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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 John 3:17 If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him?</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_john/3-17.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/17/62_1Jn_03_17.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 John 3:17 - Love One Another" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him?" /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/1_john/3-17.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/1_john/3-17.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/1_john/">1 John</a> > <a href="/1_john/3.htm">Chapter 3</a> > Verse 17</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad17.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_john/3-16.htm" title="1 John 3:16">◄</a> 1 John 3:17 <a href="/1_john/3-18.htm" title="1 John 3:18">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/1_john/3.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/1_john/3.htm">New International Version</a> If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? <a href="/nlt/1_john/3.htm">New Living Translation</a> If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion—how can God’s love be in that person? <a href="/esv/1_john/3.htm">English Standard Version</a> But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? <a href="/bsb/1_john/3.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him? <a href="/blb/1_john/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Now whoever might have the world's goods, and might see his brother having need, and might close up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? <a href="/kjv/1_john/3.htm">King James Bible</a> But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? <a href="/nkjv/1_john/3.htm">New King James Version</a> But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? <a href="/nasb_/1_john/3.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> But whoever has worldly goods and sees his brother or sister in need, and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God remain in him? <a href="/nasb/1_john/3.htm">NASB 1995</a> But whoever has the world&#8217s goods, and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him? <a href="/nasb77/1_john/3.htm">NASB 1977 </a> But whoever has the world’s goods, and beholds his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him? <a href="/lsb/1_john/3.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> But whoever has the world’s goods, and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him? <a href="/amp/1_john/3.htm">Amplified Bible</a> But whoever has the world’s goods (adequate resources), and sees his brother in need, but has no compassion for him, how does the love of God live in him? <a href="/csb/1_john/3.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> If anyone has this world’s goods and sees a fellow believer in need but withholds compassion from him—how does God’s love reside in him? <a href="/hcsb/1_john/3.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> If anyone has this world&#8217s goods and sees his brother in need but closes his eyes to his need—how can God&#8217s love reside in him? <a href="/asv/1_john/3.htm">American Standard Version</a> But whoso hath the world's goods, and beholdeth his brother in need, and shutteth up his compassion from him, how doth the love of God abide in him? <a href="/cev/1_john/3.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> If we have all we need and see one of our own people in need, we must have pity on that person, or else we cannot say we love God. <a href="/erv/1_john/3.htm">English Revised Version</a> But whoso hath the world's goods, and beholdeth his brother in need, and shutteth up his compassion from him, how doth the love of God abide in him? <a href="/gwt/1_john/3.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Now, suppose a person has enough to live on and notices another believer in need. How can God's love be in that person if he doesn't bother to help the other believer? <a href="/gnt/1_john/3.htm">Good News Translation</a> If we are rich and see others in need, yet close our hearts against them, how can we claim that we love God? <a href="/isv/1_john/3.htm">International Standard Version</a> Whoever has earthly possessions and notices a brother in need and yet withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God be present in him? <a href="/msb/1_john/3.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him? <a href="/net/1_john/3.htm">NET Bible</a> But whoever has the world's possessions and sees his fellow Christian in need and shuts off his compassion against him, how can the love of God reside in such a person? <a href="/nheb/1_john/3.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> But whoever has the world's goods, and sees his brother in need, and closes his heart of compassion against him, how does the love of God remain in him? <a href="/wbt/1_john/3.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> But he who hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? <a href="/wey/1_john/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> But if any one has this world's wealth and sees that his brother man is in need, and yet hardens his heart against him--how can such a one continue to love God? <a href="/web/1_john/3.htm">World English Bible</a> But whoever has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, then closes his heart of compassion against him, how does God’s love remain in him? <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_john/3.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> and whoever may have the goods of the world, and may view his brother having need, and may shut up his yearnings from him—how does the love of God remain in him? <a href="/blb/1_john/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Now whoever might have the world's goods, and might see his brother having need, and might close up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? <a href="/ylt/1_john/3.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and whoever may have the goods of the world, and may view his brother having need, and may shut up his bowels from him -- how doth the love of God remain in him? <a href="/slt/1_john/3.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And whoever has the life of the world, and sees his brother having need, and should shut up his bowels from him, how remains the love of God in him?<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_john/3.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> He that hath the substance of this world, and shall see his brother in need, and shall shut up his bowels from him: how doth the charity of God abide in him? <a href="/cpdv/1_john/3.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Whoever possesses the goods of this world, and sees his brother to be in need, and yet closes his heart to him: in what way does the love of God abide in him? <a href="/nabre/1_john/3.htm">New American Bible</a> If someone who has worldly means sees a brother in need and refuses him compassion, how can the love of God remain in him? <a href="/nrsvce/1_john/3.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help?<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_john/3.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Whoever has worldly goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts his mercy from him, how can the love of God dwell in him? <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_john/3.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> Whoever has worldly possessions and sees his brother who has a need and withholds his compassion from him, how is the love of God in him?<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/1_john/3.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Whoever has this world's goods, and sees his brother have need, and shuts his heart against him, how dwells the love of God in him? <a href="/godbey/1_john/3.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> Whosoever may have the sustenance of the world, and see his brother having need, and shut up his sympathies from him, how dwells the divine love of God in him? <a href="/haweis/1_john/3.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> But whosoever hath worldly abundance, and seeth his brother under necessity, and shutteth his bowels of compassion against him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? <a href="/mace/1_john/3.htm">Mace New Testament</a> he that possesses the enjoyments of life, and seeing his brother in want, has no compassion for him, how can he be said to have any divine love? <a href="/wey/1_john/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> But if any one has this world's wealth and sees that his brother man is in need, and yet hardens his heart against him--how can such a one continue to love God? <a href="/worrell/1_john/3.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> But whosoever possesses the goods of the world, and beholds his brother having need, and shuts up his compassion from him, how does the love of God abide in him? <a href="/worsley/1_john/3.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> But if any one, who hath the good things of the world, seeth his brother in want, and shutteth up his bowels from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? <a href="/parallel/1_john/3-17.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rlZ5ywDtQGE?start=593" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_john/3.htm">Love One Another</a> …16By this we know what love is: Jesus laid down His life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. 17<a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: d’ (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/302.htm" title="302: an (Prtcl) -- A primary particle, denoting a supposition, wish, possibility or uncertainty.">If</a> <a href="/greek/3739.htm" title="3739: hos (RelPro-NMS) -- Who, which, what, that. ">anyone</a> <a href="/greek/2192.htm" title="2192: echē (V-PSA-3S) -- To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.">with</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2889.htm" title="2889: kosmou (N-GMS) -- Probably from the base of komizo; orderly arrangement, i.e. Decoration; by implication, the world (morally).">earthly</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/979.htm" title="979: bion (N-AMS) -- A primary word; life, i.e. the present state of existence; by implication, the means of livelihood.">possessions</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/2334.htm" title="2334: theōrē (V-PSA-3S) -- From a derivative of theaomai; to be a spectator of, i.e. Discern, (experience) or intensively (acknowledge).">sees</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autou (PPro-GM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">his</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/80.htm" title="80: adelphon (N-AMS) -- A brother, member of the same religious community, especially a fellow-Christian. A brother near or remote.">brother</a> <a href="/greek/2192.htm" title="2192: echonta (V-PPA-AMS) -- To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.">in</a> <a href="/greek/5532.htm" title="5532: chreian (N-AFS) -- From the base of chraomai or chre; employment, i.e. An affair; also occasion, demand, requirement or destitution.">need,</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">but</a> <a href="/greek/2808.htm" title="2808: kleisē (V-ASA-3S) -- To shut, shut up. A primary verb; to close.">withholds</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autou (PPro-GM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">his</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ta (Art-ANP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/4698.htm" title="4698: splanchna (N-ANP) -- Probably strengthened from splen; an intestine; figuratively, pity or sympathy.">compassion</a> <a href="/greek/575.htm" title="575: ap’ (Prep) -- From, away from. A primary particle; off, i.e. Away, in various senses.">from</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autou (PPro-GM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">him,</a> <a href="/greek/4459.htm" title="4459: pōs (Adv) -- Adverb from the base of pou; an interrogative particle of manner; in what way?; also as exclamation, how much!">how</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hē (Art-NFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">can the</a> <a href="/greek/26.htm" title="26: agapē (N-NFS) -- From agapao; love, i.e. Affection or benevolence; specially a love-feast.">love</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theou (N-GMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">of God</a> <a href="/greek/3306.htm" title="3306: menei (V-PIA-3S) -- To remain, abide, stay, wait; with acc: I wait for, await. A primary verb; to stay.">abide</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autō (PPro-DM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">him?</a> 18Little children, let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/james/2-15.htm">James 2:15-16</a> Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. / If one of you tells him, “Go in peace; stay warm and well fed,” but does not provide for his physical needs, what good is that? <a href="/matthew/25-35.htm">Matthew 25:35-40</a> For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you took Me in, / I was naked and you clothed Me, I was sick and you looked after Me, I was in prison and you visited Me.’ / Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You something to drink? ... <a href="/luke/3-11.htm">Luke 3:11</a> John replied, “Whoever has two tunics should share with him who has none, and whoever has food should do the same.” <a href="/proverbs/19-17.htm">Proverbs 19:17</a> Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender. <a href="/galatians/6-10.htm">Galatians 6:10</a> Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith. <a href="/deuteronomy/15-7.htm">Deuteronomy 15:7-11</a> If there is a poor man among your brothers within any of the gates in the land that the LORD your God is giving you, then you are not to harden your heart or shut your hand from your poor brother. / Instead, you are to open your hand to him and freely loan him whatever he needs. / Be careful not to harbor this wicked thought in your heart: “The seventh year, the year of release, is near,” so that you look upon your poor brother begrudgingly and give him nothing. He will cry out to the LORD against you, and you will be guilty of sin. ... <a href="/acts/4-32.htm">Acts 4:32-35</a> The multitude of believers was one in heart and soul. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they owned. / With great power the apostles continued to give their testimony about the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And abundant grace was upon them all. / There were no needy ones among them, because those who owned lands or houses would sell their property, bring the proceeds from the sales, ... <a href="/2_corinthians/8-13.htm">2 Corinthians 8:13-15</a> It is not our intention that others may be relieved while you are burdened, but that there may be equality. / At the present time, your surplus will meet their need, so that in turn their surplus will meet your need. This way there will be equality. / As it is written: “He who gathered much had no excess, and he who gathered little had no shortfall.” <a href="/isaiah/58-6.htm">Isaiah 58:6-7</a> Isn’t this the fast that I have chosen: to break the chains of wickedness, to untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and tear off every yoke? / Isn’t it to share your bread with the hungry, to bring the poor and homeless into your home, to clothe the naked when you see him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? <a href="/matthew/5-42.htm">Matthew 5:42</a> Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. <a href="/luke/6-30.htm">Luke 6:30-36</a> Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what is yours, do not demand it back. / Do to others as you would have them do to you. / If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. ... <a href="/hebrews/13-16.htm">Hebrews 13:16</a> And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. <a href="/proverbs/21-13.htm">Proverbs 21:13</a> Whoever shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too shall cry out and receive no answer. <a href="/romans/12-13.htm">Romans 12:13</a> Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality. <a href="/ezekiel/18-7.htm">Ezekiel 18:7</a> He does not oppress another, but restores the pledge to the debtor. He does not commit robbery, but gives his bread to the hungry and covers the naked with clothing.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>But whoever has this world's good, and sees his brother have need, and shuts up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwells the love of God in him?whoso.<a href="/deuteronomy/15-7.htm">Deuteronomy 15:7-11</a> If there be among you a poor man of one of thy brethren within any of thy gates in thy land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thine heart, nor shut thine hand from thy poor brother: … <a href="/proverbs/19-17.htm">Proverbs 19:17</a> He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.<a href="/isaiah/58-7.htm">Isaiah 58:7-10</a> Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? … shutteth.<a href="/proverbs/12-10.htm">Proverbs 12:10</a> A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.<a href="/proverbs/28-9.htm">Proverbs 28:9</a> He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.how.<a href="/1_john/4-20.htm">1 John 4:20</a> If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?<a href="/1_john/5-1.htm">1 John 5:1</a> Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_john/2-28.htm">Abide</a> <a href="/james/1-24.htm">Beholdeth</a> <a href="/philemon/1-20.htm">Bowels</a> <a href="/proverbs/28-27.htm">Closes</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-8.htm">Compassion</a> <a href="/2_peter/3-13.htm">Dwelleth</a> <a href="/1_john/3-10.htm">God's</a> <a href="/1_john/3-12.htm">Good</a> <a href="/hebrews/10-34.htm">Goods</a> <a href="/romans/9-18.htm">Hardens</a> <a href="/1_john/2-15.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/1_john/3-6.htm">Keeps</a> <a href="/1_john/3-16.htm">Love</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-21.htm">Material</a> <a href="/1_john/2-27.htm">Need</a> <a href="/hebrews/10-34.htm">Possessions</a> <a href="/lamentations/3-8.htm">Shutteth</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-18.htm">Wealth</a> <a href="/1_john/2-16.htm">World's</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_john/3-24.htm">Abide</a> <a href="/job/7-8.htm">Beholdeth</a> <a href="/genesis/15-4.htm">Bowels</a> <a href="/job/7-5.htm">Closes</a> <a href="/jude/1-22.htm">Compassion</a> <a href="/1_john/3-24.htm">Dwelleth</a> <a href="/1_john/4-4.htm">God's</a> <a href="/1_john/3-18.htm">Good</a> <a href="/revelation/3-17.htm">Goods</a> <a href="/job/7-5.htm">Hardens</a> <a href="/1_john/3-19.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/1_john/3-24.htm">Keeps</a> <a href="/1_john/3-23.htm">Love</a> <a href="/revelation/21-18.htm">Material</a> <a href="/revelation/3-17.htm">Need</a> <a href="/genesis/4-20.htm">Possessions</a> <a href="/revelation/3-7.htm">Shutteth</a> <a href="/revelation/2-9.htm">Wealth</a> <a href="/1_john/4-5.htm">World's</a><div class="vheading2">1 John 3</div>1. <a href="/1_john/3-1.htm">He declares the singular love of God toward us, in making us his sons;</a> 3. <a href="/1_john/3-3.htm">who therefore ought obediently to keep his commandments;</a> 11. <a href="/1_john/3-11.htm">as also to love one another as brothers.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_john/3.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_john/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_john/3.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>If anyone with earthly possessions This phrase highlights the concept of material wealth and resources. In the biblical context, earthly possessions refer to tangible assets such as money, property, and goods. The Bible often addresses the responsibility that comes with wealth, emphasizing stewardship and generosity. In the Old Testament, the Law provided for the care of the poor through practices like gleaning (<a href="/leviticus/19-9.htm">Leviticus 19:9-10</a>) and the Year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25). Jesus also taught about the dangers of wealth, warning that it can become an idol (<a href="/matthew/6-24.htm">Matthew 6:24</a>) and urging His followers to store up treasures in heaven (<a href="/matthew/6-19.htm">Matthew 6:19-21</a>).sees his brother in need The term "brother" here is understood to mean fellow believers, though it can extend to all people in need. The early Christian community was known for its mutual care and support, as seen in <a href="/acts/2-44.htm">Acts 2:44-45</a>, where believers shared their possessions to ensure no one was in need. This reflects the biblical principle of loving one's neighbor (<a href="/leviticus/19-18.htm">Leviticus 19:18</a>) and the teaching of Jesus in the parable of the Good Samaritan (<a href="/luke/10-25.htm">Luke 10:25-37</a>), which expands the definition of "neighbor" to include anyone in need.but withholds his compassion from him Withholding compassion implies a deliberate choice to ignore or neglect the needs of others. Compassion is a key attribute of God, as seen in His dealings with Israel (<a href="/exodus/34-6.htm">Exodus 34:6</a>) and in the ministry of Jesus, who was moved with compassion for the crowds (<a href="/matthew/9-36.htm">Matthew 9:36</a>). The call to be compassionate is a reflection of God's character and is a recurring theme in the New Testament (<a href="/ephesians/4-32.htm">Ephesians 4:32</a>, <a href="/colossians/3-12.htm">Colossians 3:12</a>).how can the love of God abide in him? This rhetorical question challenges the authenticity of one's faith if it is not accompanied by acts of love and compassion. The love of God is not merely an emotion but is demonstrated through action (1 <a href="/john/3-18.htm">John 3:18</a>). The Apostle John emphasizes that genuine love for God will manifest in love for others (1 <a href="/john/4-20.htm">John 4:20-21</a>). This echoes Jesus' teaching that the greatest commandments are to love God and love one's neighbor (<a href="/matthew/22-37.htm">Matthew 22:37-40</a>). The indwelling of God's love is evidenced by a life that reflects His love through selfless acts and concern for others.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/john_the_apostle.htm">John the Apostle</a> The author of 1 John, one of Jesus' original twelve disciples, known for his close relationship with Jesus and his emphasis on love and truth in his writings. 2. <a href="/topical/e/early_christian_community.htm">Early Christian Community</a> The audience of John's letter, likely composed of believers facing challenges in living out their faith in a tangible way amidst societal pressures. 3. <a href="/topical/b/brother_in_need.htm">Brother in Need</a> Represents fellow believers or anyone within the community who is experiencing material or emotional lack.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_test_of_genuine_love.htm">The Test of Genuine Love</a> True Christian love is demonstrated through action, not just words. If we claim to have God's love, it should manifest in our willingness to help those in need. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_earthly_possessions.htm">The Role of Earthly Possessions</a> Earthly possessions are tools given by God to be used for His glory and the benefit of others. We are stewards, not owners, of what we have. <a href="/topical/c/compassion_as_a_reflection_of_god's_love.htm">Compassion as a Reflection of God's Love</a> Withholding compassion from those in need questions the authenticity of God's love in us. Our compassion should mirror the selfless love of Christ. <a href="/topical/t/the_community_of_believers.htm">The Community of Believers</a> The early church was characterized by sharing and meeting each other's needs. This model serves as a blueprint for how modern believers should care for one another. <a href="/topical/t/the_heart_of_generosity.htm">The Heart of Generosity</a> Generosity is not just about the act of giving but the heart behind it. A heart transformed by God's love will naturally overflow with generosity.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_john_3.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 John 3</a> <a href="/q/who_is_the_author_of_the_book_of_joel.htm">Is the love of the Father absent in him?</a> <a href="/q/how_do_words_show_kindness_and_truth.htm">How should we treat the poor among us?</a> <a href="/q/how_to_show_daily_compassion.htm">How can we show compassion to others daily?</a> <a href="/q/to_whom_should_i_donate.htm">To whom should I donate?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_john/3.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 17. - "But δέ if a man not only fails to do this, but even steadily contemplates θεωρῇ another's distress, and forthwith (aorist, κλείσῃ closes his heart against him, although he has the means of relieving him, how can he have any love for God?" The meaning is not, "How can God love him?" as is plain from <a href="/1_john/4-20.htm">1 John 4:20</a>. But possibly "love such as God has shown towards us" may be meant (<a href="/1_john/4-10.htm">1 John 4:10</a>). "The world's goods" τὸν βίον τοῦ κόσμου is literally "the world's means of life" (see on 1 John 2:16, and Trench on 'New Testament Synonyms,' for the difference between βίος and ζώη. (For τὰ σπλάγχνα as the seat of the affections, comp. <a href="/luke/1-78.htm">Luke 1:78</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/6-12.htm">2 Corinthians 6:12</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/7-15.htm">2 Corinthians 7:15</a>; <a href="/philippians/1-8.htm">Philippians 1:8</a>; <a href="/philippians/2-1.htm">Philippians 2:1</a>; <a href="/philemon/1-7.htm">Philemon 1:7, 12</a>.) The ἀπ αὐτοῦ is graphic; closes his heart and turns away from him (<a href="/1_john/2-28.htm">1 John 2:28</a>). <a href="/commentaries/1_john/3-17.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>If ἂν (an) Particle <a href="/greek/strongs_302.htm">Strong's 302: </a> A primary particle, denoting a supposition, wish, possibility or uncertainty. anyone ὃς (hos) Personal / Relative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3739.htm">Strong's 3739: </a> Who, which, what, that. with ἔχῃ (echē) Verb - Present Subjunctive Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2192.htm">Strong's 2192: </a> To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold. earthly κόσμου (kosmou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2889.htm">Strong's 2889: </a> Probably from the base of komizo; orderly arrangement, i.e. Decoration; by implication, the world (morally). possessions βίον (bion) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_979.htm">Strong's 979: </a> A primary word; life, i.e. the present state of existence; by implication, the means of livelihood. sees θεωρῇ (theōrē) Verb - Present Subjunctive Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2334.htm">Strong's 2334: </a> From a derivative of theaomai; to be a spectator of, i.e. Discern, (experience) or intensively (acknowledge). his αὐτοῦ (autou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. brother ἀδελφὸν (adelphon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_80.htm">Strong's 80: </a> A brother, member of the same religious community, especially a fellow-Christian. A brother near or remote. [in] ἔχοντα (echonta) Verb - Present Participle Active - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2192.htm">Strong's 2192: </a> To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold. need, χρείαν (chreian) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5532.htm">Strong's 5532: </a> From the base of chraomai or chre; employment, i.e. An affair; also occasion, demand, requirement or destitution. [but] καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. withholds κλείσῃ (kleisē) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2808.htm">Strong's 2808: </a> To shut, shut up. A primary verb; to close. his αὐτοῦ (autou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. compassion σπλάγχνα (splanchna) Noun - Accusative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4698.htm">Strong's 4698: </a> Probably strengthened from splen; an intestine; figuratively, pity or sympathy. from ἀπ’ (ap’) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_575.htm">Strong's 575: </a> From, away from. A primary particle; 'off, ' i.e. Away, in various senses. him, αὐτοῦ (autou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. how πῶς (pōs) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_4459.htm">Strong's 4459: </a> Adverb from the base of pou; an interrogative particle of manner; in what way?; also as exclamation, how much! {can} the ἡ (hē) Article - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. love ἀγάπη (agapē) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_26.htm">Strong's 26: </a> From agapao; love, i.e. Affection or benevolence; specially a love-feast. of God Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. abide μένει (menei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3306.htm">Strong's 3306: </a> To remain, abide, stay, wait; with acc: I wait for, await. A primary verb; to stay. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. him? αὐτῷ (autō) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_john/3-17.htm">1 John 3:17 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_john/3-17.htm">1 John 3:17 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_john/3-17.htm">1 John 3:17 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_john/3-17.htm">1 John 3:17 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_john/3-17.htm">1 John 3:17 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_john/3-17.htm">1 John 3:17 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_john/3-17.htm">1 John 3:17 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_john/3-17.htm">1 John 3:17 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_john/3-17.htm">1 John 3:17 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_john/3-17.htm">1 John 3:17 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_john/3-17.htm">NT Letters: 1 John 3:17 But whoever has the world's goods (1J iJ 1Jn i jn 1 jo) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_john/3-16.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 John 3:16"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 John 3:16" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_john/3-18.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 John 3:18"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 John 3:18" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>