A Greeting from the Elder
(3 John 1:1–4)

1THE elder to the elect lady, and to her children, whom I love in the truth: and not I only, but also all who know the truth; 2we all love you, on account of the truth that dwells in us, and which will be with us forever: 3grace be with you, mercy and peace from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.

Walking in the Truth
(John 8:30–47)

4I rejoiced greatly because I found some of your children walking in the truth, as we received commandment from the Father. 5And now I beseech you, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment to you, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another. 6And this is love, that we walk according to his commandments. This is the commandment, as you have heard from the beginning, that you should walk in it.

Beware of Deceivers

7For many deceivers have entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ came in the flesh: this is the deceiver and the antichrist. 8Look to yourselves, that we lose not the things that we have gained, but that we receive a full reward. 9Whoever transgresses, and abides not in the teaching of the Christ, has not God: he that abides in the teaching of the Christ, has both the Father and the Son. 10If any one comes to you, and brings not this teaching, receive him not into your house, and do not wish him well: 11for he that wishes him well, is partaker of his evil deeds.

Conclusion
(3 John 1:13–14)

12Though I have many things to write to you, I determined not to communicate them by means of paper and ink: for I hope to come to you, and to speak mouth to mouth, that our joy may be full.

13The children of your elect sister greet you.