1 John 5:19

19 We know, that we be of God, and all the world is set in evil [and all the world is put in wicked].

1 John 5:19 Meaning and Commentary

1 John 5:19

[And] we know that we are of God
The sons of God, and regenerated by him; this is known by the Spirit of God, which witnesses to the spirits of the saints that they are the children of God; and by the fruits and effects of regenerating grace, as love to the brethren, and the like:

and the whole world lies in wickedness;
that is, the men of the world, the greater part of the inhabitants of it, who are as they were when they came into it, not being born of God; these are addicted to sin and, wickedness; the bias of their minds is to it, they are set upon it, and give themselves up to it, are immersed in it, and are under the power of it: or "in the wicked one"; Satan, the god of this world; they are under his influence, and led according to his will, and they are governed by him, and are at his beck and command; and this is known, by sad experience, it is easy of observation;

``And cannot comprehend the things that are promised to the righteous in time to come: for this world is full of unrighteousness and infirmities.'' (2 Esdras 4:27)

1 John 5:19 In-Context

17 Each wickedness is sin, and there is [a] sin to death.

18 We know, that each man that is born of God, sinneth not; but the generation of God keepeth him, and the wicked toucheth him not.

19 We know, that we be of God, and all the world is set in evil [and all the world is put in wicked].

20 And we know, that the Son of God came in flesh, and gave to us wit, that we know him very God, and be in the very Son [Jesus] of him [and be in the very Son Jesus of him]. This is very God, and everlasting life.

21 My little sons, keep ye you from maumets. [Amen.] [Little sons, keep ye you from simulacra, or covetousness. Amen.]