Lutheran Lens Commentary: 1 John 2:1-6

Lutheran Lens Reading of 1 John 2:1-6

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

In 1 John 2:1-6, we read this passage as a vivid exposition of the interplay between Law and Gospel. The text underscores our call to walk as Christ walked, which the Law reveals as an impossible task for the old Adam, exposing our sin and the bondage of our will. Yet, it also delivers the Gospel promise that Jesus Christ is our Advocate and propitiation for our sins, highlighting justification by faith alone. We see this as a call to embrace our baptismal identity, living out our vocation under the grace freely given through Christ's atoning work.

Key Language Decisions

In this passage, the Greek term 'paraklētos' (Advocate) emphasizes Christ’s ongoing role as our intercessor, which aligns with our understanding of Christ’s active work in our justification. The term 'hilasmos' (propitiation) signifies Christ's atoning sacrifice, resonating with our focus on the theology of the cross. These terms in the original Greek support our emphasis on Christ’s completed work for our salvation, underscoring that righteousness is not achieved by human effort but received by faith.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our Lutheran reading diverges from the Reformed tradition, which might emphasize sanctification as evidence of salvation, by maintaining the simul justus et peccator dynamic — we are fully righteous in Christ yet fully sinners. Unlike the Catholic tradition, which ties justification to sanctification and the sacraments as necessary for salvation, we affirm that justification is by faith alone, through the means of grace. This distinction matters because it places the assurance of salvation solely on Christ’s completed work, not on human effort or merit.

Pastoral Application

When preaching this passage, a Lutheran Lens pastor should emphasize that Christ is both our Advocate and the propitiation for our sins, providing comfort and assurance to the conscience burdened by the Law. The congregation should hear that their righteousness is not dependent on their ability to walk perfectly but on Christ’s perfect obedience imputed to them. By focusing on justification by faith alone, pastors should reassure believers of their baptismal identity, encouraging them to live out their vocations in gratitude, knowing they are simultaneously saint and sinner. This message of grace and assurance is what the congregation expects to hear.

Cross-References: Romans 3:24-26; Hebrews 7:25; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Galatians 3:24; John 14:16

Doctrinal Connections: justification by faith alone; simul justus et peccator; the theology of the cross; baptismal identity; the bondage of the will