2 John 1:9

Anyone who runs ahead without remaining in the teaching of Christ does not have God. Whoever remains in His teaching has both the Father and the Son.

Study Bible

Anyone who runs ahead
The phrase "Anyone who runs ahead" suggests a departure from established doctrine or truth. In the Greek, the word used here is "proagō," which means to go before or to lead forward. This implies a sense of moving beyond the boundaries of what has been taught by the apostles. Historically, this can be seen as a warning against the early Gnostic movements that claimed secret knowledge beyond the gospel. Theologically, it serves as a caution against pride and the temptation to innovate beyond the foundational truths of Christianity.

and does not remain in the teaching of Christ
The phrase "and does not remain in the teaching of Christ" emphasizes the importance of abiding in the core doctrines of the faith. The Greek word "menō" means to stay, abide, or remain. This suggests a continuous, steadfast commitment to the teachings of Jesus as delivered by the apostles. Theologically, this underscores the necessity of orthodoxy and fidelity to the gospel message. It is a call to hold fast to the truth as revealed in Scripture, resisting the allure of new or divergent teachings.

does not have God
The phrase "does not have God" is a stark warning about the spiritual consequences of deviating from the truth. In the Greek, "echō" means to have or possess. This implies that a relationship with God is contingent upon adherence to the true teachings of Christ. Historically, this reflects the early church's struggle against heresies that threatened the purity of the gospel. Theologically, it serves as a reminder that true fellowship with God is inseparable from the truth of His Word.

Whoever remains in His teaching
The phrase "Whoever remains in His teaching" reiterates the importance of abiding in the doctrine of Christ. The use of "menō" again highlights the necessity of a continuous, faithful adherence to the teachings of Jesus. This is not merely intellectual assent but a lived commitment to the truth. Historically, this reflects the early church's emphasis on apostolic teaching as the standard of truth. Theologically, it underscores the promise of divine fellowship for those who remain faithful to the gospel.

has both the Father and the Son
The phrase "has both the Father and the Son" speaks to the fullness of relationship available to those who abide in the truth. The Greek "echō" again implies possession or relationship. This highlights the Trinitarian nature of Christian faith, where knowing Christ is inseparable from knowing the Father. Historically, this affirms the early church's understanding of the unity of the Godhead. Theologically, it assures believers of the complete and intimate fellowship with God that comes through faithfulness to the teachings of Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. John the Apostle
The author of this epistle, John was one of Jesus' closest disciples and is traditionally understood to be the "beloved disciple." He wrote this letter to warn against false teachings and to encourage adherence to the true doctrine of Christ.

2. The Elect Lady and Her Children
The recipients of the letter, possibly a specific woman and her family or a metaphorical reference to a local church and its members.

3. False Teachers
Individuals who were spreading teachings contrary to the doctrine of Christ, likely Gnostic influences that denied the incarnation of Jesus.

4. The Teaching of Christ
Refers to the core doctrines and teachings that Jesus imparted, which are foundational to Christian faith.

5. God the Father and God the Son
Central figures in Christian theology, emphasizing the relationship and unity between the Father and the Son, which is essential to the Christian faith.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Sound Doctrine
Remaining in the teaching of Christ is crucial for maintaining a true relationship with God. Sound doctrine acts as a safeguard against deception and false teachings.

The Danger of Innovation in Doctrine
"Running ahead" suggests moving beyond or outside the established teachings of Christ. This can lead to spiritual peril and separation from God.

Unity of the Father and the Son
Understanding and accepting the unity between the Father and the Son is essential for a complete and authentic Christian faith.

Vigilance Against False Teachings
Christians must be discerning and vigilant, testing all teachings against the truth of Scripture to ensure they align with the teachings of Christ.

Abiding in Christ
A continuous, active relationship with Christ through His teachings is necessary for spiritual growth and assurance of salvation.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to "run ahead" of the teaching of Christ, and how can we guard against this in our own lives?

2. How does remaining in the teaching of Christ ensure that we have both the Father and the Son?

3. In what ways can we identify and respond to false teachings in our current cultural context?

4. How does the unity of the Father and the Son impact our understanding of the Christian faith and our relationship with God?

5. Reflect on a time when adhering to sound doctrine helped you navigate a challenging situation. How can this experience encourage others in their faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 15:4-7
This passage emphasizes the importance of abiding in Christ, similar to how 2 John 1:9 stresses remaining in the teaching of Christ.

1 John 2:23
This verse highlights the relationship between acknowledging the Son and having the Father, reinforcing the idea that one cannot have God without adhering to the teachings of Christ.

Galatians 1:6-9
Paul warns against turning to a different gospel, which parallels John's warning against running ahead without remaining in Christ's teaching.