1 John 5:7 — “For there are three that testify:”
Extended Explanation
This verse is short but important. John is continuing his point about how we can know who Jesus really is. He says there are three witnesses, or three that “testify.” To testify means to speak the truth or to give proof. In this case, John is setting up how God has provided solid, unshakable evidence about Jesus.
He will explain in the next verse (verse 8) that these three witnesses are:
- The Spirit
- The water
- The blood
But here, he is preparing the reader to understand that the truth about Jesus isn’t based on rumors, human opinions, or imagination. It’s based on reliable testimony—something you can build your life on.
Historical Context
At the time this letter was written, many people were confused or deceived about who Jesus was. False teachers were trying to convince believers that Jesus wasn’t really God’s Son or that His death wasn’t necessary.
In the Jewish world, the law required two or three witnesses to establish the truth in a legal case (Deuteronomy 19:15). John is using that same standard. He’s saying God hasn’t left the truth about Jesus in doubt—there are three witnesses that prove it.
This was essential in a time when the young church needed assurance and clarity about their faith.
Theological Implications
This verse shows us that God doesn’t expect blind faith. He provides clear testimony about His Son. Christianity is not built on myths or guesses; it’s built on the witness of God’s Spirit, Jesus’ baptism (water), and Jesus’ death (blood).
It also reflects that truth is something God Himself affirms. Our faith is based on something solid—what God has said and done.
Literary Analysis
This verse is brief and acts like a drumroll before the next verse. It introduces the idea of three witnesses without naming them yet, creating a sense of expectation and importance.
John’s writing here is clean and direct. He’s setting up a legal and spiritual case, as if he were presenting evidence in a courtroom. The word testify is a legal term, emphasizing that truth is on trial, and God Himself is providing the testimony.
Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 19:15 — “A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.”
- John 15:26 — “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me.”
- John 1:32-34 — John the Baptist’s testimony at Jesus’ baptism.
- Hebrews 12:24 — “To Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, this verse is a reminder that your faith rests on solid ground. You don’t have to wonder or guess about who Jesus is. God has provided proof—three strong witnesses that point to Jesus as the Savior and Son of God.
This verse also encourages believers to hold firm when the world questions or denies Jesus. The truth about Him is not based on shifting feelings but on real evidence.
How This Verse Shows God’s Love
This verse shows God’s love because He doesn’t leave people in the dark. He gives clear testimony about who Jesus is. He knows that people can be easily misled or confused, so He provides trustworthy proof.
God’s love is shown in how much He wants people to know the truth, and how much He wants them to believe and be saved.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse is preparing the ground to point directly to Jesus. The witnesses John will mention—the Spirit, the water, and the blood—all point to Jesus’ identity and mission:
- The Spirit declares that Jesus is God’s Son (John 15:26).
- The water refers to His baptism, when God publicly announced Jesus as His Son (Matthew 3:17).
- The blood refers to His death, where Jesus gave His life to save sinners (Hebrews 9:14).
This verse reminds us that all the evidence God gives centers on Jesus.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think John emphasizes the idea of “witnesses” or “testimony” about Jesus?
- How does it encourage you to know that God has provided clear testimony about His Son?
- In what ways does the world today try to question or ignore these witnesses?
- How can you personally be a witness to who Jesus is?
- How does knowing the truth about Jesus give you confidence in your daily life?