1 John 2:4

He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.

1 John 2:4 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to the first letter of the apostle John, written to believers to encourage and instruct them in the faith. In the immediate context, verse 3 gives the positive counterpart: we know that we know Him if we keep His commandments. Verse 5 then contrasts this by saying that in whoever keeps His word, the love of God is perfected. John writes to address the danger of claiming to know God while failing to obey Him.

Meaning

The phrase “He that saith, I know him” describes someone who claims a personal relationship with God. Knowing God here is not mere intellectual knowledge; it implies a deep, personal, and transformative relationship through Jesus Christ. John then states that if such a person does not keep God’s commandments, that claim is false. The strong word “liar” means the person makes a false profession and contradicts what they say by their actions. In works they deny Him, which betrays their ignorance of Him.

The consequence is that “the truth is not in him.” This truth is the truth of the Gospel, which includes not only understanding but also a changed life and a heart aligned with God’s will. Where obedience is absent, the transforming power of the Gospel has not taken root.

Biblical connections

This teaching echoes the broader biblical principle that genuine faith is evidenced by obedience. The connection between knowing God and keeping His commandments is consistent with Jesus’ words in John 14:15, where He says, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” John’s warning also reflects the situation of the Gnostics, who claimed deep knowledge of divine things but disregarded God’s commandments.

Application

This verse calls us to examine our own lives. Do we merely profess to know God, or does our obedience demonstrate that we truly know Him? It warns against self-deception and challenges us to let the truth of the Gospel transform our actions, not just our words.

Reflection

John’s words are a sober reminder that authentic faith is inseparable from obedience. Knowing God is not a claim we make but a life we live. As we grow in relationship with Christ, our desire to keep His commandments should increase, showing that the truth is indeed in us.