1 John 4:5

“They are of the world, &c.] That is, the false prophets and teachers that were gone into the world, and had the spirit of antichrist in them; these were as they were when they came into the world, under the pollution, guilt, and dominion of sin, in a state of unregeneracy, carnality, and darkness; they properly belonged unto it, and walked after the course of it, and were under the influence of the god of it, who led them into error; and were sensual, and indulged themselves in worldly lusts, and were seeking after worldly things; supposed that gain was godliness, and had men's persons in admiration because of advantage; their nature and disposition, their principles and practices, and their…”

“of the world--They derive their spirit and teaching from the world, "unregenerate human nature, ruled over and possessed by Satan, the prince of this world" [ALFORD]. speak they of the word--They draw the matter of their conversation from the life, opinions, and feelings of the world. the world heareth them-- (Joh 15:18-19). The world loves its own.”

“They are of the world - This was one of the marks by which those who had the spirit of antichrist might be known. They belonged not to the church of God, but to the world. They had its spirit; they acted on its principles; they lived for it. Compare the notes at 1 John 2:15. Therefore speak they of the world - Compare the notes at John 3:31. This may mean either that their conversation pertained to the things of this world, or that they were wholly influenced by the love of the world, and not by the Spirit of God, in the doctrines which they taught. The general sense is, that they had no higher ends and aims than they have who are influenced only by worldly plans and expectations. It is not…”

“They - Those false prophets. Are of the world - Of the number of those that know not God. Therefore speak they of the world - From the same principle, wisdom, spirit; and, of consequence, the world heareth them - With approbation. 1 John 4:6”

“4:5 The world’s viewpoint is one of systematic evil, opposed to God (2:15-17).”

“are: Psa 17:4; Luk 16:8; Joh 3:31, Joh 7:6, Joh 7:7, Joh 8:23, Joh 15:19, Joh 15:20, Joh 17:14, Joh 17:16; Rev 12:9 and: Isa 30:10, Isa 30:11; Jer 5:31, Jer 29:8; Mic 2:11; Joh 15:19, Joh 17:14; Ti2 4:3; Pe2 2:2, Pe2 2:3 1 John 4:6”