New Testament
1 John 2:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The world is passing away, along with its lusts, but whoever does the will of God remains forever.
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And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
What 1 John 2:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse reminds us that the world and its desires are temporary. Everything we chase after, like fame, wealth, or pleasure, will eventually fade away. In contrast, those who choose to follow God's guidance and live according to His will find lasting fulfillment. Their lives are anchored in something eternal, which transcends the fleeting nature of worldly pursuits. This is a call to focus on what truly matters. By aligning our actions with God's purpose, we secure a place in His everlasting kingdom. The choice is clear: pursue the temporary or embrace the eternal. The decision we make today shapes our future forever. Choose wisely, for what we invest in now will determine our legacy in the life to come. Living for God means living for something that lasts beyond this life, offering hope and purpose that never fades away. This is the essence of true life, rooted in divine will and love, which stands the test of time and circumstance, providing peace and assurance.
How to apply 1 John 2:17 to your life
Reflect on what you are pursuing in life. Are these goals aligned with God's will? Consider making adjustments to focus on what truly matters. Invest your time and energy in relationships and actions that reflect God's love and purpose. This will lead to a more meaningful and lasting life experience. Embrace the eternal over the temporary today. “Choose wisely.” “Live for God.” “Find fulfillment.” “Make a difference.” “Leave a legacy.”
Curated for this public verse page. 1 John Summary
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John the Apostle
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying 1 John 2:17
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Early Christian communities
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 John 2:17 mean?
1 John 2:17 emphasizes the temporary nature of the world and its desires, contrasting it with the eternal life found in doing God's will. It encourages believers to focus on lasting values rather than fleeting pleasures.
What is the meaning of 'the world is passing away' in 1 John 2:17?
The phrase 'the world is passing away' signifies that worldly pursuits and desires are temporary and will ultimately fade. It serves as a reminder to prioritize spiritual over material pursuits.
What does 'whoever does the will of God remains forever' mean?
This part of 1 John 2:17 means that those who align their lives with God's purpose and follow His guidance will experience eternal life and fulfillment, contrasting with the temporary nature of worldly desires.
How can I apply 1 John 2:17 to my life?
To apply 1 John 2:17, reflect on your life goals and ensure they align with God's will. Focus on building meaningful relationships and engaging in actions that reflect God's love, leading to a more fulfilling life.
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