The scripture continually comforts us with the remembrance of access granted Christians to the Father. Jesus is the one Mediator and Advocate Who has allowed us such access by His righteous act of being the propitiation for our sins (cf. 2:1-2; 1 Timothy 2:5). We can have confidence in our prayers ascending to the throne of God (cf. Revelation 5:8). He hears us when “we ask anything according to His will.”

In this epistle, John has harped on the love brethren are to have one for another. Included in this is prayer on behalf of each other (cf. James 5:16). He instructs to pray for a brother who is “sinning a sin which does not lead to death.” Sin does not lead to death when the offender repents and turns to God (cf. 1:9; 2:1-2). When petition is made on behalf of a penitent heart God gives life to the penitent (v. 16). However, “there is sin leading to death.” Sin leads to death when the offender’s heart is hardened against the one who can forgive and save him (cf. 1:8; 3:8). John writes, “I do not say that he should pray about that.” It is not God’s will to forgive one who continues in sin.

“All unrighteousness is sin, and there is sin not leading to death.” John does not make little the gravity of offense toward God. He does allude to the mercy of our God Who forgives those who turn from walking in darkness to walking in light. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us form all unrighteousness” (1:9).