Definition: Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 John 4:1. It's a really important message about truth and discernment. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse is telling us to be wary of people who aren’t genuine and trustworthy. Let’s unpack it word-by-word: “1 John 4”: This is a letter written by the Apostle John, who was very close to Jesus. It's a message of encouragement and warning. “Beloved”: This is a warm greeting to the readers – essentially, “My dear friends.” “Believe not every spirit…” - This means don’t just blindly accept everything anyone says or does. Don’t let your emotions or feelings lead you astray. “…but try the spirits…” – This is the key part. It's asking us to actively test people. Think of it like trying to figure out if someone is truly genuine. “whether they are of God”: This is a crucial question. The verse emphasizes that we need to determine if someone’s motives and beliefs are aligned with what God wants for our lives. “…because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” – This tells us there's a lot of people around now who are trying to deceive others, presenting themselves as spiritual leaders but not actually being true Christians. "False prophets" means people who aren’t believers and try to trick others. So, what does this mean for us? It’s a call to be discerning. We should: Don't blindly trust everyone: We need to look beyond the surface and evaluate whether someone is sincere in their beliefs. Be critical: Question things that seem too good to be true, or that don't line up with God’s teachings. Seek genuine truth: Focus on those who are walking in faith and love as Jesus did. In short, the verse urges us to stay grounded in our faith and avoid being misled by false leaders. --- Do you want me to explain any of this further? For example, would you like me to: Give you an analogy to help understand the concept? Discuss what kind of "false prophets" might be considered?

Definition: Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son [to be] the propitiation for our sins.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from 1 John 4:10. It’s a really profound statement about the nature of love in Christianity. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse essentially says that love isn’t something we deserve or earn . It’s a gift from God. It’s about a radical and incredible act of compassion and mercy. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "Herein is love..." – This means “here” refers to this specific verse. The verse is about the presence of love. "...not that we loved God..." – This is the crucial part. It’s important to understand that John isn't saying we used to love God. We weren’t always a loving people. He’s highlighting a new kind of love – one that comes from God. "...but that he loved us..." – This is the core message. God, in his immense care and goodness, chose to love us, even though we didn't deserve it. "...and sent his Son [to be] the propitiation for our sins." – This is where it gets really significant. “Propitiation” is a fancy word that means "atonement." God sent His Son (Jesus) to atone for our sins. What does this mean in practice? Sins are offenses against God. We all make mistakes, we hurt others, and we do things that violate God’s will. The Son's Sacrifice: Jesus Christ died on the cross as a sacrifice for us. This sacrifice removes our guilt and shame for our sins. It’s like an apology offered to God for all our transgressions. In short, this verse emphasizes that God’s love is so powerful that He sends His Son to take away what we've done wrong. It’s a message of forgiveness, redemption, and hope – knowing that God’s love ultimately wins over even our deepest mistakes. Think of it like this: Imagine someone offers you a gift (the Son’s sacrifice). You didn't deserve that gift, but because of their kindness, they give it to you. That’s the essence of what this verse is saying: God offers us forgiveness and a way out of our problems through His Son. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part in more detail? Connect this verse to another Bible passage? Give a quick example of how this principle applies in everyday life?

Definition: Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from 1 John 4:11: “1 John 4:11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” Here's a simplified explanation: Basically, it means: God loves you deeply: The verse starts with a warm and gentle expression of God’s affection for you. It’s like saying, "We really care about you." That love is reciprocal: Because God loves you so much, He also wants us to love each other in return. Let's unpack it a little further: “Beloved” : This word means “beloved,” and it’s a gentle way of saying "dear" or "loved." It shows that God has a special connection with you. “If God so loved us…” : This is the key part. It's an expression of gratitude – acknowledging that God actually loves you. So, what does it mean in practice? It’s a call to kindness, compassion, and mutual respect towards each other. It suggests we should treat others with the same love and care that God shows us. It's about recognizing that we are all connected as part of God’s family. In short, it’s a beautiful message about the importance of loving one another. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how to show love to others?

Definition: No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from 1 John 4:12 together. It’s a really important message about the nature of God and our relationship with Him. Here's what it means, explained simply: Essentially, it says: “No man has seen God at any time.” – This is a big statement. It means that humans, as we are, haven’t directly experienced God in a way that allows us to know Him. We can't look at God and see His presence or glory. It’s like trying to see the sun with your eyes – you can’t see it directly. “If we love one another…” - This is the key part! It’s not just about liking each other; it’s about genuine, deep love. "...God dwelleth in us..." – This means that God isn't just existing with us; He’s actively living within us. He’s a part of us, influencing our thoughts and actions. “and his love is perfected in us.” - Because we love each other, it signifies that God’s love – His grace, mercy, forgiveness, and care – is being applied to us personally. It's not just felt , but it's changed within us. His love isn't just a feeling; it’s actively working to make us better people. So, in short, the verse means: We don’t see God directly, but through our loving relationships with each other, we can glimpse His presence and goodness within ourselves. It suggests that genuine connection and compassion are a key way to experience God's love. Think of it like this: Imagine you have a beautiful garden. You can't see the flowers blooming inside the plants, but just by tending to them and admiring their beauty, you feel connected to something larger than yourself – a sense of life and growth. Does that make sense? Do you want me to elaborate on any part of it, or perhaps explore why this verse is important in the Bible? For example, we could talk about: The concept of spiritual gifts How love affects our relationship with God The idea of a ‘spiritual life’

Definition: Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from 1 John 4:13. It's a really important message about connection and partnership! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, it says: “We are connected to God through him, and he is connected to us.” Let's unpack that a little bit: “Hereby know we…” – This is like saying "we realize" or "we understand." It’s a direct realization. “…that we dwell in him…” - “Dwell” means to live, to be present, and to spend time with someone. So, this means we are present and living within God. We're not just visiting him, but actually being with him. “and he in us…” – “He in us” is a key part of it. It’s like saying that God isn't just existing in us, but actively influencing and participating in our lives. He’s not just watching from afar; He’s working within us. “because he hath given us of his Spirit.” – "He hath given us" means “He has given” or “He has bestowed.” “His Spirit” is a crucial part of this. The spirit is God's power, His presence, and His guidance. This verse says that God has given us the ability to live as He wants us to. So, putting it all together: It’s saying that we aren't just on our own; we are deeply connected to God through his Spirit. He’s not just directing us, but he's empowering us to live a life that reflects His love and goodness. It's about a relationship of partnership – two people living together in the same spirit. Why is this important? This verse reminds us that we don’t have to do everything on our own. God provides us with something powerful – his Spirit – to help us live a life that honors Him and brings Him joy. It's about a relationship of trust and partnership with God. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific concept (like faith or love)? Give you some examples of how the Spirit helps us live?

Definition: And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son [to be] the Saviour of the world.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 John 4:14 together. It’s a really important and comforting passage! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: God sent His Son (Jesus) to be the savior of everyone – that’s the whole world! Let’s unpack each part: “We have seen…” : This is a bit more figurative. It means we've observed and witnessed Jesus’ life and teachings. Think of it like seeing a pattern or truth in His actions. “…and do testify…” : This is a strong statement – we confirm this truth. We believe it to be true. “The Father sent the Son…” : This highlights that Jesus wasn’t just a person, but a special, intentional choice by God. “…to be the Saviour of the world.” : "Savior" means to save someone from danger or suffering. “The Saviour of the world” means He is uniquely responsible for bringing peace, forgiveness, and hope to everyone on Earth. Think of it this way: It’s like God, in His love and plan, chose Jesus to be the one who bridges the gap between humanity and God, offering a path to redemption and eternal life for all people. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the core message of Christianity – that God’s love extends beyond just us; He wants a relationship with everyone, and that relationship includes Jesus as the ultimate savior. Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/1John%204%2014](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/1John%204%2014) – This is a great place to read the verse in context and see how it’s used throughout scripture. Bible Explanations: [https://bibleexplainer.com/1john/4/14](https://bibleexplainer.com/1john/4/14) - This website offers a helpful breakdown of the verse's meaning and significance. Do you want me to: Explain another verse from 1 John? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail?

Definition: Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from 1 John 4:15. It's a really profound statement about the relationship between Jesus Christ and God! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “Whosoever…” – This is a greeting – “to whoever.” “…confesses that Jesus is the Son of God…” - This means someone who clearly and earnestly acknowledges that Jesus is truly the Son of God – which is a very important belief. Think of it as admitting to understanding and recognizing Jesus’ divine nature. "...God dwelleth in him..." – This is a key part. It's saying that because someone confesses this, God lives or dwells within them. "...and he in God." – This completes the thought. God isn’t just existing in Jesus; He's actively participating with Him. God is present and united with Jesus Christ. In a nutshell, it means: Anyone who truly believes that Jesus is God’s Son – and acknowledges that He is God – is like a house where God lives and shines through! It's a powerful statement of divine presence and ultimate reality. Why is this important? This verse is often seen as a foundational truth in Christian theology, emphasizing: Jesus’ Divinity: It highlights Jesus’ unique identity as the Son of God – not just a human being, but divine. God's Presence: It shows that God isn't just around , but actively involved with Jesus Christ. Does this mean we need to believe it? Absolutely! It’s more than just an intellectual understanding; it's a fundamental truth that shapes our relationship with God and our faith. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Answer any specific questions you have about it?

Definition: And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from 1 John 4:16 together! Here's what it means in simple terms: Essentially, this verse is saying: "We know and believe the love God has for us." This is the core of it. It’s not just thinking about God's love; we know it and genuinely feel it. “God is love.” This is a fundamental truth in Christianity – God isn't just powerful or good, but He is love. It means God loves us unconditionally, without any condition. "And he who dwells in love dwelleth in God, and God in him." This is the key part that connects it all. Let’s unpack it: “He who dwells in love”: This refers to those who have a relationship with God through faith – someone who truly loves Him. “Dwelleth in God”: This means they are within God's presence and understanding. “God in him”: This is like saying "God lives within the person." It emphasizes that God’s love isn't just a feeling; it’s actively present, transforming them. Putting it all together: It means that when we have a genuine relationship with God, we are already experiencing His love. This love makes us part of God and allows us to truly know and believe in God. It’s like being drawn into God's heart – you’re not just observing Him; you’re in Him! In a nutshell: We experience God’s love through faith, and that faith brings us closer to God, allowing us to understand and truly believe in His goodness and loving nature. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that you'd like me to answer? For example, are you curious about: Its meaning in a particular context (like relationships)? How it relates to other Bible passages? What it means for our lives?

Definition: Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and profound verse from 1 John 4:17. It's a really interesting message about how God works within us. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that our love for God is complete – to the point where we become like Him. And because of this completeness, we are empowered to live fully and boldly in this world. Let's break it down word by word: “Herein is our love made perfect…” - This means that God’s love for us is fully realized and complete . It’s not just a feeling; it’s a tangible state of being. Think of it like a beautiful, shining light – it's not just present, but also powerfully radiant. “…that we may have boldness in the day of judgment…” - “Boldness” means courage and confidence. "The day of judgment" refers to a future time when God will look back on all of creation and see who is truly faithful to Him. So, having this love made perfect means that we are also courageous and confident in facing life's challenges. “because as he is, so are we in this world.” – This is the really important part! It’s saying that because God loves us perfectly, that same love manifests within us. We aren’t just passively living; our lives are influenced by His love. When we live according to His will, and when we truly love Him, it affects how we react in the world – how we stand up for what's right, how we act with kindness, and how we handle difficult situations. In simpler terms: Imagine a mirror reflecting God’s image. When that mirror is perfectly clear and reflects His light, you become more confident and courageous to face anything. This verse suggests that our love for God makes us capable of living a truly good and meaningful life in this world. The Bigger Picture: This verse speaks to the idea that we are not just reacting to the world, but actively participating in it with love and courage – all because of God’s love for us. It's about being transformed by faith and a deep connection to our Savior. Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Give an example of how this applies to your life?

Definition: There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and profound verse from 1 John 4:18. It's a really insightful message about the power of love! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says that true love doesn't cause fear. Let’s unpack that a little: “There is no fear in love…” This means that when you truly love someone or something, you don’t feel anxious or worried about it. You don’t have a feeling of dread or apprehension. It’s a state of peacefulness and trust. “…but perfect love casts out fear:” “Perfect love” is a really important word here. It's not just any kind of love; it's a specific kind of love that's driven by a deep, genuine connection. This "perfect love" actively works to remove fear. Think of it like this: when you truly love someone, you don’t have to constantly worry about them or the situation. You are free from anxiety because your heart is filled with love. “Because fear hath torment:” This part is a little more poetic. "Fear" here refers to that negative emotion – the anxiety, dread, and pain that can come from not knowing something or being uncertain. “Hath torment” means it’s a painful and destructive force. So, this verse says that fear caused by love is harmful and keeps us from growing in our relationship with God (or with each other). “He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” This is the key takeaway. If you're constantly worried about something or someone because of fear, you’re never truly able to grow closer to God or to others. Love helps us become better – more patient, kind, understanding, and peaceful. By letting go of fear, we open ourselves up to a deeper, more fulfilling relationship with the divine. In short, the verse encourages us to embrace love as the source of our peace. It's not about avoiding fear entirely (that’s impossible!), but rather to replace it with the radiant power of love. Why is this important? This verse speaks to a fundamental truth in the Bible: that love is the key to spiritual growth and fulfillment. It reminds us that true faith isn't about passively accepting things; it’s about actively choosing peace and trust. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give some examples of how to cultivate love? Connect this verse to a specific story or passage from the Bible?