1 John 4:3

KJV

And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that [spirit] of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} every {G3956} spirit {G4151} that {G3739} confesseth {G3670} not {G3361} that Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547} is come {G2064} in {G1722} the flesh {G4561} is {G2076} not {G3756} of {G1537} God {G2316}: and {G2532} this {G5124} is {G2076} that spirit of antichrist {G500}, whereof {G3739} ye have heard {G191} that {G3754} it should come {G2064}; and even {G2532} now {G3568} already {G2235} is it {G2076} in {G1722} the world {G2889}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and every spirit which does not acknowledge Yeshua is not from God — in fact, this is the spirit of the Anti-Messiah. You have heard that he is coming. Well, he’s here now, in the world already!

Berean Standard Bible

and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and which is already in the world at this time.

American Standard Version

and every spirit that confesseth not Jesus is not of God: and this is the spirit of the antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it cometh; and now it is in the world already.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First John 4:3 serves as a critical theological litmus test for discerning true spiritual teaching from deceptive error, particularly concerning the person of Jesus Christ. It unequivocally states that any spirit or teaching that denies the literal, historical reality of Jesus Christ's incarnation—His coming in the flesh—is not from God. Instead, such a spirit is identified as belonging to the "spirit of antichrist," a malevolent force already active in the world, opposing Christ and His foundational truth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of John's broader exhortation to "test the spirits" found in [1 John 4:1-6](/1_john/4-1-6 "1 John 4:1-6 - Testing the Spirits"). Immediately preceding this verse, [1 John 4:1](/1_john/4-1 "1 John 4:1 - Test the Spirits") issues the command to discern, because "many false prophets are gone out into the world." John then provides the criterion for this discernment in [1 John 4:2](/1_john/4-2 "1 John 4:2 - The Spirit of God Confesses Jesus") and [1 John 4:3](/1_john/4-3 "1 John 4:3 - The Spirit of Antichrist Denies Jesus"). The passage emphasizes the ongoing spiritual battle between truth and falsehood, urging believers to rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment, as those who are "of God" will listen to the apostles' teaching ([1 John 4:6](/1_john/4-6 "1 John 4:6 - We Are of God")). The entire letter of [1 John](/1_john "1 John - Assurance and Fellowship with God") aims to provide assurance to believers regarding their salvation and to guard them against prevalent heresies that threatened the integrity of the gospel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early church, particularly in the regions where John ministered (likely Asia Minor), faced significant challenges from emergent heretical movements. One prominent threat was a nascent form of Gnosticism, specifically a doctrine known as Docetism. Docetists believed that matter was inherently evil and spirit was good. Consequently, they found it inconceivable that a divine being like Christ could genuinely inhabit a physical body. They taught that Jesus only *appeared* to have a human body, or that His divine spirit temporarily inhabited the human Jesus at His baptism and departed before His crucifixion. This denial of Christ's true humanity undermined the very foundation of the gospel, including His atoning death and bodily resurrection. John's strong declaration in [1 John 4:3](/1_john/4-3 "1 John 4:3 - The Spirit of Antichrist Denies Jesus") directly confronts this specific theological error, asserting the absolute necessity of believing in the genuine incarnation of Jesus Christ.
* **Key Themes:** The central theme in [1 John 4:3](/1_john/4-3 "1 John 4:3 - The Incarnation as a Litmus Test") is the **Incarnation as a Litmus Test**. The truth that "Jesus Christ is come in the flesh" is presented as the non-negotiable standard by which all spiritual claims must be measured. This doctrine, that the eternal Son of God took on full human nature, is foundational to Christian theology. Another key theme is **Discernment**, as believers are called to actively "test the spirits" ([1 John 4:1](/1_john/4-1 "1 John 4:1 - Test the Spirits")) to distinguish between divine truth and demonic deception. The verse also introduces the concept of the **Spirit of Antichrist**, identifying a pervasive spiritual force that opposes Christ and seeks to undermine His identity and work. This "spirit" is not merely a future individual but an active, present influence in the world, manifesting in various forms of anti-Christian teaching and rebellion against God's truth, as John also notes in [1 John 2:18](/1_john/2-18 "1 John 2:18 - Many Antichrists").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Spirit (Greek, _pneûma'_):** (G4151) This word, derived from a root meaning "a current of air" or "breath," refers here to a spiritual entity or influence. In the context of [1 John 4:3](/1_john/4-3 "1 John 4:3 - The Spirit of Antichrist Denies Jesus"), it denotes a spiritual power or disposition, whether divine (the Holy Spirit) or demonic (a false spirit, the spirit of antichrist). John uses it to describe the animating force behind prophetic utterances or doctrinal positions, emphasizing that such forces must be tested for their origin and alignment with God's truth.
* **Confesseth (Greek, _homologéō'_):** (G3670) Meaning "to assent" or "to acknowledge," this term signifies a public declaration of agreement or belief. In this verse, it refers to the crucial act of affirming the truth about Jesus Christ. To "confess" that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh means to openly and unequivocally acknowledge His true humanity and divinity, a core tenet of orthodox Christian faith. The negation ("confesseth not") indicates a deliberate refusal or denial of this fundamental truth.
* **Antichrist (Greek, _antíchristos'_):** (G500) This compound word, used exclusively by John in the New Testament, describes an "opponent of the Messiah." The prefix "anti-" can mean "against" or "in place of." Therefore, "antichrist" refers to one who stands in opposition to Christ, seeking to undermine His authority, identity, or work, or one who attempts to assume Christ's rightful place. John clarifies that this is not merely a future figure but a pervasive "spirit" or influence already at work in the world, actively denying the truth of Christ's incarnation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God":** This is the core diagnostic statement. John declares that any spiritual teaching or influence (the "spirit") that fails to acknowledge or openly denies the historical and physical reality of Jesus Christ's incarnation—that He truly became human, taking on flesh and blood—does not originate from God. This establishes the incarnation as the definitive test for distinguishing between divine truth and spiritual deception.
* **"and this is that [spirit] of antichrist":** The spirit that denies the incarnation is explicitly identified as the "spirit of antichrist." This signifies a spiritual force that is fundamentally opposed to Christ and His redemptive work. It is not merely a human error but an active, malevolent spiritual influence.
* **"whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world":** John reminds his readers that they had been forewarned about the coming of the antichrist (or the spirit of antichrist). Crucially, he emphasizes that this deceptive force is not merely a future threat but is "even now already... in the world," actively at work in their present context, manifesting through false teachers and their doctrines. This underscores the urgency of discernment and vigilance for believers.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Contrast** is a primary device, sharply delineating between what is "of God" and what is "not of God." This creates a clear theological binary, leaving no room for ambiguity regarding the source of truth versus error. The concept of the "spirit of antichrist" functions as potent **Symbolism**, representing not just a singular individual but a pervasive, malevolent spiritual force that opposes Christ and seeks to undermine His identity and mission. This symbolic representation allows John to describe a broad range of anti-Christian ideologies and influences. Furthermore, the entire verse acts as a **Litmus Test** or criterion, providing a simple yet profound theological standard by which the authenticity of any spiritual claim or prophetic utterance can be evaluated. The denial of the incarnation is the acid test that exposes the spirit of antichrist.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound theological significance of [1 John 4:3](/1_john/4-3 "1 John 4:3 - The Incarnation's Centrality") lies in its unwavering defense of the incarnation, a doctrine central to the entirety of Christian faith. The belief that God the Son truly became human, without ceasing to be God, is not a peripheral detail but the very foundation upon which salvation rests. If Jesus did not truly come "in the flesh," then His atoning death on the cross was not a real human sacrifice, His resurrection was not a real bodily victory over death, and His identification with humanity in its fallen state is nullified. Denying the incarnation, therefore, is not merely a theological quibble but a direct assault on the person and work of Christ, rendering the gospel powerless. This verse underscores the critical importance of sound Christology for genuine faith and spiritual discernment.

* [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")
* [1 John 2:18](/1_john/2-18 "1 John 2:18 - Many Antichrists Have Come")
* [2 John 1:7](/2_john/1-7 "2 John 1:7 - Deceivers Denying Christ's Coming")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world saturated with diverse spiritual claims and shifting truths, [1 John 4:3](/1_john/4-3 "1 John 4:3 - Applying the Test of the Incarnation") remains a timeless and vital guide for believers. It calls us to a posture of vigilant discernment, reminding us that not every spiritual manifestation or teaching originates from God. The core test provided—the confession of Jesus Christ's true incarnation—serves as an unchanging standard against which all doctrines and movements must be measured. This means holding firmly to the biblical truth that Jesus was fully God and fully man, a reality that grounds our salvation and understanding of God's redemptive plan. We are challenged to critically evaluate teachings that diminish Christ's unique identity, His sufficiency, or the historical reality of His life, death, and resurrection. Furthermore, recognizing that the "spirit of antichrist" is an ongoing force in the world should motivate us to be rooted deeply in biblical truth, to pray for discernment, and to boldly proclaim the full truth of who Jesus is, thereby countering the deceptions that seek to lead people astray from the one true Savior.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does a clear understanding of Jesus' full humanity and full divinity impact your faith and worship?**
* **What contemporary teachings or spiritual trends might subtly or overtly deny that "Jesus Christ is come in the flesh," and how can believers discern them?**
* **In what ways can we actively "test the spirits" in our own lives and communities today, beyond just intellectual assent to doctrine?**

### FAQ
**What does "Jesus Christ is come in the flesh" specifically mean?**

Answer: This phrase refers to the doctrine of the Incarnation, meaning that Jesus Christ, who is eternally God, truly and fully took on human nature, including a physical body and a human soul, without ceasing to be God. It emphasizes His genuine humanity, distinguishing Him from mere spiritual appearances or a temporary indwelling of divinity in a human. This truth is crucial because it affirms that God Himself entered human history, experienced human life, and offered a real, physical sacrifice for sin on the cross, making salvation possible for real human beings. As [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") states, "the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us."

**Who or what is the "spirit of antichrist" that John mentions?**

Answer: The "spirit of antichrist" refers to a spiritual force or influence that opposes Christ and His truth. While the New Testament also speaks of a future individual "Antichrist" (e.g., [2 Thessalonians 2:3-10](/2_thessalonians/2-3-10 "2 Thessalonians 2:3-10 - The Man of Lawlessness")), John emphasizes that this anti-Christian spirit is already active in the world. It manifests in any teaching, ideology, or attitude that denies the true identity of Jesus Christ, particularly His incarnation, or that seeks to usurp His unique role as Savior and Lord. As [1 John 2:18](/1_john/2-18 "1 John 2:18 - Many Antichrists") notes, "many antichrists" were already present in John's day, indicating a pervasive, ongoing spiritual battle against the truth of Christ.

**How is denying the incarnation connected to salvation?**

Answer: Denying the incarnation directly undermines the basis of salvation. If Jesus did not truly come "in the flesh," then He was not truly human, and therefore could not genuinely represent humanity in His atoning sacrifice. A non-physical or illusory Christ could not have truly suffered, died, and risen bodily, which are essential components of the gospel message ([1 Corinthians 15:3-4](/1_corinthians/15-3-4 "1 Corinthians 15:3-4 - Christ Died and Rose")). The Incarnation ensures that Jesus is both fully God (able to provide a perfect, infinite sacrifice) and fully man (able to represent humanity and experience death). Without a genuine incarnation, the entire redemptive work of Christ becomes null and void, leaving humanity without a means of reconciliation with God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[1 John 4:3](/1_john/4-3 "1 John 4:3 - Christ's Incarnation as the Gospel's Core") finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the very person and work of Jesus Christ, as the verse directly points to the pivotal truth of His incarnation. The "spirit of antichrist" is defined by its denial of Christ's coming in the flesh, which highlights the absolute necessity of this truth for the entire redemptive narrative. Jesus, as the Son of God, truly condescended to take on human nature, not merely appearing human but becoming fully man, "born of a woman, born under the law" ([Galatians 4:4](/galatians/4-4 "Galatians 4:4 - God Sent His Son")). This genuine humanity was essential for Him to live a sinless life as humanity's representative, to suffer a real death on the cross as the atoning sacrifice for sins, and to experience a bodily resurrection, conquering death for all who believe ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - Christ Died for Us") and [1 Corinthians 15:20-22](/1_corinthians/15-20-22 "1 Corinthians 15:20-22 - Christ is Risen, the Firstfruits")). The truth of [1 John 4:3](/1_john/4-3 "1 John 4:3 - The Incarnation's Redemptive Purpose") thus serves as a bulwark against any teaching that would diminish the efficacy of Christ's work by denying His true identity, thereby safeguarding the gospel's power and ensuring that our faith is placed in the real, historical, incarnate Savior who alone can reconcile us to God ([Colossians 1:19-20](/colossians/1-19-20 "Colossians 1:19-20 - Reconciliation Through Christ")).

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 2:22

Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son.

2 John 1:7

¶ For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.

1 John 2:18

¶ Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time.

2 Thessalonians 2:3

¶ Let no man deceive you by any means: for [that day shall not come], except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;

2 Thessalonians 2:8

And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: