And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.

1 JOHN 1:4KJV
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1 John 1:4 (KJV)

What does 1 John 1:4 mean?

1 John 1:4 says that the writer is sharing these words so that the readers’ joy may be complete and full. The purpose of writing is to bring a deep and lasting happiness to those who read and receive the message.

The apostle John is writing to a group of early Christians, explaining why he is sending this letter. John wants his readers to experience the fullness of joy that comes from understanding and sharing in the message about Jesus. This verse shows that Christian teaching is meant to bring real joy, not just information or rules.

The Greek behind 1 John 1:4

  • χαρά (chara, G5479): This word means "joy" or "gladness." The Greek here suggests a deep, lasting sense of happiness, not just a fleeting feeling. John is aiming for a complete and satisfying joy for his readers.
  • πεπληρωμένη (plērōthē, G4137): Translated as "full," this word often means "filled up" or "made complete." John is not talking about partial or temporary joy, but a joy that is brought to its fullest measure.

Why 1 John 1:4 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the Christian message is intended to bring joy, not just duty or obligation, correcting the idea that faith is only about rules or restrictions.
  • The emphasis on "full" joy connects to the earlier verses, where John talks about fellowship with God and with other believers, showing that joy is tied to these relationships.
  • By stating his purpose, John helps the reader see that the teachings in this letter are meant for their good and happiness, not just to instruct or correct them.

Where else these words appear

“joy” Greek G5479 · used in 57 verses

  • Matthew 2:10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.
  • John 16:21 A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world.
  • Philippians 1:25 And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith;

“be” Greek G5600 · used in 62 verses

  • Matthew 6:4 That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.
  • John 17:19 And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.
  • 2 Corinthians 1:9 But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead:

“full” Greek G4137 · used in 90 verses

  • Matthew 1:22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,
  • Luke 24:44 And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.
  • Acts 19:21 After these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome.