1 John 2:23 (KJV)

What does 1 John 2:23 mean?

1 John 2:23 teaches that anyone who rejects or denies the Son (Jesus) does not have a relationship with the Father (God), but anyone who openly acknowledges the Son has a relationship with the Father as well. The verse draws a clear connection between knowing Jesus and knowing God.

The apostle John is writing to early Christians who were facing confusion and false teachings about Jesus’ identity. He emphasizes that belief in Jesus as the Son is essential for a genuine relationship with God the Father. This statement is meant to guard the community against teachings that separate Jesus from God or claim you can know God without accepting Jesus.

The Greek behind 1 John 2:23

• "denieth" (ἀρνέομαι, arneomai): This word means to refuse, reject, or disown. In this verse, it highlights an active rejection of Jesus, not just a lack of knowledge.
• "acknowledgeth" (ὁμολογέω, homologeō): This word means to confess, declare, or openly agree. It suggests a public and genuine acceptance of Jesus, not just private belief.
• "hath" (ἔχω, echō): This word means to have, hold, or possess. Here, it points to having a real, ongoing relationship or connection, not just a distant association.

Why 1 John 2:23 matters

• 1 John 2:23 clarifies that belief in Jesus is not optional for knowing God; the two are inseparable according to John’s teaching.
• The verse addresses misunderstandings in the early church, where some claimed to know God while denying Jesus’ role or identity.
• This verse ties into the larger theme of 1 John, which is about holding to the truth about Jesus and guarding against teachings that would separate faith in Christ from a relationship with God.