2:27 anointing. See I John 2:20. The anointing we have received from the Holy Spirit never needs to be repeated, for it abides in us and we shall abide in Him.

2:27 teach you. This in no way denigrates the value of God-called teachers (note Ephesians 4:11; Acts 13:1), but does indicate that each believer is capable and responsible to study the Word for himself or herself. The Holy Spirit inspired the Scriptures, and has anointed and indwells each believer, who therefore does not need other believers to tell him what to believe. He can certainly request and receive help from others, but in the last analysis he is able and responsible to know and believe the truth himself. Otherwise, he may not end up as a “workman that needeth not to be ashamed” (II Timothy 2:15) when the Lord comes (I John 2:28).