Paragraph 2:28–29

Read 2:28–29 in both Berean Standard Bible and Good News Translation. Compare the two versions.

Paragraph Theme: These verses give the main theme of Section 2:28–4:6. John says that in order not to be ashamed when Christ returns we must remain in union with him and do what is right.

2:28a

now: (Multiple Senses) The Greek word here is not being used in the sense of “at this time.” It means “therefore/so.” John is repeating his instruction from the previous verse, “continue in Christ,” and going on to state one purpose for doing this.

2:28b

when He appears: (Background Information) This refers to Christ returning to earth from heaven at some time in the future.

2:28c

confident and unashamed before Him: (Meaning) John means that he and his readers could meet Jesus face to face without being ashamed or afraid. They would have this confidence if they have been living righteous lives in fellowship with Jesus by the help of the Holy Spirit.

confident and unashamed: (Emphasis) Here again John uses a positive-negative repetition for emphasis.

at His coming: (Meaning) This means the same as “when He appears” in 2:28b. If it is not natural in your language to repeat the meaning like this, it can be omitted.

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All Scripture quotations in this publication, unless otherwise indicated, are from The Holy Bible, Berean Standard Bible. BSB is produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee.