One verse. Three ways to understand.
FaithfulClear, modern wording
My dear ones, I'm writing this to you so you won't mess up. But if you do slip up, we have someone in our corner with the Father, Jesus Christ, who's completely righteous and speaks up for us.
The heart of the verse
You've got Jesus as your defense attorney with God, even when you mess up.
These are AI-assisted adaptations, not separate Bible editions. Compare them with the KJV source and read our methodology. How these readings are made →
Read the KJV source
King James Version · EnglishMy little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:Ask the AI Assistant
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📜 Historical Context — Why was this verse written?
John the Apostle likely wrote this letter to Christian communities in Asia Minor in the late first century CE. The letter addressed false teachings denying Jesus's full humanity and encouraged believers to maintain fellowship and righteous living.