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

1THE presbyter to the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all who have known the truth: 2because of the truth which abideth in us, and shall be with us for ever: 3grace, mercy, peace be with you 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 that I found thy children walking in truth, as we have received commandment from the Father. 5And now I beseech thee, lady, not as writing to thee a new commandment, but that which we have had from the beginning, that we should love one another. 6And this is love, that we should walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, as ye have heard from the beginning, That ye should walk in it.

Beware of Deceivers

7For many deceivers are gone out into the world, who do not confess Jesus the Messiah as come in the flesh. Such a one is a deceiver and an antichrist. 8Take heed to yourselves that we lose not the things which we have wrought, but receive a full reward. 9Every one that transgresseth and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God: he that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, this man holdeth both the Father and the Son. 10If any person come unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into the house, nor say to him, Welcome. 11He that biddeth him welcome, takes part in his wicked works.

Conclusion
(3 John 1:13–14)

12Having many things to write unto you, I would not do it with paper and ink; but I hope to come unto you, and speak mouth to mouth, that our joy may be complete.

13The children of thy elect sister salute thee. Amen.