1 John 3:19-20 is one of the more puzzling passages in John's first letter. It seems like circular reasoning. What's more, John talks about deeds and truth together. We often keep our theology strictly about truth. Especially to us today, with our penchant for linear logic, John's statements can seem impenetrable.
Our whole text will be 1 John 3:18-24--what do you think it means?
Grace and Peace,
Joanne G. Hagemeyer