1 John 2:28

And now. These words mark the conclusion of the first part of the epistle and do not have any particular reference to the time when John was writing. Reaching the climax of his reasoning, John solemnly exhorts his readers on the basis of what he has written in vs. 18-27.

Little children. Gr. teknia (see on v. 1).

Abide in him. That is, in Christ. This is direct counsel to take the action recommended in v. 27, in view of the anticipated return of Jesus (see on v. 18). Only those who abide in Christ will be prepared to meet Him at His coming (cf. Matt. 24:13; John 15:6).

When he shall appear. Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 10) the reading, “if he shall be manifested.” No uncertainty is implied, however (compare the clauses, “if I be lifted up” and “if I go and prepare a place for you” in John 12:32; 14:3). Rather, the words imply strong assurance. Elsewhere John stresses the reality of Christ’s return (see 1 John 3:2; cf. John 14:1-3; 21:22; Rev. 1:7; 22:12, 20), but recognizes the uncertainty of the time of Christ’s appearing (cf. on Matt. 24:36-44).

Confidence. Gr. parresia, originally, “freedom of speech,” hence, “boldness” (see on Acts 4:13), used by John 13 of the 31 times it occurs in the NT. The picture is of one who, having consistently abided in Christ, has no fear of meeting Him at His coming. Those who spend this life with their Lord will welcome Him at His coming (cf. Isa. 25:9). Repentant sinners will greet Him, not with the boldness of self-confidence, but with the quiet assurance that they are children of God.

Ashamed. Again John emphasizes his meaning by restating it negatively (cf. chs. 1:5, 6, 8; 2:4, 27; etc.). In so doing he sets forth the attitude of those who have not prepared to meet their Lord. They will be filled with shame as they face the prospect of meeting Him whom they have despised and rejected. They will be ashamed of their treatment of the Redeemer and of their own sinful record. They will realize that the blame for their loss of eternal life is all their own (cf. on Rev. 6:15—17). But those who abide in Christ may look forward with joy to His coming.

Coming. Gr. parousia (see on Matt. 24:3), used only here by John, but often in the writings of Paul (1 Cor. 15:23; Phil. 1:26; 1 Thess. 2:19; etc.), Matthew (Matt. 24:3, 27, 37, 39), James (James 5:7, 8), and Peter (2 Peter 1:16; 3:4, 12).