A socio-rhetorical investigation of the Johannine understanding of "the works of the devil " in 1 John 3:8

Abstract

Using the methodological approach of Socio-rhetorical Analysis, this study focuses on understanding the phrase in 1 John 3:8, “the works of the devil,” from the standpoint of the original audience. A comprehensive investigation of this phrase contributes toward theological discourse about the Johannine understanding of the devil/evil and cosmic conflict. By juxtaposing the results of a number of temporarily bounded studies, the meaning of the phrase, “the works of the devil,” is seen in its historical, cultural, and literary context. The literary context of the phrase under investigation involves two pericopes at the center of 1 John: 3:4-10, and 3:11-18, where the author’s cosmic eschatological theology is presented in a chiastic climax. Inner texture analysis of these pericopes reveals complex rhetorical transitions that focus attention on the destruction of the works of the devil. Repetitive-progressive texture charts and discourse analysis of these pericopes uncover the key terms and relationships of these terms, contributing toward an understanding of the meaning of the phrase, “the works of the devil.” Scribal inter-texture analysis compares the use of these terms in other biblical and extra-biblical literature, including an original analysis of 1QS 4:15-25. In short, the works of the devil, according to 1 John and the Gospel of John, supplemented by historical evidence of ancient culture and writings, would have been seen by early Johannine believers as equated with that which leads to death. Examples show that this could be physical death, as in the example of Cain, or of disease, or spiritual death, as in the example of idols which represent unbelief, evil work, false approaches to God, and disobedience to God’s commands. While the devil’s works can be summarized as bringing death—both physical (disease and deformity, social chaos, mental chaos) and spiritual (unbelief, hatred),the Son of God appeared to give life (1 John 4:9). The appearing of the Son of God is seen to result in works and characteristics that are the opposite of those associated with the sin of the devil, thus nullifying or destroying them.