In 1 John 4:13, John writes that God has given us “of His Spirit.” In 1 John 3:24, it says that He has given us His Spirit. I would like an explanation of the term “of His Spirit.” Does this mean that we have only part of this Spirit?

Answer:

The phrase “of His Spirit” is indeed striking and unique. It clearly differs from phrases like “the Spirit whom He has given us” (1 John 3:24). There, the gift of the Holy Spirit as a person is in view. Here, the focus is on what proceeds from that Spirit and works in us.

The preposition “of” emphasizes origin and source. It does not mean that God gave the believer “a part” of His Spirit. That idea is absurd and foreign to the Bible. The Holy Spirit is a divine person and therefore indivisible. Rather, it highlights that what works in us has its origin in God Himself. It therefore bears His character.

Meaning of “of His Spirit”

In this sense, “of His Spirit” describes the inner effect and communication of what God is. The Spirit of God is God and now dwells in believers. If we do not hinder Him, He produces in us what matches God’s nature. This is especially love (cf. 1 John 4:12, 16). It also includes truth and holiness. The believer is not “deified” in essence. Yet he is morally shaped by what proceeds from God (cf. 2 Peter 1:4).

Certainty Through Visible Effect

John links this with an important assurance. The fact that we have received “of His Spirit” shows itself first in a visible effect. It is not shown primarily in an inner feeling. Where divine love becomes active, this becomes clear. Where the life of Jesus takes moral shape, it is evident. Then it becomes evident that God remains in us, and we in Him.

Summary

The phrase links the objective reality of the Spirit dwelling in us. It also links the subjective experience of His working. In this way, abiding in God becomes visible and recognizable.