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Book of 1 John - Chapter 3 - Verse 1

3:1
Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.

Meaning

John, in his first epistle, expresses wonder and amazement at the incredible love that God the Father has shown to us by calling us His children. This love is beyond comprehension, as it elevates us to the status of being sons and daughters of God Himself. The world may not understand this special relationship we have with God, for it did not recognize or acknowledge Jesus when He walked among us. As believers, we are set apart from the world because we are now part of God's family, with all the rights and privileges that come with that status. This verse serves as a reminder of the incredible love and grace that God has showered upon us, and it encourages us to embrace our identity as children of God with humility and gratitude.

Theological Overview

When examining the theological interpretation of 1 John 3:1, it is important to understand the depth of the love the Father has bestowed upon us. The term "sons of God" signifies our adoption into God's family, showing that we are heirs to His kingdom and share in His divine nature. This love is not earned or deserved, but freely given by God out of His abundant grace and mercy. The world may not recognize us as children of God because it did not recognize Jesus, the Son of God, when He walked among us. As believers, our identity is rooted in Christ, and our lives should reflect His love and character, even if it means being misunderstood or rejected by the world. This verse serves as a reminder of the incredible privilege and responsibility we have as children of God, called to walk in love and light in a world that may not always understand or accept us.

American Standard Version

Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called children of God; and [such] we are. For this cause the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
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