1 John 2:21 – “I do not write to you because you do not know the truth, but because you do know it and because no lie comes from the truth.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, John continues to encourage and reassure the believers he is writing to. He wants them to understand that he is not writing because they are ignorant or lacking knowledge of the truth. Instead, he is writing because they already know the truth.
These believers had already received the truth about Jesus Christ — who He is, what He has done, and what it means to live for Him. John is not questioning their faith or their understanding. He is reminding them of what they already know so they can stand firm.
He also makes a simple but important point: no lie comes from the truth. Truth and lies cannot mix. The truth about Jesus and the lies of the false teachers cannot both be right. One is true; the other is false. John wants his readers to see that what the false teachers are saying is completely opposed to the truth they already know.
Historical Context
At the time John wrote this letter, false teachers were spreading lies about Jesus. Some denied that Jesus was truly the Christ. Others claimed to have special knowledge that made them superior to other believers.
These lies caused confusion and division in the church. Some believers were unsure whom to believe.
John is reminding them that they already know the truth — the message about Jesus they received from the beginning. They don’t need new teaching. They need to hold onto what they already know.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that truth is not changing or uncertain. The truth about Jesus is settled and clear. Believers do not need to search for new revelations or hidden knowledge. God has already revealed the truth in Jesus Christ and through His Word.
It also shows that truth and lies cannot mix. Spiritual truth is pure and unchanging. False teaching may sound good, but it cannot come from the truth.
This verse reminds us that knowing the truth is not about intellectual knowledge alone but about knowing Jesus personally and standing firm in that truth.
Literary Analysis
John’s writing here is both pastoral and direct. He uses a positive approach: “I do not write to you because you do not know…” He is encouraging the believers, affirming that they already possess the truth.
The phrase “no lie comes from the truth” is short and sharp. It draws a clear line between truth and error. There is no middle ground or gray area.
John’s goal is to settle the hearts of his readers and help them stay confident in what they know.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- John 8:32 – “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
- John 14:6 – Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life.”
- 1 John 2:20 – “You have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth.”
- 2 Timothy 3:14-15 – Paul urges believers to continue in what they have learned and firmly believed.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s believer, this verse is a reminder that if you belong to Jesus, you already know the truth. You don’t need to be shaken by every new idea, trend, or false teaching.
This verse encourages you to stand firm, to trust the truth you have received through God’s Word and the Holy Spirit.
It also reminds you to be discerning. Truth and lies cannot mix. When you hear something that contradicts God’s Word, you can be sure it is not from God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in the fact that He gives His people the truth and does not leave them in confusion. He doesn’t play games or hide the truth from us.
Instead, He lovingly reminds us of what we already know so we can walk confidently and not be deceived.
This verse is part of God’s loving protection — helping His children stay anchored in truth.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the truth (John 14:6). Knowing the truth means knowing Him.
This verse connects directly to Jesus because the truth John is writing about is the truth of who Jesus is — the Son of God, the Christ, the Savior.
John’s reminder is simple but powerful: you know the truth because you know Jesus.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does it encourage you to know that you already have the truth if you belong to Jesus?
- Are there voices or ideas in your life that tempt you to doubt or question the truth you know?
- What does this verse teach you about the difference between truth and lies?
- How can you grow in confidence and discernment when it comes to spiritual truth?
- How can you encourage others who may be confused or shaken by false teaching?