Definition: This is he that came by water and blood, [even] Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 John 5:6 together. It's a really important and beautiful message about God’s relationship with us! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says that Jesus Christ is the way of God, the path to salvation, and He isn’t just through water – he’s also with water. Let's unpack it a little more: “This is he who came by water and blood…” - This refers to Jesus’s life. Jesus spent his life teaching, performing miracles, and dying on the cross. He was the source of cleansing and forgiveness for our sins. Think of it like a fresh start – washing away our dirty tracks. “[even] Jesus Christ” - This is crucial . It's emphasizing that Jesus wasn’t just about the method of getting forgiveness, but also the result – He offers us salvation through His sacrifice. “Not by water only, but by water and blood…” – This continues to highlight that his work isn’t just about cleansing with water. It's also about being cleansed through the pain and suffering of death on the cross. It's a complete purification. “And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.” – This is the really exciting part. "Beareth witness" means “to bear record” or “to testify.” The spirit (God’s power) is like a witness who speaks the truth. It's saying that the Spirit is actively revealing and confirming what Jesus did. The Spirit, being true, shows us the truth of His work. So, put it all together: 1 John 5:6 is saying that Jesus Christ isn’t just about receiving forgiveness through water (like baptism) or blood (like a sacrifice). He's offering us salvation through both – the cleansing of our sins and the assurance of eternal life. The Spirit, as witness, confirms and reveals this truth to us. What does it mean for us? It means we have assurance of God’s love and forgiveness through Jesus Christ! It’s a powerful message about the ultimate victory over sin and death. Does that make sense? Do you want me to explain any part in more detail, or perhaps relate this verse to something specific in your life? For example, are you struggling with: Feeling like you need to do more to be forgiven? Wanting to understand what it means to have faith?