New Testament
1 John 5:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
We also know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding so that we can know the one who is true. And we are in the one who is true — in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.
Compare translations
And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.
What 1 John 5:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn that Jesus, the Son of God, has come into our world to help us understand who God truly is. Through Him, we gain insight into the nature of God, allowing us to connect with the one who is real and genuine. This relationship is not just theoretical; it’s personal and transformative. We are invited to be part of this truth, living in a close relationship with Jesus Christ. He embodies the essence of God and offers us eternal life. This means that knowing Him is not just about information; it’s about experiencing a life that lasts forever. By being in Jesus, we find our true identity and purpose. This understanding shapes how we view ourselves and our lives, leading us to a deeper faith and assurance in God’s promises. Ultimately, this verse reassures us that Jesus is the ultimate source of truth and life, guiding us through our journey of faith with clarity and hope. Our connection with Him is what gives our lives meaning and direction, anchoring us in the reality of God’s love.
How to apply 1 John 5:20 to your life
To apply this verse, take time to reflect on your relationship with Jesus. Ask yourself how well you know Him and what that means for your daily life. Consider ways to deepen your understanding of God through prayer, reading, and community. Embrace the truth that knowing Jesus brings purpose and hope to your life. Let this knowledge guide your decisions and interactions with others, reflecting His love and truth in all you do.
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 Paul's story: The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:57–8:2)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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 5:20
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 5:20
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 5:20 say about knowing God?
1 John 5:20 emphasizes that through Jesus, the Son of God, we gain understanding of who God truly is. It highlights that knowing God is not just intellectual but involves a personal relationship with Him through Jesus Christ, who embodies truth and offers eternal life.
How can I deepen my relationship with Jesus according to this verse?
To deepen your relationship with Jesus as suggested in 1 John 5:20, engage in regular prayer, study the Bible, and participate in community worship. Reflect on how Jesus' teachings apply to your life and seek to embody His love and truth in your daily interactions.
Why is understanding Jesus important for eternal life?
Understanding Jesus is crucial for eternal life because He is the source of truth and life. 1 John 5:20 teaches that through knowing Jesus, we enter into a transformative relationship that offers us not just knowledge about God but the promise of everlasting life with Him.
How does this verse relate to my daily life?
1 John 5:20 encourages you to reflect on your identity in Christ and how that shapes your daily decisions and interactions. By recognizing Jesus as the true God, you can find purpose and direction, allowing His truth to influence how you live and relate to others.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.