1 John 3:4

KJV

¶ Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.

KJV (with Strong's)

Whosoever {G3956} committeth {G4160} sin {G266} transgresseth {G4160}{G458} also {G2532} the law {G458}: for {G2532} sin {G266} is {G2076} the transgression of the law {G458}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Everyone who keeps sinning is violating Torah — indeed, sin is violation of Torah.

Berean Standard Bible

Everyone who practices sin practices lawlessness as well. Indeed, sin is lawlessness.

American Standard Version

Every one that doeth sin doeth also lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle John, in 1 John 3:4, provides a foundational and stark definition of sin, declaring it to be the "transgression of the law." This verse unequivocally links sin not merely to an imperfection or mistake, but to an active violation of God's revealed will and moral standards, establishing a clear biblical understanding that underpins the epistle's subsequent exhortations regarding righteous living and the nature of true sonship in Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a crucial section of 1 John (chapters 2-3) where the apostle rigorously distinguishes between those who are genuinely "born of God" and those who remain aligned with "the world." John's primary concern in this epistle is to combat false teachings (likely proto-Gnostic ideas) that denied the true humanity of Christ, minimized the seriousness of sin, or claimed spiritual perfection apart from ethical obedience. Having just stated that "everyone who practices righteousness has been born of Him" ([1 John 2:29](/1_john/2-29 "1 John 2:29 - Practicing Righteousness")), John then transitions in chapter 3 to elaborate on the implications of being a child of God, emphasizing that such a divine birth should lead to a life free from the *practice* of sin. Verse 4 serves as the critical definitional pivot, clarifying precisely what this "sin" is that believers are called to abandon, setting the stage for the powerful contrasts between the children of God and the children of the devil in [1 John 3:7-10](/1_john/3-7-10 "1 John 3:7-10 - Children of God vs. Children of the Devil").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** John's epistle was likely written towards the end of the first century, addressing Christian communities facing internal challenges from false teachers. These teachers often promoted a dualistic worldview, separating the spiritual from the material, which could lead to a devaluation of ethical conduct. Some might have argued that since the spirit was pure, the actions of the body were irrelevant, or that true "knowledge" (gnosis) superseded the need for moral law. John directly confronts this antinomian tendency by re-establishing the objective nature of sin as a violation of God's law. In a world where various philosophical and religious systems offered differing moral codes, John grounds Christian ethics firmly in God's revealed will, emphasizing that true fellowship with God necessitates adherence to His righteous standards, a concept deeply rooted in the Old Testament understanding of covenant and law.
* **Key Themes:** The central theme of [1 John 3:4](/1_john/3-4 "1 John 3:4 - Definition of Sin") is the **Definition of Sin**. John provides an unambiguous, concise, and biblically profound definition: sin is "the transgression of the law." This definition is crucial because it roots sin not in human imperfection or mere mistake, but in a direct, volitional act against God's revealed will. This leads to the second key theme: **God's Law as the Standard**. The verse implicitly affirms the existence and authority of God's moral law, which serves as the immutable benchmark for human conduct. This law, encompassing divine commands and ethical principles, defines righteousness and exposes unrighteousness, as seen in passages like [Romans 7:7](/romans/7-7 "Romans 7:7 - The Law Reveals Sin"). Finally, the theme of **Transgression and Disobedience** is highlighted by the Greek term *anomia*, which denotes "lawlessness" or a state of being without law, or actively opposing it. It underscores that sin is not passive but an active crossing of a divine boundary, a rebellion against God's established order. This understanding is vital for appreciating John's subsequent assertion that those born of God do not "practice sin" ([1 John 3:9](/1_john/3-9 "1 John 3:9 - Not Practicing Sin")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **sin (Greek, _hamartía'_):** From *hamartanō*, meaning "to miss the mark." While the root suggests failing to hit a target, in this context, John's definition clarifies *what* the mark is: God's law. Thus, *hamartía* here is not merely an accidental missing but a deliberate or culpable deviation from God's standard. The provided Strong's data defines it as "a sin (properly abstract):--offence, sin(-ful)."
* **committeth (Greek, _poiéō'_):** This verb means "to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)." In the context of "committeth sin," it refers to the active engagement in sinful behavior. It implies a doing or performing of sin, not merely a passive state. The Strong's data includes "commit" and "do," emphasizing the active nature.
* **transgression of the law (Greek, _anomía'_):** From *anomos* (without law), this word signifies "illegality, i.e. violation of law or (genitive case) wickedness." It is more than just breaking a rule; it implies a state of lawlessness, a disregard for or rebellion against the law itself. John uses this term to define sin, emphasizing its essence as a direct affront to God's established order. The Strong's data includes "iniquity, X transgress(-ion of) the law, unrighteousness."

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Whosoever committeth sin":** This opening phrase establishes the subject of the statement, referring to anyone who actively engages in sinful behavior. The verb "committeth" (Greek *poiéō*) denotes an ongoing or habitual practice, not an isolated incident, setting the stage for John's later distinction between occasional sin and a lifestyle of sin.
* **"transgresseth also the law":** This clause provides the immediate consequence and nature of committing sin. To "transgress" (Greek *poiéō* again, used here with *anomía*) means to step over a boundary or violate a rule. The addition of "also" (Greek *kai*) emphasizes that committing sin is *simultaneously* an act of law-breaking. It is not merely a personal failing but an offense against a divine standard.
* **"for sin is the transgression of the law":** This concluding explanatory clause functions as a definitive statement, reiterating and solidifying the definition. The Greek word *anomía* (transgression of the law) is used here as a direct synonym for *hamartía* (sin). This is John's theological definition: sin, in its very essence, is lawlessness—a rebellion against or disregard for God's revealed will and moral order. This statement leaves no ambiguity about the nature and seriousness of sin.

#### Literary Devices
John employs several literary devices to convey his message with clarity and force. The most prominent is **Repetition**, specifically the reiteration of the phrase "transgression of the law" (Greek *anomía*) and the concept of "sin" (Greek *hamartía*). This repetition serves to emphasize and solidify the core definition, ensuring the reader grasps the profound connection between sin and lawlessness. John also uses **Definition**, providing a direct and unequivocal theological statement that clarifies the nature of sin. This definitional clarity is crucial for his argument against antinomian tendencies. Furthermore, there is an implied **Antithesis** throughout this section of 1 John, contrasting the life of sin (lawlessness) with the life of righteousness that characterizes those born of God. This stark contrast highlights the moral imperative for believers to live in obedience to God's law.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound definition of sin in [1 John 3:4](/1_john/3-4 "1 John 3:4 - Definition of Sin") resonates deeply with the broader biblical understanding of God's character and humanity's fallen state. By equating sin with "transgression of the law" (lawlessness), John underscores that sin is not a subjective failing but an objective offense against the holy and righteous nature of God, who is the ultimate Lawgiver. This highlights God's sovereignty and His moral authority over creation. It also emphasizes the seriousness of sin, moving beyond mere human imperfection to a state of rebellion against divine order. This definition aligns with the Old Testament concept of sin as breaking covenant and violating God's commands, and it sets the stage for understanding the necessity of Christ's atoning work as the one who takes away sin and fulfills the law.

* [Romans 3:20](/romans/3-20 "Romans 3:20 - The Law Brings Knowledge of Sin"): "Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin."
* [Romans 7:7](/romans/7-7 "Romans 7:7 - The Law Reveals Sin"): "What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet."
* [James 2:10](/james/2-10 "James 2:10 - Breaking One Law Breaks All"): "For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[1 John 3:4](/1_john/3-4 "1 John 3:4 - Definition of Sin") serves as a powerful call to serious self-examination and a renewed commitment to holiness for believers today. Understanding sin as lawlessness—a direct violation of God's revealed will—elevates its gravity beyond a mere mistake or imperfection. It compels us to recognize that every act of disobedience, every thought contrary to God's character, is an affront to His holy nature and His loving authority. This should not lead to despair, but to a profound appreciation for the grace of God in Christ, who alone can forgive and empower us to live in conformity to His law. It challenges us to actively pursue righteousness, not out of a legalistic burden, but out of a transformed heart that desires to honor the One who saved us from the power and penalty of sin. Our lives should increasingly reflect the character of God, marked by obedience and love, rather than the lawlessness of the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding sin as "transgression of the law" deepen your appreciation for God's holiness and justice?**
* **In what areas of your life might you be unknowingly or knowingly living in "lawlessness" against God's revealed will?**
* **How does this definition of sin motivate you to pursue a life of greater obedience and righteousness, relying on God's grace?**
* **What practical steps can you take to align your thoughts, words, and actions more closely with God's law?**

### FAQ
**What does "transgression of the law" specifically refer to in 1 John 3:4?**

Answer: In [1 John 3:4](/1_john/3-4 "1 John 3:4 - Definition of Sin"), "transgression of the law" (Greek *anomía*) refers to lawlessness or a violation of God's moral and ethical standards as revealed in Scripture. It encompasses not only breaking specific commands (like the Ten Commandments) but also living in a state of rebellion against God's divine order and authority. It implies a disregard for, or active opposition to, God's righteous will, rather than just an accidental failing. This definition highlights that sin is fundamentally an offense against God Himself.

**Does this verse imply that Christians can never sin, or that they are perfect?**

Answer: No, [1 John 3:4](/1_john/3-4 "1 John 3:4 - Definition of Sin") does not imply that Christians achieve sinless perfection. Earlier in the epistle, John explicitly states, "If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us" ([1 John 1:8](/1_john/1-8 "1 John 1:8 - Confessing Our Sins")). The emphasis in [1 John 3:4](/1_john/3-4 "1 John 3:4 - Definition of Sin") and the surrounding verses is on the *practice* or *habitual lifestyle* of sin. Those born of God do not *practice* lawlessness as their defining characteristic ([1 John 3:9](/1_john/3-9 "1 John 3:9 - Not Practicing Sin")), because Christ came to take away sins. While believers may still stumble and commit individual acts of sin, their new nature in Christ leads them to repent and strive for righteousness, rather than embracing a life of ongoing disobedience.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[1 John 3:4](/1_john/3-4 "1 John 3:4 - Definition of Sin"), by defining sin as "transgression of the law," powerfully underscores the necessity and glory of Christ's work. If sin is lawlessness, then humanity's deepest problem is a fundamental rebellion against God's holy standard, a condition from which we cannot free ourselves. Jesus Christ, however, is presented as the perfect solution to this pervasive lawlessness. He is the only one in whom "is no sin" ([1 John 3:5](/1_john/3-5 "1 John 3:5 - Jesus Takes Away Sins")), demonstrating perfect obedience to God's law. Moreover, He "was manifested to take away our sins" ([1 John 3:5](/1_john/3-5 "1 John 3:5 - Jesus Takes Away Sins")), meaning He came to deal with this very lawlessness. Through His atoning sacrifice, Christ bore the penalty for our transgression, allowing God to be "just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus" ([Romans 3:26](/romans/3-26 "Romans 3:26 - Justification by Faith")). Furthermore, Christ did not abolish the law but fulfilled it, and in His Spirit, He empowers believers to live in new obedience, so that "the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit" ([Romans 8:4](/romans/8-4 "Romans 8:4 - The Law Fulfilled in Christ")). Thus, Christ is not only the remedy for our past lawlessness but also the power for our present and future righteousness, transforming us from children of disobedience into children who increasingly reflect His perfect obedience.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 John 5:17

All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death.

Romans 3:20

Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law [is] the knowledge of sin.

Romans 4:15

Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, [there is] no transgression.

Numbers 15:31

Because he hath despised the word of the LORD, and hath broken his commandment, that soul shall utterly be cut off; his iniquity [shall be] upon him.

2 Corinthians 12:21

[And] lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and [that] I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.

1 John 3:8

He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.

1 John 3:9

Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.