Book of 1 John - Chapter 5 - Verse 19

John, the author of this letter, is emphasizing the stark contrast between believers who are of God and the rest of the world which lies in wickedness. By affirming that believers are of God, he is reassuring them of their identity and status as children of God. This serves as a reminder that as followers of Christ, they are called to live in a manner that reflects their heavenly citizenship and to resist the sinful ways of the world. The phrase "the whole world lieth in wickedness" underscores the pervasive nature of sin and evil in the world, highlighting the need for believers to remain grounded in their faith and to be a light in the darkness. This verse serves as a call to action for believers to continue living in accordance with God's will and to stand firm in their faith despite the prevailing wickedness in the world.

One theological interpretation of the verse "And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness," highlights the concept of spiritual separation between believers and the world. Believers are seen as belonging to God, walking in His ways and living by His principles, while the world is characterized by sin, rebellion, and evil. This verse emphasizes the fallen state of the world due to sin and the need for believers to remain steadfast in their faith despite the prevailing wickedness around them.

Additionally, the phrase "whole world lieth in wickedness" can be studied further to gain a deeper understanding of the original Greek words used in the text. In some translations, the word "lieth" is translated as "lies" or "is under the sway of." This highlights the pervasive nature of wickedness in the world and serves as a reminder of the spiritual battle believers face daily. By delving into the nuances of the original language, we can grasp the full impact of the verse and apply its message to our daily lives as followers of Christ.