Doesn’t John contradict himself when he asserts that Christians are without sin?

In 1 John 3:9 John affirms here that “Whoever has been born of God does not sin.” But in the first chapter he insisted that “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us” (1 John 1:8).

1 John 2:28 - 3:10

NKJV - ²⁸ And now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming. ²⁹ If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone who practices righteousness is born of Him.

Clarify • Share • Report • Asked February 26 2026 • Jack Gutknecht Supporter