Matthew Henry Commentary 1 John 5:1-5

"Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is begotten of God: and whosoever loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him. Hereby we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and do his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. For whatsoever is begotten of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that hath overcome the world, [even] our faith. And who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?" — 1 John 5:1-5 (ASV)

True love for the people of God may be distinguished from natural kindness or party attachments by its union with the love of God and obedience to his commands. The same Holy Spirit who taught this love also taught obedience. Therefore, a person who habitually commits sin or neglects known duty cannot truly love the children of God. Since God's commands are holy, just, and good rules of liberty and happiness, those who are born of God and love him do not consider them grievous, but lament that they cannot serve him more perfectly.

Self-denial is required, but true Christians have a principle that carries them above all hindrances. Though the conflict is often sharp, and the regenerate person may be cast down, yet he will rise up and renew his combat with resolution. But all, except believers in Christ, are enslaved in one way or another to the customs, opinions, or interests of the world. Faith is the cause of victory, the means, the instrument, the spiritual armour by which we overcome.

In and by faith we cleave to Christ, in contempt of, and in opposition to the world. Faith sanctifies the heart and purifies it from those sensual lusts by which the world obtains sway and dominion over souls. It has the indwelling Spirit of grace, which is greater than he who dwells in the world. The real Christian overcomes the world by faith; he sees, in and by the life and conduct of the Lord Jesus on earth, that this world is to be renounced and overcome.

He cannot be satisfied with this world, but looks beyond it, and is continually moving, striving, and pressing toward heaven. We must all, after Christ's example, overcome the world, or it will overcome us to our ruin.