What does 1 John 4:5 mean?

Explanation

1 John 4:5 speaks to the distinction between those who are influenced by the world and those who are influenced by God.

The verse suggests that some people belong to the world and therefore speak from the perspective of the world. Their values, interests, and conversation reflect worldly matters, and they are easily understood and accepted by those who share the same worldly perspective.

The phrase "the world heareth them" signifies that there is a mutual recognition and acceptance between those who are worldly and the world itself; they are on the same wavelength, so to speak.

This verse contrasts with the following verse, which focuses on those who are of God and how the world does not listen to them, illuminating the tension between spiritual and worldly values.

Historical Context

The First Epistle of John, traditionally attributed to John the Apostle, was likely written between A.D. 90 and 110.

This was a period when early Christian communities were confronted with various false teachings and heresies, such as Gnosticism, which claimed secret knowledge (gnosis) for salvation.

These communities were also dealing with internal divisions, such as those who departed from orthodox teachings.

The epistle was intended to reassure Christians in their faith and to provide criteria by which to test the spirits and discern true teachers from false prophets.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse has been interpreted in several ways.

From a conservative evangelical perspective, it aligns with the doctrine that there is a clear delineation between the kingdom of God and the secular world.

Liberals and progressives might emphasize the communal aspect of listening and discernment, advocating for a more integrated approach to understanding the role of Christians in the world.

In Catholic theology, this verse might be situated in the context of the Church’s magisterium, which guides the faithful in distinguishing truth from falsehood.

Additionally, the verse has been used to support the concept of "worldliness” as a state that is focused on temporal affairs to the neglect of spiritual growth.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse can be applied in daily life by encouraging individuals to be mindful of what influences guide their actions and speech.

Christians are called to discern whether their motivations are rooted in worldly desires or in a desire to serve God and reflect His teachings.

This verse may also inspire believers to critically evaluate popular culture, societal norms, and even the prevailing ideologies of the times through a spiritual lens.

Furthermore, it is a call to communicate in ways that reflect their faith, even when such communication may not resonate with secular worldviews.

Cross-References

• John 15:19: "If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you."
• James 4:4: "Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God."
• Romans 12:2: "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the key term is "κόσμου" (kosmou), which translates as "world." It refers not just to the physical earth or mankind, but often to the earthly realm of existence with its values and priorities that stand opposed to God's kingdom and divine principles.

The verb "ἀκούω" (akouō) translated as "heareth," implies not only physical hearing but also acceptance and acknowledgment.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing this verse to other ancient texts, it shares a common theme with many religious and philosophical systems which also emphasize a distinction between a higher truth or divine realm and the mundane human experience.

For instance, in Platonism, there is the ideal realm of forms distinct from the physical world.

In Hinduism, the concept of Maya denotes the illusionary, transient world as opposed to the eternal Brahman.

Buddhism similarly distinguishes between Samsara, the cycle of death and rebirth filled with suffering, and the state of Nirvana.

Scientific Perspectives

While science primarily concerns itself with the empirical and measurable aspects of the world and does not typically engage with the theological concepts of "worldliness," there are intersections.

The study of psychology and sociology might intersect with this verse by examining the influence of cultural and social norms on individual behavior, paralleling the notion of "speaking of the world." Moreover, the dynamics of in-group and out-group communication and acceptance described in the verse resonate with research on social identity and group conformity.

Commentaries

Commentators have provided various insights on this verse:

• Matthew Henry emphasizes that those who are of the world speak its language, and the world listens because it loves to hear its own voice.
• Adam Clarke notes that false prophets have the world's interests at heart; therefore, the world listens.

The world and its prophets have mutual sympathy.

• John Gill discusses how the phrase "of the world" indicates being taken from it and partaking of its spirit, suggesting a preoccupation with the honors, riches, and pleasures of the world.
• The Pulpit Commentary references that false teachers find an audience among those who share their worldly mindset because their teachings flatter worldly desires and wisdom.