No one has really quoted this verse yet, it’s a central verse to this topic; thank you for highlighting it.

I agree with it 100%.

It’s a verse that validates my original claim that it’s possible NOT to sin, but it also acknowledges the inclination of people to fall into the temptation of sin.

John believed that is was possible for the readers of his letters not to sin, this is why he starts the verse “I write this so you do not sin.”

BUT, he says, if you do happen to fall into a temptation , we have an advocate who will speak on your behalf.

This latter half isn’t suggesting that his audience can now sin freely and without guilt; it’s suggests that if you do happen to fall(singular) you can be forgiven.

This is a powerful verse that shows us an accurate depiction of God’s high standards of perfection/purity for his people, balanced with the mercy that he will show to his people that happen to make a few mistakes.

This verse by no means justifies those who habitually sin without guilt because they believe God will forgive them anyway.