1 John 3:2

“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.”

This verse is found in the first epistle of John, a letter written by the apostle John to encourage and instruct early Christians. In this particular verse, John addresses the believers as “beloved,” emphasizing his deep affection for them and highlighting their special relationship with God.

• “Now are we the sons of God”: This statement highlights the present reality for believers. John emphasizes that those who have put their faith in Jesus Christ have become children of God. Through faith in Christ, believers are adopted into God’s family and enjoy a close, intimate relationship with Him. As God’s children, we receive His love, care, and guidance in our lives.
• “And it doth not yet appear what we shall be”: John acknowledges that while we are already God’s children, there is a future aspect of our identity that is not fully revealed or understood. In other words, there is a glorious future awaiting believers that surpasses our present experience. As children of God, we are in a process of transformation and growth, becoming more like Christ each day.
• “But we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him”: This verse assures believers that when Christ returns, we will be completely transformed into His likeness. This transformation will occur at the Second Coming of Jesus, a future event when He will return to earth in all His glory. At that time, all believers will be fully conformed to the image of Christ, both spiritually and physically. We will be perfected, free from sin, and fully transformed to reflect His holiness.
• “For we shall see him as he is”: John affirms that when Christ appears, we will have the privilege of seeing Him in His true form. This implies not only a physical sight but also a deep, personal encounter with Jesus, where we will intimately know and experience His presence. This vision of Christ will be awe‑inspiring and will further contribute to our transformation into His likeness.