a rule , a guideline, something important for us to follow. It's like a law or a set of instructions. “…That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ…” : “Belief” means trusting in something. “His Son Jesus Christ” refers to Jesus, who is believed by Christians as the son of God and the savior of humanity. So, this is about recognizing and accepting that Jesus is really who he says he is – the divine Son of God. “…and love one another, as he gave us commandment.” : This is the key part! "He gave us commandment" means He instructed us to do something. "Love one another" means to treat each other with kindness, respect, and compassion. It’s about extending that same love and care to everyone we meet – friends, family, strangers, even those who disagree with us. So, the whole verse is saying: We should trust in Jesus as the Son of God, and then we should treat each other with the same love and kindness that Jesus showed us. It’s a call to unity and compassion. In short, it’s a powerful message about our relationship with God and with each other. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context around this passage (like its importance in the Bible)? Answer any specific questions you have about it?

Definition: And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 John 3:24. It's a really important one about our relationship with God and how to live a good life. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says that if you follow God’s rules (your commandments) and live a righteous life, you become part of God and he lives through you. Let's unpack it a little more: “And he that keeps his commandments”: This refers to living in accordance with God’s laws and moral principles. It means following what He says is right and good. Think of it as obeying His rules – honesty, kindness, respect for others, etc. “Dwelleth in him”: This is a bit tricky, but it means you're inhabited by God’s presence and guidance. You are not just observing his laws; you are actually being guided by him. It's like being a part of something larger than yourself. “And he in him”: This is the key part! It means that when you live a righteous life, God’s presence becomes you. He doesn't just exist around you; He actively participates and lives within you. “By the Spirit which he hath given us”: This is about the power to follow God. The Holy Spirit (often referred to as “the Spirit of Christ”) gives us guidance, strength, and wisdom to live a good life. It's like a gift or an enabling force that allows us to do what’s right. So, putting it all together: The verse says that if you follow God’s laws and live a moral life, you become part of God himself. You are no longer just an observer but are part of his plan for your life – he lives through you. Why is this important? It's a powerful message about our relationship with God. It tells us that we don’t need to earn His favor; He has already given us the ability to live righteously, and that's enough for us. In short, it’s a statement of grace – God wants to be involved in our lives and guide us to a life filled with goodness. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from John 3? Discuss the significance of this passage in more detail? Give you some examples of how to live by God’s commandments?

Definition: The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 3:2. It's a really important and fascinating part of the Bible! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about Jesus’ arrival and how he demonstrates God’s power. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “John 3:2” : This is a specific passage from the Gospel of John, which is one of the four Gospels (the stories about Jesus). “The same came to Jesus…” : This refers to Jesus himself – He was traveling alone. “…and said unto him…” : Jesus is speaking directly to him. “Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God…” : “Rabbi” means teacher or leader in Hebrew. So this is Jesus telling someone he’s a wise and important person. He's saying, "You are a teacher, and you do amazing things." “…for no man can do these miracles that thou doest…” : This is the really key part. Jesus is pointing out that only God can perform these kinds of incredible feats – miracles. He’s emphasizing that it's not possible for any human being, including Jesus, to do something this profound. “…except God be with him.” : This is the crucial part. It means that God is involved in performing these miracles. It’s a statement of complete reliance on divine power. In short: This verse tells us that Jesus is showing incredible signs and wonders – things that seem impossible – because God is actively participating! It's a powerful statement about the nature of God and His involvement in creation and our lives. Why is this important? It’s a foundational message for Christians, but it speaks to the idea that God is the ultimate source of all power and miracles. It’s about recognizing that God is greater than anything we can imagine. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in more detail? Give you a simple analogy to help you understand it better?

Definition: For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from John 3:20. It's a really profound message about God’s love and our relationship with Him. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that doing evil and rejecting God’s light (or goodness) will lead to eternal punishment. It’s a warning about the consequences of choosing the wrong path. Let's unpack it word by word: "John 3:20 For every one who does evil hateth the light..." – This is saying that those who actively choose to do bad things, or who reject God’s goodness and love, will naturally feel a negative feeling - a hatred of something good. It's not about wanting to be evil; it's about choosing to do it. "...neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved." – This is the crucial part. “The light” refers to God’s grace, His love, and His truth. "Reproved" means judged or condemned. If someone chooses to live in darkness, reject God's light, and do evil, they will eventually face judgment from God. Think of it like a path that leads into the dark – you’ll inevitably stumble into something unpleasant. So, what does this mean practically? It means we are all called to choose good over evil. It encourages us to: Turn away from sin and wickedness. Seek God's grace and love. Live a life that reflects His goodness. The Significance: This verse is often interpreted as a call to repentance – acknowledging our own failings and turning towards Jesus Christ. It’s about recognizing that we are all susceptible to darkness, but we have the opportunity to choose the light – God's light – which leads to eternal life with Him. In short, it’s a powerful warning about the consequences of choosing evil and a promise of salvation through faith in Jesus. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the meaning of this verse within a specific context (like sin, temptation, or forgiveness)?

Definition: But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and profound verse from John 3:21. It’s a really important one about faith and purpose. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, the verse is saying: "But he who does truth comes to the light..." – Think of "truth" as something that aligns with God’s will or understanding of reality. It’s not just any information; it’s about being right and following what's good. "...that his deeds may be made manifest..." – “Manifest” means to show up, to become visible. So, this means your actions will reveal who you truly are and what you believe. "...that they are wrought in God." – This is the key part! "Wrought" means to create or shape something with a divine hand. It’s suggesting that your life, your choices, and your work are guided by God . It's about aligning yourself with His plan for you. Putting it all together: This verse encourages us to live a truthful and righteous life. When we do good things, act honestly, and follow God’s principles, we’re essentially moving towards a purpose that’s revealed through God’s grace. It's about making our lives visible as a reflection of God’s love and will. In short, it’s saying that living a truthful life is the path to being seen and understood by God. Does this make sense? Do you want me to explain any part of it in more detail, or perhaps explore its connection to other Bible stories? For example, are you curious about: The meaning behind "truth"? How this verse relates to the story of Jesus' birth?

Definition: After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of Judaea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from John 3:22. It's a really important verse that explains why Jesus came to Earth! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse says: After Jesus arrived in the land of Judea (which is where we now live), he stayed with his followers and bathed them – meaning he washed them clean. Let's unpack that a little further: "After these things came Jesus..." : This tells us this happened after Jesus had been teaching, performing miracles, and generally making a big impact in the world. "...and his disciples into the land of Judaea..." : "Judaea" is where Israel was located at the time. So, he went to Jerusalem, which was a very important place for Jewish people. "...and there he tarried with them..." : He wasn’t just passing through; he stayed and spent some time with his followers (the people who believed in him). "...and baptized." : This is the really key part. "Baptism" was a ritual washing that symbolized: Rejection of sin: It showed that Jesus cleansed himself of the sins of everyone. New Life: It represented a new beginning, a chance to be forgiven and start a new life with God. What does this verse say about Jesus? It's telling us that Jesus wasn’t just a religious leader; he was also a powerful, transformative figure who wanted to connect with people on a personal level. He came to show them love, forgiveness, and the possibility of salvation through faith in him. In short, John 3:22 describes Jesus' first major act – washing his followers – as a demonstration of his love and his purpose in reaching out to humanity. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this verse within the context of the Bible? Answer any specific questions you have about it?