Meaning of 1 John 5:19

This verse from 1 John 5:19 asserts a dual reality for believers: an internal certainty of their spiritual identity as children of God, and an external awareness of the pervasive influence of evil in the world. The "we know" signifies not a mere intellectual assent but a deep, experiential assurance rooted in the Holy Spirit's testimony and the evidence of God's work in their lives. This assurance stands in stark contrast to the spiritual condition of the "whole world," which is depicted as being under the dominion of "the evil one" (Satan). This is not to say that believers are immune to the world's temptations or that God's sovereignty is diminished, but rather that the prevailing spiritual atmosphere outside of Christ is characterized by opposition to God and his purposes, orchestrated by a malevolent spiritual force.

Context and Background

The author of 1 John, traditionally identified as the Apostle John, wrote this epistle to a community of believers who were grappling with theological errors and moral deviations. False teachers had emerged, questioning fundamental truths about Jesus Christ and the nature of salvation, likely leading to a sense of confusion and insecurity among the congregation. In this context, John repeatedly emphasizes the marks of genuine faith: belief in Jesus as the Son of God, obedience to God's commands, love for one another, and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. Chapter 5, in particular, culminates in a series of affirmations about the certainty of salvation and the distinguishing characteristics of God's children. The contrast between the children of God and the world under the evil one serves to clarify the spiritual boundaries and the distinct identity of those who belong to Christ.

Key Themes and Messages

Two central themes are interwoven in this verse: divine sonship and spiritual warfare. The assurance of being "children of God" is a foundational tenet of Christian identity, highlighting a redeemed relationship with God through Christ. This relationship grants believers a secure position and an inheritance. The second theme, the world being "under the control of the evil one," underscores the reality of spiritual opposition. Satan is presented as an active, albeit ultimately defeated, adversary whose influence seeks to mislead, corrupt, and alienate humanity from God. This phrase does not imply that God has relinquished his ultimate authority, but rather that Satan holds a significant degree of sway over the unredeemed human system and its values.

Spiritual Significance and Application

The spiritual significance of 1 John 5:19 lies in its call to both secure confidence and discernment. Believers are encouraged to rest in the certainty of their adoption into God's family, finding solace and strength in this intimate relationship. This assurance should fuel their obedience and love. Simultaneously, the verse calls for a sober awareness of the spiritual landscape. Understanding that the world system often operates under the influence of the evil one equips believers to navigate its temptations, to resist its allurements, and to distinguish between God's ways and the world's. This discernment is crucial for maintaining spiritual purity and for effectively engaging in evangelism and discipleship.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse fits seamlessly within the overarching biblical narrative of God's redemptive plan. From the fall of humanity in Genesis, where sin and its consequences, including Satan's influence, entered the world, to the ultimate triumph of Christ prophesied throughout Scripture, the Bible consistently depicts a cosmic struggle between good and evil. Jesus' ministry itself was characterized by confronting and overcoming the power of Satan, as seen in his temptations in the wilderness and his casting out of demons. The New Testament epistles, particularly those of Paul and John, frequently address the ongoing spiritual conflict and the believer's victory in Christ. 1 John 5:19 acts as a concise summary of this ongoing reality.

Analogies

One analogy to understand this verse is that of a royal family within a hostile kingdom. The children of God are like princes and princesses who, by birthright through their King (God), have a secure place in the royal palace and an assured inheritance. However, they live in a kingdom currently infiltrated and largely controlled by a usurper (the evil one). This usurper influences the laws, customs, and general atmosphere of the kingdom, making it dangerous and deceptive for those who are not of the royal bloodline. The royal children, though living within this hostile territory, carry the authority and protection of their true King and are called to live according to his decrees, distinct from the kingdom's prevailing chaos.

Another analogy is that of citizens of heaven living in a foreign land. Believers are citizens of God's eternal kingdom, a realm of righteousness and peace. Yet, they are currently sojourning in a world that is largely governed by principles alien to heaven, often manipulated by a spiritual enemy. Their citizenship in heaven grants them a distinct identity, privileges, and ultimate security, even while they must contend with the pervasive negative influences of their temporary earthly dwelling.

Relation to Other Verses

• John 8:44: Jesus tells the unbelieving Jews, "You belong to your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of lies." This directly supports the idea of the world being under the evil one's control, as it describes the origin of lies and murder rooted in the devil.
• Romans 12:2: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." This verse echoes the distinction made in 1 John 5:19, urging believers to avoid conforming to the world's patterns, implicitly acknowledging that these patterns are often influenced by the "evil one."
• Ephesians 6:12: "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." This passage explicitly details the nature of the spiritual warfare hinted at in 1 John, confirming the existence of opposing spiritual forces.
• 1 John 4:4: "You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." This verse offers comfort and encouragement by highlighting the indwelling power of God that enables believers to overcome the world's influences, directly relating to the assurance of being children of God.
• John 16:33: Jesus says, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." This verse mirrors the dual reality presented in 1 John 5:19 – acknowledging the world's troubles stemming from the evil one's influence, while simultaneously proclaiming Christ's victory and offering peace to believers.