1 John 3:4 (KJV)

What does 1 John 3:4 mean?

1 John 3:4 says that anyone who commits sin is also breaking the law, because sin is, by definition, the breaking of the law. This verse directly links the idea of sin to going against what God’s law requires.

The apostle John is writing to early Christian believers, clarifying what sin actually is. In this context, John wants his readers to understand that sin is not just a mistake or a slip, but a real violation of God’s standards. By defining sin as lawlessness, John sets up a clear contrast between living according to God’s ways and living in opposition to them.

The Greek behind 1 John 3:4

• ἁμαρτία (hamartia, G266): This word means "sin" and often carries the sense of missing the mark or falling short of a standard. Here, it is directly tied to breaking God’s law, not just making an error.
• ἀνομία (anomia, G458): Translated as "law" or "lawlessness," this word means a disregard or rejection of law. John uses it to show that sin is not just a moral failing but an active opposition to God’s order.
• ποιέω (poieō, G4160): Translated here as "committeth" and "transgresseth," this verb means "to do" or "to practice." The repeated use suggests that sin is not just a one-time act but can be a pattern or practice.

Why 1 John 3:4 matters

• This verse clears up any confusion about what sin actually is by giving a straightforward definition: sin equals lawlessness.
• John’s emphasis helps his readers see that sin is serious because it is a direct violation of God’s revealed will, not just a personal failing.
• Understanding this definition helps make sense of the rest of the chapter, where John contrasts the lives of those who follow God’s ways with those who do not.