1 John 2:1-2

The James Method Verse Mapping

I’m continuing in my journey through 1 John, mapping a verse or two at a time. Since I’m new at this practice, I’m still trying to figure out the best approach and timing. I went through this one a bit slower, trying to savor it and think it through a bit more.

1 John 2:1-2

My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. ² He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.

One thing that really struck me as I went through this verse was the idea of sin. All three of the verse maps I’ve done in 1 John have sin as a key word. Why is sin such a big deal? It is the only thing that stands between unrighteous humans and a holy and righteous God. Not only has Jesus come to pay the penalty for our sins, but he stands between us and God as a mediator, proclaiming his righteousness rather than our sins. He will do this for anyone who believes in his name.