1 John 5:16

KJV

If any man see his brother sin a sin [which is] not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.

KJV (with Strong's)

If {G1437} any man {G5100} see {G1492} his {G846} brother {G80} sin {G264} a sin {G266} which is not {G3361} unto {G4314} death {G2288}, he shall ask {G154}, and {G2532} he shall give {G1325} him {G846} life {G2222} for them that sin {G264} not {G3361} unto {G4314} death {G2288}. There is {G2076} a sin {G266} unto {G4314} death {G2288}: I do not {G3756} say {G3004} that {G2443} he shall pray {G2065} for {G4012} it {G1565}.

Complete Jewish Bible

If anyone sees his brother committing a sin that does not lead to death, he will ask; and God will give him life for those whose sinning does not lead to death. There is sin that does lead to death; I am not saying he should pray about that.

Berean Standard Bible

If anyone sees his brother committing a sin not leading to death, he should ask God, who will give life to those who commit this kind of sin. There is a sin that leads to death; I am not saying he should ask regarding that sin.

American Standard Version

If any man see his brother sinning a sin not unto death, he shall ask, and God will give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: not concerning this do I say that he should make request.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First John 5:16 provides crucial guidance on intercessory prayer for fellow believers, distinguishing between a "sin not unto death" and a "sin unto death." It instructs believers to pray for restoration and life for those who commit sins that do not lead to a final, irreversible spiritual state, while acknowledging a category of sin for which such prayer is not prescribed, implying its futility or inappropriateness due to the nature of the sin or the unrepentant state of the sinner.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows John's profound statement on the [believer's confidence in prayer](/1_john/5-14-15 "1 John 5:14-15 - Confidence in Prayer") when asking according to God's will. Verses 14-15 assure believers that if they ask anything according to God's will, He hears them, and if He hears, they have what they asked for. Verse 16 then presents a specific application or, more accurately, a nuanced exception to this general principle of confident prayer. It moves from the broad scope of prayer to a very particular kind of intercession concerning a brother's sin, introducing a critical distinction that shapes the nature and limits of such prayer within the Christian community. The verse is thus deeply embedded in John's broader discussion of assurance, fellowship, and the practical implications of living in Christ.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First John was written to a Christian community facing internal challenges, primarily the rise of proto-Gnostic false teachers who denied the true humanity of Christ and often promoted a dualistic worldview that separated the spiritual from the physical, leading to either asceticism or antinomianism (a belief that moral laws are not binding). These false teachings threatened the unity and purity of the church, causing some to abandon the faith. The concept of a "sin unto death" likely resonates with the serious issue of apostasy—a deliberate and final rejection of Christ and the truth after having once embraced it. In such a context, John emphasizes the importance of true fellowship with God and one another, which is characterized by walking in light, confessing sin, and loving one another, providing a stark contrast to those who have departed from the truth.
* **Key Themes:** The verse significantly contributes to several key themes in 1 John. Firstly, **Intercessory Prayer** is highlighted as a vital practice within the Christian community, demonstrating the power of believers to minister to one another's spiritual well-being. This aligns with John's emphasis on communal love and mutual care. Secondly, the **Distinction of Sins** is introduced, challenging the reader to consider that not all sins have the same ultimate consequence, particularly in relation to one's standing before God. This distinction is crucial for understanding divine judgment and the boundaries of forgiveness. Lastly, the verse touches upon **Divine Judgment and Forgiveness**, implying that while God is faithful to forgive the sins of genuine believers who confess them ([1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession and Forgiveness")), there is a serious, unrepentant state of rebellion that places a person outside the scope of intercessory prayer for restoration, perhaps indicating a final judgment or a definitive turning away from God. This theme is further explored in John's warnings against those who deny Christ ([1 John 2:22-23](/1_john/2-22-23 "1 John 2:22-23 - Denying the Father and the Son")) and those who practice sin without repentance ([1 John 3:4-10](/1_john/3-4-10 "1 John 3:4-10 - Children of God and Children of the Devil")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **hamartánō (Greek, _hamartánō'_):** This verb, translated "sin," means "to miss the mark," "to err," or "to fall short." In a moral and spiritual sense, it signifies failing to meet God's perfect standard of righteousness. It encompasses both intentional acts of disobedience and unintentional deviations from God's will. In this verse, it describes the action a "brother" commits, highlighting that even within the believing community, sin is a reality that requires spiritual intervention.
* **dídōmi (Greek, _dídōmi'_):** Translated "give," this verb means "to bestow," "to grant," or "to impart." Here, it specifically refers to God's act of "giving life" in response to intercessory prayer. This "life" is not merely physical existence but implies spiritual restoration, renewal, forgiveness, or preservation from the ultimate spiritual consequences of sin, thereby bringing the sinning brother back into full fellowship with God.
* **thánatos (Greek, _thánatos'_):** This noun, translated "death," refers to death in a literal or figurative sense. In the context of "sin unto death," it signifies a profound and irreversible separation or judgment. This could refer to spiritual death (final alienation from God, apostasy), or in some interpretations, physical death as a divine judgment for specific, grievous sin within the community. The contrast between "life" and "death" underscores the grave stakes involved in the sin being discussed.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"If any man see his brother sin a sin [which is] not unto death":** This clause sets the condition for the prescribed action. The "brother" refers to a fellow believer, emphasizing the communal context of the instruction. The phrase "sin a sin [which is] not unto death" defines a category of sin that, while serious, does not lead to an ultimate, irreversible spiritual state of condemnation or final divine judgment. These are the common failings and transgressions that believers commit, for which repentance and forgiveness are possible and expected within the covenant of grace.
* **"he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death.":** This is the positive command and its promised outcome. The intercessor "shall ask" (pray) on behalf of the sinning brother. The "he" who "shall give him life" is God, who, in response to the prayer, grants spiritual restoration, renewed fellowship, or preservation from the full consequences of the sin. This highlights the powerful efficacy of intercessory prayer within the body of Christ, demonstrating God's willingness to restore those who stumble, provided their hearts are not irrevocably hardened.
* **"There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it."**: This clause introduces a stark contrast and a solemn warning. It acknowledges the existence of a "sin unto death," a category of sin distinct from the former. For this type of sin, John explicitly states, "I do not say that he shall pray for it." This is not necessarily a prohibition but rather an indication that prayer for repentance or restoration for such a sin would be futile or inappropriate, perhaps because the individual has reached a point of irreversible spiritual hardening, or because God's judgment has already been determined. This "sin unto death" is generally understood as a final, unrepentant rejection of Christ and the Holy Spirit, often associated with apostasy.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Juxtaposition** is central, as John sharply contrasts "a sin not unto death" with "a sin unto death," immediately drawing the reader's attention to the critical distinction. This contrast highlights the differing consequences and appropriate responses to various types of sin. The opening phrase, "If any man see," establishes a **Conditional Statement**, setting the premise for the subsequent instruction on intercessory prayer. This structure makes the guidance practical and applicable to specific scenarios within the community. Furthermore, John's phrasing "I do not say that he shall pray for it" can be seen as a form of **Euphemism** or **Understatement**. Rather than issuing a direct prohibition ("Do not pray for it"), he uses a more indirect negative command, which subtly conveys the gravity and finality of the "sin unto death," implying that prayer in such a case would be pointless because the individual's spiritual state is beyond the scope of intercession for restoration.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse grapples with profound theological questions regarding the nature of sin, divine judgment, and the scope of intercessory prayer. The distinction between a "sin unto death" and "not unto death" has historically been interpreted in various ways, but the most common understanding is that the "sin unto death" refers to a deliberate, final, and unrepentant rejection of Christ and the Holy Spirit after having known the truth—a state of apostasy or blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. This is not a single act but a hardened, settled disposition of rebellion that indicates one was never truly saved or has irrevocably turned away from the possibility of repentance and forgiveness. For all other sins committed by genuine believers, which are "not unto death," God's grace and forgiveness are available through Christ, and intercessory prayer is a powerful means of bringing restoration and "life." This underscores God's justice in judging ultimate rebellion and His mercy in providing forgiveness and restoration for His children who stumble. It also highlights the profound responsibility and privilege of believers to pray for one another's spiritual well-being.

* [James 5:19-20](/james/5-19-20 "James 5:19-20 - Restoring a Wandering Brother")
* [Matthew 12:31-32](/matthew/12-31-32 "Matthew 12:31-32 - Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit")
* [Hebrews 10:26-27](/hebrews/10-26-27 "Hebrews 10:26-27 - Willful Sin After Receiving the Truth")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First John 5:16 serves as a powerful call to active, discerning intercession within the body of Christ. It reminds us that our prayers for one another are not merely symbolic gestures but can be instrumental in bringing about spiritual restoration and preserving "life" for those who stumble in their faith. This verse compels us to cultivate a deep sense of responsibility for our brothers and sisters, to be vigilant in observing their spiritual struggles, and to be quick to pray for their repentance and renewal. Simultaneously, it presents a solemn warning about the gravity of certain sins, particularly those that signify a final, unrepentant turning away from God. This should lead us to self-examination, ensuring our own hearts remain soft towards God and quick to confess and repent of any sin. While the "sin unto death" is a rare and extreme condition, its mention underscores the importance of perseverance in faith and the danger of a hardened heart that resists the Spirit's call to repentance.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this verse challenge my current practice of intercessory prayer for others, especially those struggling with sin?**
* **What does the concept of a "sin unto death" teach me about the seriousness of rejecting God's grace and the importance of a repentant heart?**
* **In what ways can I better discern the spiritual needs of my fellow believers and respond with prayer and support?**

### FAQ

**What is the "sin unto death" mentioned in 1 John 5:16?**

Answer: The "sin unto death" (Greek: _hamartia pros thanaton_) is a highly debated concept, but generally, two main interpretations prevail. The most widely accepted view is that it refers to **apostasy** or a final, willful, and unrepentant rejection of Christ and the Holy Spirit after having truly known the truth of the gospel. This is not a single act but a hardened, settled state of rebellion against God, indicating that the person has irrevocably turned away from the possibility of repentance and forgiveness. It is akin to the [blasphemy against the Holy Spirit](/matthew/12-31-32 "Matthew 12:31-32 - Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit") mentioned by Jesus or the warnings in [Hebrews about falling away from faith](/hebrews/6-4-6 "Hebrews 6:4-6 - Falling Away from Faith") or [willful sin after receiving the knowledge of the truth](/hebrews/10-26-27 "Hebrews 10:26-27 - Willful Sin"). Another interpretation suggests it refers to a sin for which God's judgment is **physical death**, as seen in the case of [Ananias and Sapphira](/acts/5-1-11 "Acts 5:1-11 - Ananias and Sapphira") or the Corinthians who abused the Lord's Supper ([1 Corinthians 11:30](/1_corinthians/11-30 "1 Corinthians 11:30 - Divine Discipline in Corinth")). In this view, prayer is not prescribed because God's judgment has already been determined or executed.

**Does this verse mean some sins are unforgivable for believers?**

Answer: For a genuine believer who confesses their sins, all sins are forgivable through the atoning work of Christ ([1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession and Forgiveness")). The "sin unto death" is not about a specific act that is inherently unforgivable, but rather describes a **state of unrepentant rebellion or apostasy** where an individual has definitively rejected God's grace and hardened their heart to the point where they are no longer able or willing to repent. It signifies a person who has demonstrated they were never truly part of the community of genuine believers ([1 John 2:19](/1_john/2-19 "1 John 2:19 - Those Who Went Out From Us")) or has definitively turned away from the faith. Therefore, it's not that God *cannot* forgive, but that the individual has placed themselves beyond the reach of repentance.

**Why does John say "I do not say that he shall pray for it"?**

Answer: John's statement, "I do not say that he shall pray for it," is not a strict prohibition but rather an acknowledgment of the **futility or inappropriateness of such prayer**. If a person has committed the "sin unto death"—meaning they have irrevocably hardened their heart against God and rejected His truth—then prayer for their repentance would be ineffective because their will is set against Him, or it would be against God's determined judgment for such a state. It implies that for those who have definitively abandoned Christ, intercession for their spiritual restoration is no longer within the scope of God's will or effective. This statement serves as a solemn warning about the ultimate consequences of rejecting God's grace.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The profound message of [1 John 5:16](/1_john/5-16 "1 John 5:16 - Sin Unto Death and Intercessory Prayer") finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the very source of the "life" that is given in response to intercessory prayer for sins "not unto death," as He declared, "[I am the resurrection and the life](/john/11-25 "John 11:25 - Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life"); whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live." Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross provides the basis for the forgiveness of all sins for those who believe and repent, making Him our [advocate with the Father](/1_john/2-1-2 "1 John 2:1-2 - Christ Our Advocate") when we do sin. His victory over sin and death ([1 Corinthians 15:54-57](/1_corinthians/15-54-57 "1 Corinthians 15:54-57 - Victory Over Death")) assures believers that their struggles with sin, when confessed, do not lead to ultimate spiritual death. Furthermore, Jesus Himself is the ultimate intercessor, [always living to make intercession for us](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Intercession"), providing the divine pattern and power for our own prayers for one another. The solemn warning about the "sin unto death" underscores the gravity of rejecting the very One who offers this eternal life, highlighting that persistent, unrepentant rebellion against Christ leads to condemnation, as "[whoever does not believe is condemned already](/john/3-18 "John 3:18 - Condemnation for Unbelief") because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God." Thus, the verse, while challenging, ultimately points to Christ as the only way to life and the foundation for all effective intercession.

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

Hebrews 6:4

For [it is] impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,

Hebrews 6:6

If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put [him] to an open shame.

Jeremiah 11:14

Therefore pray not thou for this people, neither lift up a cry or prayer for them: for I will not hear [them] in the time that they cry unto me for their trouble.

Hebrews 10:26

For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,

Hebrews 10:31

[It is] a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

1 Samuel 2:25

If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the LORD, who shall intreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the LORD would slay them.

Mark 3:28

Verily I say unto you, All sins shall be forgiven unto the sons of men, and blasphemies wherewith soever they shall blaspheme: