Understanding 1 John 1:8 in Simple Terms
Let’s talk about something we rarely discuss these days: sin. It’s a word that’s gone a bit out of fashion in our culture, but it’s fundamental to understanding ourselves and our need for growth and change.
1 John 1:8 puts it plainly: “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” In other words, if we pretend that we’re perfect or that we don’t ever do anything wrong, we’re only fooling ourselves—and missing the truth about who we really are.
So, what exactly is “sin”? In simple terms, sin means going against what’s right or good. It’s those actions, thoughts, or attitudes that hurt others, ourselves, or our relationship with God. Sometimes, it’s obvious—like lying, cheating, or being cruel. Other times, it’s hidden—like pride, selfishness, or refusing to admit when we’re wrong.
The message in 1 John goes deeper. It says that claiming to be without sin isn’t just unrealistic; it blocks us from real honesty and healthy relationships—with both God and the people around us. Think about it: none of us is perfect. We’ve all made mistakes, big or small. Admitting this is not about beating ourselves up, but about being humble and honest.
Back when this letter was written, some people believed they could reach a state of “sinless perfection”—never messing up again. 1 John warns against this kind of thinking. The truth is, no matter how hard we try, we all have flaws and moments we regret. That’s part of being human.
Why does this matter? Because pretending we’re perfect isolates us. It keeps us from growing, from accepting help, and from connecting honestly with others. When we admit our faults, we open the door to forgiveness, improvement, and understanding.
The Bible also teaches that God is “light”—pure and perfect. We’re invited to “walk in the light,” which means living truthfully and doing our best to do what’s right. But the journey is not about pretending we’re spotless; it’s about recognizing where we fall short and being willing to change.
And here’s the good news: the Christian message isn’t just about pointing out where we go wrong. It’s about hope. The belief is that Jesus came to help us deal with our mistakes, not through shame, but through forgiveness and transformation.
To sum it up, 1 John 1:8 reminds us that:
· We all have faults—nobody is perfect.
· Denying our mistakes only fools ourselves.
· Admitting where we fall short is the first step toward real change and healthy relationships.
· There’s always a path to forgiveness and a fresh start.
So next time you hear the word “sin,” don’t tune out. See it as a chance to be honest—with yourself, with others, and (if you’re a person of faith) with God. Admitting our flaws takes courage, but it also opens the way for growth, healing, and real connection.
Minister A Francine Green
November 2025
afrancinegreen.com 