1 John 3:20 Meaning and Explanation
“For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →When our heart condemns us, we rest in a God who is greater than our heart and knows all.
What Does 1 John 3:20 Mean?
John speaks to the troubled conscience. If our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and He knows all things. His knowledge and mercy reach beyond our self-accusation.
There are times when our hearts accuse us harshly, perhaps more than is just. John points us above our own verdict to God, who is greater and who knows everything, including the genuine love and faith He has planted in us. This is deep comfort for the anxious soul. We are not finally judged by our wavering feelings but by the God who sees the whole truth and is rich in mercy toward His children.
1 John 3:20 in the Original Language
kardia (καρδία), 'heart' -- the inner self of thought and conscience, here the part that may condemn us before God.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 John 3:20
What does 1 John 3:20 mean?
When our heart condemns us, we rest in a God who is greater than our heart and knows all.