Book of 1 John - Chapter 3 - Verse 2

This verse from the first epistle of John speaks to the believers' identity as children of God. It highlights the love and privilege bestowed upon individuals who have accepted Jesus Christ as their savior, declaring them as God's own sons and daughters. The verse emphasizes the transformation that believers will undergo when Christ returns, promising that they will be like Him. This transformation hints at a process of sanctification and glorification that will occur in believers, making them more and more like Christ in character and nature. The verse also underscores the mystery and anticipation surrounding this transformation, as it is something that has not yet been fully revealed. Overall, this verse serves as a source of encouragement and hope for believers, reminding them of their future destiny as children of God and their ultimate likeness to Christ.

Beloved, the theological interpretation of the verse '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.' emphasizes the concept of believers being considered children of God. This spiritual adoption into God's family is marked by the transformation believers undergo, becoming more like Christ. The verse speaks of the future hope believers have in being conformed to the image of Christ when He returns. This transformation includes being purified and perfected, free from sin and fully reflecting Christ's character. The verse also highlights the expectation of seeing Christ face to face, fully knowing Him as He is. This speaks to the ultimate fulfillment of believers' relationship with God, who will be made like Christ in both character and appearance.