1 John 2:28 – “And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, John is encouraging believers to continue in Jesus — to stay close to Him, to live in relationship with Him, and to walk in His truth.
He calls his readers “dear children,” showing his fatherly love and concern for them.
John’s focus is on the future return of Jesus. He reminds believers that one day, Jesus will appear again. When that happens, he wants them to be able to stand before Him with confidence and without shame.
To live confidently and without regret when Jesus returns, believers must remain faithful and continue living in Him now.
John’s message is clear: Live today in a way that prepares you to meet Jesus tomorrow.
Historical Context
John’s readers were being tempted by false teachers who were leading people away from the truth. Some believers were being shaken and unsure of their faith.
John’s letter is written to encourage them to hold firmly to the truth, to resist false teaching, and to continue walking with Jesus.
This verse points to the future hope of Jesus’ return, but it also addresses how believers should live right now — by remaining in Him.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that how we live now matters.
The return of Jesus is not just a distant event; it is something that should shape how believers live every day.
It also shows that believers can look forward to Jesus’ return with confidence — not because of their own goodness, but because they have remained in Him.
John is teaching that spiritual perseverance matters. It is not enough to start well; we are called to continue in Christ to the end.
Literary Analysis
John uses personal, tender language again with the phrase “dear children.”
The key command in this verse is “continue in him” (or “abide in him”).
John connects present faithfulness to future confidence.
The word “appear” points to the second coming of Jesus — when He will return in glory.
The contrast between being confident and being ashamed highlights the importance of living a life that is faithful and ready for His return.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- John 15:4 – “Remain in me, as I also remain in you.”
- Philippians 1:6 – “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
- 1 John 3:2-3 – “When Christ appears, we shall be like him… All who have this hope in him purify themselves.”
- 2 Timothy 4:7-8 – Paul speaks of finishing the race and looking forward to the crown of righteousness.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, this verse is a call to stay faithful to Jesus. It is easy to drift, get distracted, or be led astray by the world.
John is urging us to continue in Christ — to keep trusting, obeying, and walking with Him.
It is also a reminder that Jesus is coming back. That truth should shape how we live right now. When we live for Him today, we will not be ashamed when He returns.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse shows God’s love in a powerful way. He wants His children to live in such a way that they can stand before Him with joy and confidence, not fear or shame.
God does not hide His expectations or leave His people guessing. He clearly calls them to continue in Him so they can be ready to meet Him when He returns.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse is focused on Jesus — His presence now and His return in the future.
John’s message is simple: stay in Jesus. Remain in His truth, His love, and His ways.
The promise is that when Jesus appears, those who have remained in Him will not be ashamed but will stand before Him with confidence and joy.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does it mean to you personally to “continue in Him”?
- How does the promise of Jesus’ return affect how you live today?
- Are there areas in your life where you are tempted to drift away from Jesus?
- How can you live each day in a way that prepares you to stand confidently before Him?
- How can you encourage others to remain faithful and continue in Christ?