1Jo 3:18-19 | RWP | e4.org | In word, neither with the tongue ( λογω μηδε τη γλωσση ). Either instrumental or locative makes sense. What John means is "not merely by word or by the tongue." He does not condemn kind words which are comforting and cheering, but warm words should be accompanied by warm deeds to make real "in deed and in truth" ( εν εργω κα αληθεια ). Here is a case where actions do speak louder than mere words.

‏ 1 John 3:18-19

In word, neither with the tongue ( λογω μηδε τη γλωσση ). Either instrumental or locative makes sense. What John means is "not merely by word or by the tongue." He does not condemn kind words which are comforting and cheering, but warm words should be accompanied by warm deeds to make real "in deed and in truth" ( εν εργω κα αληθεια ). Here is a case where actions do speak louder than mere words.

Shall we know ( γνωσομεθα ). Future middle indicative of γινωσκω, at any future emergency, we shall come to know by this ( εν τουτω ) "that we are of the truth" ( οτ εκ της αληθειας εσμεν ).

Before him ( εμπροσθεν αυτου ). In the very presence of God we shall have confident assurance ( πεισομεν την καρδιαν ημων, either we shall persuade our heart or shall assure our heart) because God understands us.