2 John 1:13

The children of your elect sister send you greetings.

Study Bible

The children of your elect sister send you greetings
The children
In the context of 2 John, "the children" likely refers to the members of a Christian community or church. The Greek word used here is "τέκνα" (tekna), which can mean literal offspring or, metaphorically, spiritual children. This reflects the early Christian understanding of the church as a family, where believers are considered children of God and siblings in Christ. The familial language underscores the close-knit relationships and mutual care expected within the Christian community.

of your elect sister
The term "elect" (Greek: "ἐκλεκτή," eklektē) signifies being chosen or selected, often used in the New Testament to describe those who are chosen by God for a specific purpose or destiny. The "elect sister" could be a literal sister of the letter's recipient or, more likely, another church or community of believers. This phrase highlights the interconnectedness of early Christian communities, emphasizing that they are part of a larger, divinely chosen family. The use of "elect" also serves as a reminder of the believers' identity and calling in Christ.

send you greetings
The act of sending greetings was a common practice in ancient letters, serving as a means of expressing fellowship and solidarity. The Greek word for "greetings" is "ἀσπάζονται" (aspazontai), which conveys a sense of warmth and affection. In the context of the early church, such greetings were more than mere formalities; they were expressions of love and unity among believers. This phrase reflects the importance of maintaining connections and encouraging one another in the faith, especially in times of persecution or doctrinal challenges.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Apostle John
The author of the letter, traditionally identified as John the Apostle, one of Jesus' original twelve disciples. He is known for his deep theological insights and emphasis on love and truth.

2. The Elect Lady
The recipient of the letter, possibly a metaphor for a local church or a specific woman of faith. The term "elect" signifies chosen by God, highlighting her esteemed status in the Christian community.

3. The Elect Sister
Mentioned in the closing of the letter, likely referring to another church or a literal sister of the elect lady. This indicates a close relationship and shared faith between the two entities.

4. The Children
Refers to the members of the elect sister's community or the literal children of the elect sister, emphasizing the familial and communal nature of early Christian relationships.

5. The Early Church
The broader context in which this letter was written, characterized by house churches and a strong sense of community among believers.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Christian Fellowship
The greeting from the elect sister's children underscores the value of maintaining connections within the body of Christ. Believers are encouraged to foster relationships with other Christians, both locally and globally.

Understanding Our Identity in Christ
The term "elect" reminds us of our identity as chosen by God. This should inspire confidence and a sense of purpose in our daily walk with Christ.

The Role of Family in Faith
The mention of children highlights the role of family in nurturing faith. Christian parents and communities are called to disciple the next generation, ensuring the continuity of faith.

Unity Among Believers
The mutual greetings reflect the unity and love that should characterize the Church. Believers are encouraged to support and pray for one another, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.

Encouragement in Persecution
The early church faced persecution, and such greetings would have been a source of encouragement. Today, believers can draw strength from the global Christian community, knowing they are not alone in their struggles.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of being "elect" influence your understanding of your identity in Christ?

2. In what ways can you strengthen your connections with other believers in your local church and beyond?

3. How can families today emulate the example of the elect sister's children in supporting and encouraging one another in faith?

4. What practical steps can you take to promote unity and love within your Christian community?

5. How can the global Christian community serve as a source of encouragement and support in times of personal or communal trials?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 John 3:1
This verse speaks of believers as children of God, reinforcing the familial language used in 2 John 1:13.

John 15:16
Jesus speaks of choosing His disciples, which connects to the concept of being "elect" or chosen.

Romans 16:16
Paul sends greetings from one church to another, similar to the greetings in 2 John 1:13, highlighting the unity among early Christians.