If the word “world” was always used in one uniform and constant sense in the writings of the apostle John, there would be merit to the observation for universal atonement. However, the apostle John admits a variety of connotations. Therefore, the intention of it in one place cannot be the rule for the interpretation of it in another.
Definitions: 1. The whole universe of created beings Jn 1:10, 2. Sometimes, the inhabitable earth Jn 16:28, 3. Sometimes, the inhabitants of it Jn 1:10, 4. Sometimes, unconverted persons, both elect and reprobate Jn 15:19, 5. Sometimes, the worse part of the world, the wicked Jn 17:9, 6. sometimes, the better part of it, the elect Jn 1:29 and Jn 6:33,51, 7. Sometimes, a number of persons, and that a small one in comparison of the rest of mankind Jn 12:19, 9. sometimes, Gentiles as distinguished from Jews 1Jn 2:2, 10. In one place it is used (3X), and in so many senses, Jn 1:10 He was in the “world” (the inhabitable earth), and the “world” (the whole universe) was made by him, and the “world” (the inhabitants of the earth) knew him not (which is not to be understood as them all), for there were some, though few, who did know Him.
I will venture to affirm that the word “world” is always used in the apostle John’s writing in a restricted and limited sense to mean (for some only), except or unless when it is designed to mean the whole universe or inhabitable earth. There is intent in which to use the word incorrectly, for none will say Christ died for the sun, moon, and stars, for fishes, fowls, sticks, and stones. So it is to be observed that it is never used to signify every individual of mankind that has been, is, or shall be in the world, in which sense it must be proved if it is to be used in this manner and if any argument can be concluded from it in favor of universal or general redemption.
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“There is no way to heaven, whatever your hopes may be, but through Christ.
There is no way to the gates of pearl but through the bleeding side of Jesus.
These are the gates of paradise – these bleeding wounds.
If you would find your way to God’s bright throne, find first your way to Jesus’ cross.
If you would know the way to happiness, tread in that path of misery which Jesus trod.
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