19 And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness.
19 We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one.
19 We know that we are from God, and the whole world lies in the power of the evil one.
19 We know that we are held firm by God; it's only the people of the world who continue in the grip of the Evil One.
19 We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one.
19 We know that we are children of God and that the world around us is under the control of the evil one.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 John 5:19
Commentary on 1 John 5:18-21
(Read 1 John 5:18-21)
All mankind are divided into two parties or dominions; that which belongs to God, and that which belongs to the wicked one. True believers belong to God: they are of God, and from him, and to him, and for him; while the rest, by far the greater number, are in the power of the wicked one; they do his works, and support his cause. This general declaration includes all unbelievers, whatever their profession, station, or situation, or by whatever name they may be called. The Son leads believers to the Father, and they are in the love and favour of both; in union with both, by the indwelling and working of the Holy Spirit. Happy are those to whom it is given to know that the Son of God is come, and to have a heart to trust in and rely on him that is true! May this be our privilege; we shall thus be kept from all idols and false doctrines, and from the idolatrous love of worldly objects, and be kept by the power of God, through faith, unto eternal salvation. To this living and true God, be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.