TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 1 John 5:10–13. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
In those words we may observe,
I.The privilege and stability of the real Christian:
He that believeth on the Son of God, hath been prevailed with unfeignedly to cleave to him for salvation, hath the witness in himself, Jo1 5:10. He hath not only the outward evidence that others have, but he hath in his own heart a testimony for Jesus Christ. He can allege what Christ and the truth of Christ have done for his soul and what he has seen and found in him. As,
1.He has deeply seen his sin, and guilt, and misery, and his abundant need of such a Saviour.
2.He has seen the excellency, beauty, and office of the Son of God, and the incomparable suitableness of such a Saviour to all his spiritual wants and sorrowful circumstances.
3.He sees and admires the wisdom and love of God in preparing and sending such a Saviour to deliver him from sin and hell, and to raise him to pardon, peace, and communion with God.
4.He has found and felt the power of the word and doctrine of Christ, wounding, humbling, healing, quickening, and comforting his soul.
5.He finds that the revelation of Christ, as it is the greatest discovery and demonstration of the love of God, so it is the most apt and powerful means of kindling, fomenting, and inflaming love to the holy blessed God.
6.He is born of God by the truth of Christ, as Jo1 5:1. He has a new heart and nature, a new love, disposition, and delight, and is not the man that formerly he was.
7.He finds yet such a conflict with himself, with sin, with the flesh, the world, and invisible wicked powers, as is described and provided for in the doctrine of Christ.
8.He finds such prospects and such strength afforded him by the faith of Christ, that he can despise and overcome the world, and travel on towards a better.
9.He finds what interest the Mediator has in heaven, by the audiency and prevalency of those prayers that are sent thither in his name, according to his will, and through his intercession.
10.He is begotten again to a lively hope, to a holy confidence in God, in his good-will and love, to a pleasant victory over terrors of conscience, dread of death and hell, to a comfortable prospect of life and immortality, being enriched with the earnest of the Spirit and sealed to the day of redemption. Such assurance has the gospel believer; he has a witness in himself. Christ is formed in him, and he is growing up to the fulness and perfection, or perfect image of Christ, in heaven.
II.The aggravation of the unbeliever's sin, the sin of unbelief:
He that believeth not God hath made him a liar. He does, in effect, give God the lie, because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son, Jo1 5:10. He must believe that God did not send his Son into the world, when he has given us such manifold evidence that he did, or that Jesus Christ was not the Son of God, when all that evidence relates to and terminates upon him, or that he sent his Son to deceive the world and to lead it into error and misery, or that he permits men to devise a religion which, in all the parts of it, is a pure, holy, heavenly, undefiled institution, and so worthy to be embraced by the reason of mankind, and yet is but a delusion and a lie, and then lends them his Spirit and power to recommend and obtrude it upon the world, which is to make God the Father, the author and abettor, of the lie.
III.The matter, the substance, or contents of all this divine testimony concerning Jesus Christ:
And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son, Jo1 5:11. This is the sum of the gospel. This is the sum and epitome of the whole record given us by all the aforesaid six witnesses.
1.That God hath given to us eternal life. He has designed it for us in his eternal purpose. He has prepared all the means that are necessary to bring us to it. He has made it over to us by his covenant and promise. And he actually confers a right and title thereto on all who believe on and actually embrace the Son of God. Then,
2.This life is in the Son. The Son is life; eternal life in his own essence and person, Joh 1:4; Jo1 1:2. He is eternal life to us, the spring of our spiritual and glorious life, Col 3:4. From him life is communicated to us, both here in heaven. And thereupon it must follow,
(1.)He that hath the Son hath life, Jo1 5:12. He that is united to the Son is united to life. He who hath a title to the Son hath a title to life, to eternal life. Such honour hath the Father put upon the Son: such honour must we put upon him too. We must come and kiss the Son, and we shall have life.
(2.)He that hath not the Son of God hath not life, Jo1 5:12. He continues under the condemnation of the law (Joh 3:36); he refuses the Son, who is life itself, who is the procurer of life, and the way to it; he provokes God to deliver him over to endless death for making him a liar, since he believes not this record that God hath given concerning his Son.
IV.The end and reason of the apostle's preaching this to believers.
1.For their satisfaction and comfort: These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, Jo1 5:13. Upon all this evidence, and these witnesses, it is but just and meet that there should be those who believe on the name of the Son of God. God increase their number! How much testimony from heaven has the world to answer for! And to three witnesses in heaven must the world be accountable. These believers have eternal life. They have it in the covenant of the gospel, in the beginning and first-fruits of it within them, and in their Lord and head in heaven. These believers may come to know that they have eternal life, and should be quickened, encouraged, and comforted, in the prospect of it: and they should value the scriptures, which are so much written for their consolation and salvation.
2.For their confirmation and progress in their holy faith: And that you may believe on the name of the Son of God (Jo1 5:13), may go on believing. Believers must persevere, or they do nothing. To withdraw from believing on the name of the Son of God is to renounce eternal life, and draw back unto perdition. Therefore the evidences of religion and the advantage of faith are to be presented to believers, in order to hearten and encourage them to persevere to the end.
Historical interpretation
Three Centuries of Reception
2 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
These things I have written to you, that you may know that you have eternal life, etc. That you may know, he says, that you may be certain of your future blessedness, who believe in Christ, so that you are not deceived by the fraud of those who deny that Jesus is the Son of God, and therefore assert that nothing will benefit those who have believed in His name. And the wondrous madness of heretics, who, though the Son of God is referred to throughout this entire Epistle, still assert that Christ is not the Son but a creature of God. Which in no way do they read, except when His humanity is mentioned.
I have written these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God: that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may believe in the name of the Son of God. And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of Him.
As if in a summary at the end, John repeats the aforementioned and says: I have written these things to you as heirs of eternal life: for these things would not be written for those who do not live according to the hope of eternal life: because neither should holy things be given to dogs nor pearls be scattered before pigs, (Matt. 7:6) for they do not deserve praise. Therefore, writing these things as heirs of eternal life, John briefly repeats, as we have said, suggesting to them what has already been said: first, that it is necessary to firmly believe in the name of the Son of God, that is, in the divine worship handed down to us by Him: for this is what the name of the Son of God signifies, as we have said, to whom, namely, the grace of sacred baptism prepares the way.
Then, since there is no other sign of this unquestionable faith except trust, which we find in Him through irreproachable faith, as we have also said before. Again, He has set a sign of this trust, that we are not to be frustrated in all that is asked of us. But since not everyone achieves all that they ask for, nor are they always heard in what they request, He adds: according to His will: revealing indeed that the one asking, outside the will of the Master, is not to be heard, in accordance with blessed James: for he also said, "You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives," (James 4:3) that is, as it does not benefit you. However, converting this sign into a clearer indication, John says: "And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of Him:" saying something like this: If we ask according to His will, He hears us: and if He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we make our requests according to His will, and we have in ourselves the requests that we have asked. These, however, are His kingdom and righteousness (Matt. 6:33): which He also commanded us to ask for. Having said this, He also clearly proposes something of what He wants us to ask according to God's will.
For the entire letter is largely about extolling love for the brother and expressing the desire that we keep our love for the brother incorrupt, John now says that this is one of his wills, that “if anyone sees his brother sinning not unto death, he should ask, and it will be given to him.” (1 Jn. 5:16) And what will be given? “Eternal life.” To whom? To those who “sin not unto death.”
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Summary
The Apostle John explicitly states his primary purpose in writing his First Epistle: to provide unwavering assurance of eternal life to those who have already placed their faith in the person and work of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. This verse serves as a powerful declaration that Christian faith is not based on uncertainty or mere hope, but on a confident, divinely-given knowledge of salvation, simultaneously encouraging a deepening and continuous trust in Christ.
Context
Literary Context
This verse, 1 John 5:13, functions as a pivotal summary statement and a clear declaration of purpose within John's epistle. It follows a profound theological argument in 1 John 5:6-12, where John emphasizes the threefold witness—the Spirit, the water (Christ's baptism), and the blood (Christ's crucifixion)—all testifying to the truth of Jesus Christ as the Son of God. This witness, John asserts, is God's own testimony concerning His Son, which is greater than any human testimony. Therefore, to believe in the Son is to possess this divine witness, and consequently, eternal life. Verse 13 then explicitly states that John wrote "these things" (referring to the preceding arguments and the entire letter's content) to ensure believers grasp this profound truth and live in its assurance. It sets the stage for the concluding remarks of the letter, which include confidence in prayer (1 John 5:14-15), a warning against sin unto death (1 John 5:16-17), and a final summary of core Christian certainties (1 John 5:18-21).
Historical & Cultural Context
The First Epistle of John was likely written in the late first century, addressing a community facing internal strife and external pressures, particularly from emerging false teachings. These heresies, often proto-Gnostic in nature, challenged the true humanity and divinity of Jesus Christ (known as Docetism, which denied Christ's physical body, and Cerinthianism, which separated the divine "Christ" from the human "Jesus"). Such teachings undermined the foundational truth of the Incarnation and the efficacy of Christ's atoning work, leading to spiritual confusion and a lack of assurance among believers. John's letter, therefore, serves as an apologetic and pastoral response, providing "tests" of authentic faith—righteous living, love for fellow believers, and correct Christology—to counter these errors and solidify the believers' understanding of who Jesus is and what it means to truly know Him. The emphasis on "knowing" (οἶδα, oida) in contrast to a mere intellectual "understanding" (γινώσκω, ginōskō) was crucial in a culture where "knowledge" (γνῶσις, gnōsis) was highly valued, especially by the Gnostics who claimed a secret or superior knowledge. John asserts that true, saving knowledge is found in Christ and is accessible to all who believe.
Key Themes
1 John 5:13 encapsulates several overarching themes of the epistle. Firstly, Assurance of Salvation is paramount; John desires that believers move beyond doubt to a confident "knowing" that they possess eternal life. This assurance is not based on human merit but on the divine witness concerning Christ. Secondly, the Person and Work of Jesus Christ is central, particularly the phrase "the name of the Son of God," which signifies His full divine identity, authority, and redemptive accomplishment. The entire letter hinges on a correct understanding and confession of Jesus as truly God and truly man, as seen in 1 John 4:2-3. Thirdly, the Purpose of Divine Revelation is highlighted; John explicitly states that he wrote "these things" so that believers might know and continue to believe. This underscores the Bible's role in clarifying spiritual truths and strengthening faith, echoing the profitability of Scripture for teaching and training in righteousness, as described in 2 Timothy 3:16-17. Finally, the theme of Ongoing Faith and Relationship is subtly present in the repetition of "believe on the name of the Son of God," implying not just an initial act of faith but a continuous, deepening reliance and trust in Christ. This continuous belief is intrinsically linked to "walking in the light" and "loving one another," which are recurring themes throughout the letter, as demonstrated in 1 John 1:7 and 1 John 4:7-8.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb signifies the deliberate and intentional act of composing a document. John uses it here to underscore that his epistle is not a casual reflection but a purposeful communication with a specific goal: to impart knowledge and strengthen faith. It highlights the divine inspiration and authority behind his words, as they are penned for the spiritual benefit of the recipients.
This word denotes a settled, experiential knowledge, a deep and certain conviction that comes from observation or acquaintance, rather than a mere intellectual grasp (which would typically be ginōskō). John desires believers to possess a confident, internal assurance of their spiritual reality, not just a hope or a theory. It implies a knowledge that transforms and grounds one's life.
This verb means to have faith in, to credit, or to entrust oneself to a person or thing. In the context of salvation, it signifies placing one's complete trust and reliance upon Jesus Christ. The verb appears twice in the verse, with the first instance (G4100 G5723) being a present participle ("you who are believing"), indicating an ongoing state of faith, and the second (G4100 G5725) a present subjunctive ("that you may believe"), implying a continuous, deepening, and active trust.
Verse Breakdown
"These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God;"
John begins by stating the direct recipients of his message: those who already possess faith in Jesus Christ, identified by His full divine authority and essence as "the Son of God." The phrase "these things" refers to the entire content of his epistle, including the tests of genuine faith (obedience, love, correct Christology) and the divine witness to Christ's identity. His writing is purposeful, directed at confirming and strengthening the faith of existing believers.
"that ye may know that ye have eternal life,"
This clause articulates the primary purpose of John's writing. The Greek verb for "know" (οἶδα, oida) implies a settled, experiential, and confident assurance. John desires that believers move beyond mere hope or intellectual assent to a deep, personal certainty that they already possess "eternal life." This "eternal life" (Greek, aiṓnios zōḗ G166 G2222) is not merely endless existence but a quality of life—the very life of God—that begins at the moment of faith and continues into eternity.
"and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God."
This second purpose clause, introduced by "and that," reveals a dual intention. While the first part focuses on assurance (knowing), this part emphasizes the deepening and perseverance of faith. The repetition of "believe on the name of the Son of God" suggests that John's writing aims not only to confirm initial belief but also to cultivate a continuous, active, and growing trust in Christ. It implies that true assurance leads to a more robust and unwavering faith, enabling believers to withstand false teachings and live consistently with their confession.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices that amplify its message. Repetition is prominently featured with the phrase "believe on the name of the Son of God," appearing at both the beginning and end of the verse. This serves to emphasize the foundational importance of faith in Christ's divine identity as the prerequisite for and ongoing means of possessing eternal life. It creates a sense of inclusio within the verse itself, framing John's stated purpose around the core tenet of Christological belief. The use of purpose clauses ("that ye may know," "and that ye may believe") clearly articulates John's specific intentions for his readers, transforming the epistle from a general theological discourse into a targeted pastoral communication. This direct declaration of purpose is a form of epistolary purpose statement, a common feature in ancient letters, which provides the reader with a clear understanding of the letter's aim. Furthermore, the verse demonstrates emphasis through direct address ("unto you") and the strong assertion of "these things have I written," underscoring the gravity and intentionality of John's message.
Theological and Thematic Connections
1 John 5:13 stands as a cornerstone of Christian assurance, profoundly connecting to the broader biblical narrative of God's redemptive plan. It underscores that salvation is not merely a future hope but a present reality, a gift of "eternal life" received through faith in Jesus Christ. This "knowing" is not based on human feeling or performance, but on the objective truth of God's testimony concerning His Son. The emphasis on "the name of the Son of God" highlights the absolute centrality of Christ's person and work as the sole basis for salvation. Theologically, it affirms the deity of Christ, the efficacy of His atonement, and the reliability of God's Word in providing certainty to His children. It also speaks to the nature of true faith—not a fleeting emotion, but a settled trust that leads to a transformed life, marked by love and obedience, which in turn provides further evidence of that genuine faith.
Reflection and Application
1 John 5:13 offers profound comfort and stability to every believer, challenging the common misconception that spiritual assurance is unattainable or presumptuous. It directly addresses the human tendency towards doubt and self-condemnation, asserting that God desires His children to live in the confident knowledge of their eternal destiny. This assurance is not a license for complacency but a powerful motivation for holy living and joyful service. When we truly "know that we have eternal life" because we "believe on the name of the Son of God," our identity is secured in Christ, our fears are diminished, and our purpose becomes clearer. This certainty empowers us to face life's challenges, to persevere through trials, and to boldly share the hope we have with others, knowing that our future is eternally secure in the hands of our faithful God. It calls us to regularly return to the foundational truths of the gospel and to continually deepen our trust in Jesus, the source of all life.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does it mean to "believe on the name of the Son of God"?
To "believe on the name of the Son of God" means much more than simply acknowledging Jesus' existence or even His historical identity. In biblical usage, a "name" encapsulates the entire character, authority, essence, and reputation of a person. Therefore, to believe on the name of the Son of God means to place one's complete trust, reliance, and allegiance in who Jesus is (fully God and fully human, the unique Son of God) and what He has accomplished through His life, death, and resurrection for the salvation of humanity. It signifies a personal, saving faith that embraces His divine nature, His atoning work, and His Lordship. This belief is the foundation for receiving and experiencing eternal life, as highlighted throughout John's writings, such as in John 3:16.
Is it really possible to "know" that I have eternal life, or is that presumptuous?
According to 1 John 5:13, it is not only possible but also God's express desire that believers "may know that ye have eternal life." The Greek word for "know" (οἶδα, oida) signifies a settled, experiential, and confident knowledge, not mere intellectual understanding or presumption. This assurance is not based on our feelings or perfect performance, but on the objective truth of God's Word and the internal witness of the Holy Spirit. John provides "tests" throughout his letter (e.g., walking in light, loving others, confessing Christ's true nature) not as conditions for earning salvation, but as evidences that confirm the reality of the eternal life already received through faith in Christ. The Bible consistently teaches that true believers can and should live with a confident assurance of their salvation, as affirmed in passages like Romans 8:16.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
1 John 5:13 finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is Himself the embodiment and source of eternal life. The Apostle John's purpose in writing, to ensure believers "know that ye have eternal life," is realized precisely because Jesus, the "Son of God," has accomplished everything necessary for humanity to receive this life. Christ declared, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6), and promised, "I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish" (John 10:28). He is the "resurrection and the life" (John 11:25), conquering death through His own sacrifice. Therefore, believing "on the name of the Son of God" is not merely an intellectual exercise but a radical entrustment of one's entire being to the One who is Life itself. Our assurance is not in our ability to believe perfectly, but in the perfect and complete work of Christ, who, by His incarnation, atoning death, and glorious resurrection, has secured and freely offers this divine, unending life to all who place their faith in Him. He is the "true God, and eternal life" (1 John 5:20), making the confident "knowing" of eternal life possible for all who are united to Him by faith.