1 John 2:28
“And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →John urges his children to abide in Christ so they may have confidence at His appearing.
What Does 1 John 2:28 Mean?
John gathers his appeal: little children, abide in Him. The goal is that when Christ appears, they may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming. Abiding now prepares us for that day.
The return of Christ frames the whole Christian life. Those who remain in Him need not shrink back in shame but may stand with confidence. This is no fearful striving but the natural fruit of a life joined to Jesus. John lovingly points his readers forward to the day of His appearing, urging them to abide now so that the meeting then will be one of joy, not regret.
In the Original Language
parousia (παρουσία), 'coming' -- the arrival or presence of Christ, here His future appearing in glory.