1 John 5:18 — “We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the One who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil one cannot harm them.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, John is reminding believers of an important truth about their new life in God. He says that anyone who is born of God—meaning, anyone who has trusted in Jesus and has been made new by God—does not continue to sin.
This does not mean that a believer never stumbles or makes mistakes. John already said earlier in this letter that if we claim to be without sin, we are lying (1 John 1:8). What he is saying here is that a true believer will not live in ongoing, willful sin. Their life will show a change because they belong to God.
Then John adds something powerful: “The One who was born of God keeps them safe.”
This likely refers to Jesus, the Son of God.
Jesus protects His people and keeps them from being overcome by the power of sin and the influence of the evil one (Satan).
The promise is clear: Those who belong to God are no longer under the control of evil.
Historical Context
John was writing to early Christians who were surrounded by false teaching and spiritual confusion. Some teachers were promoting sinful lifestyles and saying it didn’t matter how people lived.
John is reminding believers that real faith in Jesus shows itself in how a person lives.
He is also encouraging them that, even though they face spiritual attacks, they are kept safe by Jesus.
This was vital for believers who lived in a world filled with spiritual darkness and deception.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that being born of God changes a person.
True believers do not continue in a pattern of sin because God has given them a new heart.
It also teaches that Jesus protects His people.
The evil one—Satan—has no lasting power over those who belong to God.
This verse highlights the truth of spiritual security. Believers can trust that God will hold them and keep them safe from ultimate harm.
Literary Analysis
John’s language in this verse is clear and confident:
- “We know” — John is reminding believers of something certain.
- “Does not continue to sin” — points to a way of life, not occasional failure.
- “Keeps them safe” — shows God’s protective care.
- “The evil one cannot harm them” — gives assurance of spiritual protection.
John’s writing is firm and encouraging, meant to give believers confidence in their standing with God.
Cross-References
- 1 John 3:9 — “No one who is born of God will continue to sin.”
- John 10:28-29 — “No one will snatch them out of my hand.”
- 2 Thessalonians 3:3 — “But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.”
- Romans 6:6 — “We should no longer be slaves to sin.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is both a challenge and an encouragement.
It challenges believers to examine their lives. If someone claims to know God but continues to live in willful, unrepentant sin, something is wrong.
But it also encourages believers. Even when we struggle, we can know that Jesus is protecting us, and Satan cannot have control over us.
This verse calls Christians to live out their new identity and to trust in Jesus’ protection.
How This Verse Shows God’s Love
This verse shows God’s love by reminding us that He doesn’t just save us—He keeps us safe.
He doesn’t leave His children alone to face sin and spiritual attacks.
He watches over them, protects them, and helps them walk in freedom from sin.
God’s love is seen in His ongoing care and protection for His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse centers on what Jesus has done and continues to do.
He is the One who was born of God—God’s Son—who protects His people.
Because of Jesus:
- Sin no longer rules over believers (Romans 6:14).
- The devil has no lasting power over them (Colossians 1:13).
- Believers are safe in God’s hands (John 10:28-29).
The believer’s victory over sin and safety from the evil one come entirely from Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge your understanding of what it means to be “born of God”?
- In what ways have you seen God’s protection in your life?
- How does knowing Jesus keeps you safe encourage you in your daily struggles?
- Why is it important to understand the difference between occasional sin and continuing in sin?
- How can you live in greater confidence and freedom because of this truth?