1 John 1:2

For the life. Rather, “and the life.” The word “life” in v. 1 provides a basis for the further discussion of “life” in v. 2, which is parenthetical, being a digression from the main current of thought. The sentence construction of vs. 1-3 is complicated, the completion of the thought being in suspense until v. 3, where the writer gathers up his argument into a comprehensive conclusion. “The life” refers primarily to that aspect of Christ’s being which was revealed in His incarnation, not to His eternal pre-existence.

Was manifested. Gr. phanerod, “to make known,” “to make visible,” “to make manifest,” “to show.” John makes frequent use of phanerod (nine times in the Gospel and six times in the epistle). This manifestation of life corresponds to “the Word was made flesh” in John 1:14, and refers to the incarnation viewed by the dwellers on earth who beheld its glory.

Several of John’s favorite words appear in vs. 1-3, although the KJV sometimes obscures the identity of the original word. Arche, “beginning,” appears 23 times in his writings; zoe, “life,” 64 times; manured, “to bear witness,” 47 times.

We have seen. The apostle had not only seen and heard “concerning” the Word of life (v. 1) but had also perceived its significance as “life” (see on John 1:4).

Bear witness. John was not content with having beheld Christ; he was also impelled to “bear witness” to what he had seen (cf. on Acts 1:8).

Shew. Gr. apaggello, “to bring tidings,” “to proclaim,” “to declare.” The same word is translated “declare” in v. 3.

That eternal life. The association of “life” with “eternal” occurs 23 times in John’s writings. He thinks in terms of eternity, and stresses the eternal nature of his beloved Lord and of the life he anticipates sharing with Him (see on John 3:16).

With the Father. Gr. pros ton patera (see comment on “with God,” in John 1:1). The word pros, “with,” expresses the nearness of the Word to the Father and at the same time makes clear His separate personality. Although John has not yet mentioned the Son by name, his use of the title “Father” implies the Sonship of the Word and prepares the way for the open identification of the Word as Jesus Christ in 1 John 1:3.

Manifested unto us. The writer is filled with awe at the realization of the privilege granted to him of seeing the One who had been with the Father from eternity. The splendor of the revelation never grows dim in John’s mind. Rather, it remains in the center of his spiritual vision (cf. John 1:14, 18).