1 John 4:2 Meaning and Explanation
“Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Spirit of God is recognized by the confession that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh.
What Does 1 John 4:2 Mean?
John gives a test for the spirits. The Spirit of God is known by this: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God. The true confession centers on the real coming of Christ.
The touchstone is the truth about Jesus. To confess that He has truly come in the flesh, fully entering our human life, is the mark of the Spirit of God. This guards against teaching that would deny the reality of the incarnation. John gives his readers a clear, Christ-centered standard. Whatever honors the genuine coming of Jesus in flesh and blood bears the stamp of God's own Spirit.
1 John 4:2 in the Original Language
sarx (σάρξ), 'flesh' -- human bodily nature, here affirming that Jesus Christ truly came in real human form.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 John 4:2
What does 1 John 4:2 mean?
The Spirit of God is recognized by the confession that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh.