See in Reader
1022 B
General Information:
Here the words "we" and "us" refer to John and all believers. The words "him" and "his" could refer to God the Father or to Jesus. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive)
Connecting Statement:
John continues to write about fellowship and shows that it is possible because Jesus goes between believers and the Father.
Children
John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. AT: "My dear children in Christ" or "You who are as dear to me as my own children" (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor)
I am writing these things
"I am writing this letter"
But if anyone sins
"But when anyone sins." This is something that is likely to happen.
we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, the one who is righteous
The word "advocate" here refers to Jesus. AT: "we have Jesus Christ, the one who is righteous, who speaks to the Father and asks him to forgive us" (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit)