In this writing, focusing on the first epistle of John, chapter 5, verse 20, we are introduced to one of the most profound and essential themes of the Christian faith: the knowledge of eternal life. The apostle John, nearing the end of his letter, does not present speculation or philosophical reflection, but a firm and confident declaration rooted in divine revelation. His words are intended to give assurance to believers, grounding their faith in objective truth rather than subjective feeling. This teaching has endured through the centuries and remains fully relevant to our lives today.
John’s concern throughout his epistle is that believers may know with certainty what they possess in Christ. He repeatedly emphasizes the word “know,” highlighting that Christian faith is not blind or uncertain. Eternal life is not a vague hope or distant promise, but a present reality for those who are united to Christ. This knowledge does not come from human reasoning, but from divine revelation given through the Son of God.
Through this reflection, we understand that knowing Jesus involves far more than intellectual acknowledgment. To know Christ is to enter into a living relationship with Him, one that is nourished and sustained by His sacred Word. Immersing ourselves in Scripture allows us to grow in understanding, faith, and obedience. The Word of God reveals who Christ is, what He has done, and what He continues to do in the lives of His people.
This knowledge initiates a process of spiritual transformation. As we draw closer to Christ, we are conformed more fully to His image. Jesus is not merely the giver of eternal life; He is eternal life itself. To be united with Him is to participate in the life that comes from God. This truth provides profound comfort and stability, especially in a world marked by uncertainty and change.
John uses language that leaves no room for ambiguity. He affirms that as children of God, eternal life dwells within us. This indwelling life is not dependent on our circumstances, achievements, or emotional state. It is rooted in God’s promise and Christ’s finished work. Because eternal life resides within us, we are called to persevere in faith, trusting God even when trials arise.
Faith, in this sense, is not passive belief but active reliance on God. Trusting in God becomes the source of our strength, enabling us to endure hardship and resist temptation. John’s words are meant to reassure believers that their security rests not in their own consistency, but in God’s faithfulness.
Furthermore, John addresses an important implication of belonging to God: those who are of the Lord depart from sin. This does not mean that believers achieve sinless perfection in this life, but that their orientation has fundamentally changed. They are no longer bound to sin as their master, because they are now bound to God through Christ.
This transformation naturally manifests itself in good works. These works are not the cause of salvation, but the fruit of it. A life rooted in Christ produces obedience, love, and a desire to honor God. John emphasizes the propagation of the gospel of Christ, love for fellow believers, and the rejection of evil actions inspired by the enemy. These are marks of genuine faith.
And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.
1 John 5:20
This verse stands as a powerful summary of John’s message. He begins with certainty: “And we know.” This confidence is not arrogance, but assurance grounded in divine revelation. The Son of God has come—this affirms the incarnation. Jesus truly entered human history, revealing God fully and definitively.
John then states that Christ has given us understanding. Spiritual knowledge is a gift. Fallen humanity cannot comprehend divine truth apart from God’s initiative. Through Christ, our minds are enlightened so that we may know “him that is true.” This phrase refers to the one true God, in contrast to false gods and deceptive philosophies.
The apostle goes even further by declaring that believers are “in him that is true.” This language expresses union with God. To be “in Christ” is to share in His life, righteousness, and inheritance. This union is the foundation of eternal life. John concludes with a bold statement of Christ’s divinity: “This is the true God, and eternal life.” Jesus is not merely a messenger of life; He is life itself.
In the verses surrounding this declaration, John emphasizes that everyone born of God is called to guard themselves against sin. This exhortation flows naturally from the reality of eternal life within. By keeping ourselves aligned with God’s will, we prevent the enemy from exerting his influence over us. Sin dulls spiritual sensitivity, but obedience preserves clarity and fellowship with God.
John also reminds us of a sobering truth: the world lies under evil influence. This does not mean that the physical world itself is evil, but that fallen systems and values are often opposed to God. Because of this, believers must remain vigilant. Spiritual complacency opens the door to deception.
Our identity as children of God carries responsibility. We are called to safeguard God’s teachings in our hearts, meditating on His Word and applying it to our lives. This guarding of truth helps us resist worldly fallacies and false doctrines that seek to undermine faith.
Perseverance is a recurring theme in John’s epistle. Knowing that eternal life resides within us encourages steadfastness. We are not alone in our spiritual journey. God’s Spirit dwells in us, guiding, correcting, and strengthening us. When confusion arises, we seek the Lord’s help, trusting that He will lead us in truth.
This passage ultimately calls believers to live with assurance and discernment. Assurance comes from knowing that eternal life is already ours in Christ. Discernment comes from recognizing the dangers of false teaching and worldly influence. Together, these qualities enable us to walk faithfully before God.
John’s teaching invites us to examine our own lives. Do we truly know Christ, not merely in name, but in relationship? Are we immersing ourselves in His Word and allowing it to shape our thoughts and actions? Are we living as those who possess eternal life, demonstrating obedience, love, and perseverance?
May we take these words to heart. Let us rejoice in the certainty of eternal life given to us through Jesus Christ. Let us guard ourselves from sin and remain alert in a world influenced by evil. And let us continue to grow in the knowledge of the true God, walking faithfully until the day we see Him face to face.