Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.

1 JOHN 3:1KJV
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1 John 3:1 (KJV)

What does 1 John 3:1 mean?

1 John 3:1 describes the extraordinary love that God the Father has shown by allowing people to be called His children. The verse explains that this special relationship with God is not recognized or understood by the world, because the world did not recognize God Himself.

The apostle John is writing to early Christians, encouraging them by highlighting the unique privilege of being called "sons of God." John points out that this identity comes from God's own decision and love, not from anything people have done. The verse also sets up a contrast: those who belong to God are often misunderstood or even rejected by the wider world, just as Jesus was.

The Greek behind 1 John 3:1

  • ἀγάπη (agapē, G26): This word for "love" refers to a deep, self-giving, unconditional love. John uses it to emphasize the quality and depth of the Father's love, not just affection but a love that acts for the good of others.
  • τέκνα (tekna, G5043): Translated "sons" (or more literally "children"), this word highlights a close, family-like relationship with God. It suggests belonging and being part of God's household, not just being followers or servants.
  • ἔδωκεν (edōken, G1325): This word means "bestowed" or "given." It stresses that being called God's children is a gift from God, not something earned.
  • κόσμος (kosmos, G2889): Translated "world," this word often refers to human society apart from God. Here, it points out the difference between those who know God and those who do not, explaining why believers may feel out of place.

Why 1 John 3:1 matters

  • 1 John 3:1 clears up the idea that being God's child is something people can achieve on their own; John stresses it is a gift given out of God's love.
  • The verse highlights the reason Christians may feel misunderstood or rejected by society: their identity is rooted in a relationship with God that the world does not recognize.
  • This verse connects to the larger theme in 1 John about the difference between those who belong to God and those who do not, preparing the reader for the following verses about living as God's children.

Where else these words appear

“manner” Greek G4217 · used in 6 verses

  • Matthew 8:27 But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!
  • Mark 13:1 And as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples saith unto him, Master, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here!
  • Luke 7:39 Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.

“sons” Greek G5043 · used in 91 verses

  • Matthew 2:18 In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.
  • Luke 18:29 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake,
  • Ephesians 6:4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

“love” Greek G26 · used in 106 verses

  • Matthew 24:12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.
  • 2 Corinthians 13:14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. The second epistle to the Corinthians was written from Philippi, a city of Macedonia, by Titus and Lucas.
  • 1 Timothy 6:11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

“called” Greek G2564 · used in 138 verses

  • Matthew 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
  • Luke 7:39 Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.
  • Romans 9:25 As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved.