Upon examining the text of chapters 1 and 2, I don't see John referring to non Christians. Why would John want fellowship with non Christians?You're not going to like this, but I don't see it as an escape clause. Verse 9 follows verse 8 which is not about a Christian; therefore, verse 9 is how to become a Christian. Once a true Christian, then they are verse 7. A true Christian is dead to sin, and not in the flesh because they are following the Spirit, but only if they have truly repented in the first place and have received the promised Spirit. So if they don't commit willful sin, which is the kind meant, then verse 9 is no longer needed by a true Christian.
7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
bugkiller
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