New Testament
1 John 3:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Dear friends, we are now the sons of God, and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be. But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.
Compare translations
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.
What 1 John 3:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the author reminds us that we are currently recognized as children of God. This is a profound identity that shapes who we are today. However, there is still a mystery about what we will become in the future. We can be assured that when God reveals himself fully, we will be transformed to be like him. This transformation is not just physical but also spiritual, reflecting his character and nature. The promise of seeing God as he truly is gives us hope and motivation. It encourages us to live in a way that honors our identity as God's children. This verse invites us to look forward to a future filled with possibilities and divine connection. It reassures us that our journey is not complete yet, and there is more to come in our relationship with God. We are on a path of becoming more like him, which is a beautiful promise for every believer to hold onto with joy and anticipation. Our current status as God's children is just the beginning of a greater story.
How to apply 1 John 3:2 to your life
Embrace your identity as a child of God and let it shape your daily life. Remember that you are on a journey of growth and transformation. Look forward to the future with hope, knowing that you will one day reflect God's true nature. This promise can inspire you to live with purpose and joy today. Trust in the process of becoming more like Him each day as you grow in faith and love for others.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 John Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 1 John 3:2
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 1 John 3:2
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 3:2 mean?
1 John 3:2 emphasizes our current status as children of God and hints at the mystery of our future transformation. It assures us that when God appears, we will be changed to be like Him, reflecting His true nature.
What is the meaning of 'sons of God' in 1 John 3:2?
The phrase 'sons of God' in 1 John 3:2 signifies our identity and relationship with God, indicating that we are recognized as His children. This status shapes our lives and gives us a sense of belonging and purpose.
How does 1 John 3:2 encourage believers?
1 John 3:2 encourages believers by reminding them of their identity as God's children and the promise of future transformation. It inspires hope and motivates them to live in a way that reflects their divine connection.
What does 'we shall see him as he is' mean in 1 John 3:2?
The phrase 'we shall see him as he is' means that believers will have a direct and clear experience of God in the future. This promise signifies a deep, transformative encounter that will reveal God's true nature to us.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.