Commentaries:
Robertson's Word Pictures (NT)
Anointing (xrisma). Old word for result (mat) and for the material, from xriw, to anoint, perhaps suggested by the use of antixristoi in verse I John 2:18. Christians are "anointed ones," xristoi in this sense, with which compare Psalms 105:15: "Touch not my anointed ones" (mh ayhsqe twn xristwn mou). These antichrists posed as the equals of or even superior to Christ himself. But followers of Christ do have "the oil of anointing" (to elaion tou xrismatov, Exodus 29:7), the Holy Spirit. This word in the N.T. only here and verse I John 2:27. Later the term was applied to baptism after baptismal remission came to be taught (Tertullian, etc.).
From the Holy One (apo tou agiou). They receive this anointing of the Holy Spirit from the Anointed One, Jesus Christ (the Holy One). Cf. John 6:69; Acts 3:14.
And ye know all things (kai oidate panta). But the best MSS. read pantev rather than panta, "Ye all know it." This anointing is open to all Christians, not just a select few.
Other Robertson's Word Pictures (NT) entries containing 1 John 2:20:
John 17:11
2 Corinthians 1:21
1 John 2:27
1 John 4:3
1 John 5:18
Revelation 3:7
DISCLAIMER: Church of the Great God (CGG) provides these resources to aid the individual in studying the Bible. However, it is up to the individual to "prove all things, and hold fast to that which is good" (I Thessalonians 5:21). The content of these resources does not necessarily reflect the views of CGG. They are provided for information purposes only.