◄ 2 John 1 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
A Greeting from the Elder (3 John 1:1–4) 1The elder, To the chosen lady and her children, whom I love in the truth—and not I alone, but also all who know the truth— 2because of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever: 3Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, will be with us in truth and love. Walking in the Truth (John 8:30–47) 4I was overjoyed to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father has commanded us. 5And now I urge you, dear lady—not as a new commandment to you, but one we have had from the beginning—that we love one another. 6And this is love, that we walk according to His commandments. This is the very commandment you have heard from the beginning, that you must walk in love. Beware of Deceivers 7For many deceivers have gone out into the world, refusing to confess the coming of Jesus Christ in the flesh. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. 8Watch yourselves, so that you do not lose what we have worked for,a but that you may be fully rewarded. 9Anyone 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. 10If anyone comes to you but does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your home or even greet him. 11Whoever greets such a person shares in his evil deeds. Conclusion (3 John 1:13–14) 12I have many things to write to you, but I would prefer not to do so with paper and ink. Instead, I hope to come and speak with you face to face,b so that our joy may be complete. 13The children of your elect sister send you greetings.c Footnotes: 8 a NE and WH what you have worked for 12 b Literally mouth to mouth 13 c BYZ and TR include Amen. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 2 John 1 Summary Walking in the Truth Verses 1–3 – Greeting in Truth and Love John, calling himself “the elder,” writes to “the chosen lady and her children,” assuring them that he and all who know the truth love them. He blesses them with grace, mercy, and peace that come “in truth and love.” Verses 4–6 – Walking in the Commandment of Love John rejoices that some of her children are living faithfully. He reminds them of the “command we have had from the beginning”—that we love one another. True love is defined as walking according to God’s commands, not by feelings alone. Verses 7–11 – Guarding Against Deceivers Many deceivers have gone out, denying “Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh.” Such a person is “the deceiver and the antichrist.” Believers must watch themselves, hold to the teaching of Christ, and refuse to aid or encourage those who promote error, lest they share in their wicked work. Verses 12–13 – Concluding Words John hopes to visit soon so their joy may be complete. He sends greetings from “the children of your chosen sister.” The second letter of John, one of the smallest books in the New Testament, carries an enormous message filled with love, truth, and the critical instruction of adhering to the teachings of Christ. Addressed to the 'chosen lady and her children,' this personal epistle penned by John emphasizes the importance of walking in love and truth while remaining vigilant against deceivers. Authorship and Date • External testimony (Church Fathers such as Irenaeus and Clement of Alexandria) and shared language with 1 John and 3 John point to the apostle John writing near the end of the first century, likely AD 85–95, from Ephesus or its vicinity. • The self-designation “the elder” hints at John’s advanced age and respected status among the churches of Asia Minor. Recipients: “The Chosen Lady and Her Children” • Literal view: a Christian woman hosting a house-church, with “children” as her offspring or household. • Metaphorical view: a congregation personified as a lady; “children” are its members. • Early church letters often used code-language during persecution. Either way, the message applies to both households and congregations. Historical Backdrop • Asia Minor teemed with itinerant teachers. Many were faithful, yet others spread early Gnostic ideas that denied Jesus’ real humanity (docetism). • John counters this by insisting that authentic Christianity confesses Jesus “coming in the flesh.” Truth and Love—Twin Rails of Christian Life John never lets love drift away from truth, nor truth become cold without love. – John 1:14: “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us… full of grace and truth.” – Ephesians 4:15: “Speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ.” The letter calls believers to: 1. Know the truth (sound teaching about Christ). 2. Live the truth (obedient love). 3. Defend the truth (reject false teachers). Key Command Re-stated Verse 5 echoes Jesus’ “new command” in John 13:34. Love is never new in content, only fresh in its call to be practiced daily. Warning Against False Teachers • Verse 7: “For many deceivers have gone out into the world—those who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is the deceiver and the antichrist.” • Compare 1 John 2:18–23; 4:2–3. • Practical application: hospitality was vital for traveling evangelists (3 John 5–8), but Christians must not aid those who oppose core truth. Verse 10: “Do not receive him into your home or greet him.” The Greek term for greet, chairo, carried a blessing; to offer it implied partnership. Christology at the Center The test of a teacher is who they say Jesus is. John affirms: – True deity (John 1:1). – True humanity (“in the flesh”). – Saving mission (1 John 4:10). Denying any of these is to step outside Christian bounds. “Lose What We Have Worked For” (v. 8) • The reward in view is not salvation earned by works but the “full reward” of faithful service—compare 1 Corinthians 3:14. • Perseverance guards believers from wasted efforts and damaged witness. Early Christian Hospitality and House-Church Life • Archaeological finds in Ephesus, Pergamum, and Smyrna show homes adapted for gatherings: cushions set around an atrium, oil-lamp niches for night meetings. • Papyrus letters from the era average the same length as 2 John (around 200 Greek words). This brevity fit on a single sheet, easily carried by a courier. Encouragement of Personal Fellowship (v. 12) • Hand-inked letters were valuable, yet “face to face” fellowship completed their joy. • Hebrews 10:25 backs the priority of meeting together, especially under pressure. Practical Takeaways 1. Hold the line on foundational truth without growing harsh. 2. Let every act of love be anchored in obedience to God’s commands. 3. Practice wise hospitality—open doors to faithful workers, close them to those who dismantle the gospel. 4. Value in-person community; letters, calls, and screens cannot replace embodied fellowship. Connections with the Wider New Testament • Matthew 7:15-20—Jesus’ warning about false prophets aligns with John’s. • 2 Thessalonians 3:6—Paul likewise instructs separating from disobedient believers. • Revelation 2–3—John’s messages to the seven churches mirror the same urgency for truth and love. Outline for Memory – Greeting in truth and love (vv. 1-3) – Walking in love by obedience (vv. 4-6) – Recognizing and avoiding deceivers (vv. 7-11) – Anticipating joyful face-to-face fellowship (vv. 12-13) Closing Perspective John’s second letter may be the shortest in the New Testament, yet its message is towering: truth without love hardens, love without truth crumbles, but joined together they preserve God’s people and glorify Christ. Connections to Additional Scriptures John 14:15 If you love Me, you will keep My commandments. This verse underscores the connection between love and obedience. 1 John 4:1 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God. This complements John's warning against deceivers. Ephesians 4:15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ Himself, who is the head. This verse highlights the balance of truth and love in spiritual growth. Teaching Points The Importance of Truth and Love John emphasizes the inseparable nature of truth and love in the Christian life. I rejoiced greatly to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father has commanded us (2 John 1:4). Obedience to God's Commandments Love is demonstrated through obedience. And this is love, that we walk according to His commandments (2 John 1:6). Warning Against Deceivers John warns of those who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. Many deceivers have gone out into the world (2 John 1:7). Guarding the Doctrine of Christ Believers are urged to remain steadfast in the teachings of Christ. Anyone who runs ahead without remaining in the teaching of Christ does not have God (2 John 1:9). Practical Applications Evaluate Your Walk Regularly assess whether your life reflects the truth and love of Christ. Practice Obedience Make a conscious effort to obey God's commandments as an expression of your love for Him. Discernment in Teaching Be vigilant about the teachings you accept, ensuring they align with the doctrine of Christ. Foster Community in Truth and Love Encourage and support fellow believers in their walk with Christ, promoting a community grounded in truth and love. People 1. The Elder The author of the letter, traditionally understood to be the Apostle John. The term "elder" (Greek: πρεσβύτερος, presbyteros) indicates a position of authority and respect within the early Christian community. 2. The Elect Lady The recipient of the letter. The term "elect" (Greek: ἐκλεκτή, eklektē) suggests she is chosen or favored by God. There is debate among scholars whether this refers to an individual woman or symbolically to a church congregation. 3. Her Children The children of the elect lady, who are also addressed in the letter. This could refer to her literal offspring or metaphorically to members of her church community. 4. Jesus Christ Mentioned as the Son of the Father, emphasizing His divine nature and central role in the Christian faith. The name "Jesus" (Greek: Ἰησοῦς, Iēsous) is the Greek form of the Hebrew name Yeshua, meaning "Yahweh is salvation." Places 1. The Elect Lady and Her Children This is the primary recipient of the letter. The "elect lady" is often interpreted as a metaphorical reference to a local church or congregation, and "her children" would be the members of that church. The Greek term "ἐκλεκτῇ κυρίᾳ" (eklektē kyria) suggests a chosen or select group, emphasizing the special status of the church community. 2. The Truth While not a physical place, "the truth" is a central theme and can be considered a spiritual "place" or state of being. The Greek word "ἀλήθεια" (alētheia) is used, which signifies truth in a broad sense, encompassing both doctrinal truth and the truth of living in accordance with God's commandments. 3. The Commandments Again, not a physical location, but the commandments represent a moral and spiritual framework or "place" where believers are expected to dwell. The Greek "ἐντολή" (entolē) refers to the teachings and instructions given by Christ and the apostles. Events 1. Greeting from the Elder The letter begins with a greeting from "the elder" to "the chosen lady and her children" (2 John 1:1). The term "elder" (Greek: πρεσβύτερος, presbyteros) indicates a position of authority and respect within the early Christian community. 2. Expression of Love in Truth The elder expresses love for the recipients "in truth" (2 John 1:1). This emphasizes the importance of truth (Greek: ἀλήθεια, alētheia) as a foundational element of Christian love and fellowship. 3. Acknowledgment of Walking in Truth The elder rejoices that some of the lady's children are "walking in the truth" (2 John 1:4). This phrase signifies living according to the teachings of Christ and adhering to the truth of the Gospel. 4. Commandment to Love One Another The elder reminds the recipients of the commandment "that we love one another" (2 John 1:5). This commandment is rooted in the teachings of Jesus and is central to Christian ethics. 5. Definition of Love as Obedience Love is defined as "walking according to His commandments" (2 John 1:6). This links love with obedience to God's commands, highlighting the inseparable nature of love and adherence to divine instruction. 6. Warning Against Deceivers The elder warns of "many deceivers" who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh (2 John 1:7). This addresses early heresies and emphasizes the importance of correct Christology. 7. Exhortation to Guard the Teaching The recipients are urged to "watch yourselves" to ensure they do not lose what they have worked for (2 John 1:8). This is a call to vigilance in maintaining the integrity of their faith and teachings. 8. Consequences of Not Abiding in Christ's Teaching Anyone who "does not abide in the teaching of Christ" does not have God (2 John 1:9). This underscores the necessity of remaining faithful to the apostolic doctrine. 9. Instruction on Hospitality The elder instructs not to receive or welcome anyone who brings a different teaching (2 John 1:10). This reflects the early church's concern for doctrinal purity and the dangers of false teachings. 10. Conclusion and Hope to Visit The letter concludes with the elder expressing a desire to visit and speak "face to face" (2 John 1:12). This personal touch highlights the relational aspect of early Christian communities. 11. Final Greetings The letter ends with greetings from "the children of your chosen sister" (2 John 1:13), indicating a connection between different Christian communities. Lessons from 2 John 1 1. Walk in Truth In a world filled with shifting values and fleeting truths, 2 John 1:4 reminds us of the joy found in walking in truth. "I was overjoyed to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father has commanded us." Embrace the truth of Scripture as your compass, guiding your decisions and actions. Let the Word of God be the foundation upon which you build your life, ensuring that your path aligns with His eternal wisdom. 2. Love One Another The call to love is timeless and central to our faith. 2 John 1:5 urges us, "And now I ask you, dear lady—not as a new commandment to you, but one we have had from the beginning—that we love one another." This love is not just a feeling but an action, a commitment to care for others as Christ cares for us. Let love be the hallmark of your interactions, reflecting the love of Jesus to everyone you meet. 3. Obey His Commandments Obedience is a natural outflow of love. 2 John 1:6 states, "And this is love: that we walk according to His commandments." Following God's commandments is not burdensome but a joyful expression of our relationship with Him. As you align your life with His will, you will find peace and purpose, knowing you are living in harmony with His divine plan. 4. Beware of Deceivers In a world where false teachings abound, vigilance is crucial. 2 John 1:7 warns, "Many deceivers have gone out into the world, refusing to confess the coming of Jesus Christ in the flesh. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist." Stay grounded in Scripture and be discerning, so you can recognize and reject teachings that stray from the truth of the Gospel. 5. Guard Your Reward Your spiritual journey is precious, and 2 John 1:8 encourages us to "Watch yourselves, so that you do not lose what we have worked for, but that you may be fully rewarded." Protect your faith and the progress you have made by staying committed to God's Word and His promises. Your reward is not just in this life but in the eternal life to come. 6. Abide in the Doctrine of Christ Staying true to the teachings of Christ is essential. 2 John 1:9 emphasizes, "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." Abide in His doctrine, and you will experience the fullness of a relationship with God, enriched by His presence and guidance. 7. Avoid False Teachers 2 John 1:10-11 advises, "If anyone comes to you but does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your home or even greet him. Whoever greets such a person shares in his evil deeds." Be cautious about whom you allow to influence your faith journey. Surround yourself with those who uphold the truth of the Gospel, and be wary of those who seek to lead you astray. 8. Joy in Fellowship The joy of fellowship is a recurring theme in Scripture. 2 John 1:12 expresses the desire for face-to-face interaction: "I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to come to you and speak face to face, so that our joy may be complete." Cherish the moments of fellowship with fellow believers, as they strengthen your faith and bring joy to your heart. 9. The Importance of Family in Faith 2 John 1:13 highlights the role of family in our spiritual lives: "The children of your elect sister send you greetings." Family is a vital support system in our walk with Christ. Encourage and nurture each other in faith, creating a legacy of belief that spans generations. 10. The Power of Written Encouragement Finally, 2 John 1 demonstrates the power of written words to encourage and instruct. While face-to-face interaction is invaluable, written communication can also uplift and guide. Consider writing letters or notes to those you care about, sharing Scripture and personal encouragement to strengthen their faith journey. Topics 1. Greeting and Truth (Verses 1-3) The letter begins with a greeting from "the elder" to "the chosen lady and her children," emphasizing love "in truth." The Greek word for truth, "ἀλήθεια" (aletheia), underscores the importance of sincerity and reality in Christian fellowship. The greeting also includes a blessing of "grace, mercy, and peace" from God the Father and Jesus Christ, highlighting the divine source of these gifts. 2. Walking in Truth and Love (Verses 4-6) The elder expresses joy in finding some of the lady's children "walking in truth," as commanded by the Father. The Greek term "περιπατέω" (peripateo), meaning to walk or conduct oneself, indicates a lifestyle consistent with Christian teachings. The passage stresses the commandment to "love one another," linking love with obedience to God's commandments. 3. Warning Against Deceivers (Verses 7-8) The letter warns of "many deceivers" who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. The Greek word "πλάνος" (planos) refers to those who lead others astray. The elder cautions believers to "watch yourselves" to avoid losing their full reward, emphasizing vigilance against false teachings. 4. Abiding in the Doctrine of Christ (Verses 9-11) The text underscores the importance of abiding in the "doctrine of Christ." The Greek term "μένω" (meno), meaning to remain or abide, suggests a continuous, steadfast commitment to the teachings of Christ. Those who do not abide are said to lack God, while those who do have both the Father and the Son. The passage advises against welcoming or supporting those who bring false teachings. 5. Conclusion and Final Greetings (Verses 12-13) The elder expresses a desire to visit and speak "face to face" rather than writing more with "paper and ink," indicating the value of personal fellowship. The letter concludes with greetings from "the children of your chosen sister," suggesting a close relationship between Christian communities. Themes 1. Truth and Love The letter emphasizes the importance of walking in truth and love. In 2 John 1:1-3, the elder expresses love "in truth" and highlights that grace, mercy, and peace come from God "in truth and love." The Greek word for truth, "ἀλήθεια" (aletheia), underscores the sincerity and reality of the Christian faith. 2. Obedience to God's Commandments In 2 John 1:4-6, the elder rejoices in finding some of the children walking in truth, as commanded by the Father. The text stresses obedience to God's commandments, particularly the command to love one another. The Greek term "ἐντολή" (entolē) refers to a command or order, emphasizing the divine authority behind these instructions. 3. Warning Against Deceivers The letter warns against deceivers who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh (2 John 1:7). This theme highlights the danger of false teachings and the need for discernment. The Greek word "πλάνος" (planos) means deceiver or imposter, indicating those who lead others astray from the truth. 4. Abiding in the Doctrine of Christ In 2 John 1:9, the importance of abiding in the doctrine of Christ is emphasized. Those who do not remain in this teaching do not have God. The Greek word "μένω" (menō) means to remain or abide, stressing the necessity of steadfastness in true Christian doctrine. 5. Separation from False Teachers The letter advises believers not to welcome or support anyone who brings false teachings (2 John 1:10-11). This theme underscores the need for separation from those who do not adhere to the truth of the Gospel. The Greek term "χαίρω" (chairō), meaning to rejoice or welcome, is used to caution against endorsing falsehood. Prayer Points Pray for Discernment Ask God for wisdom to discern truth from deception in teachings and relationships. Pray for a Heart of Obedience Seek God's help in cultivating a heart that delights in obeying His commandments. Pray for Strength in Community Request God's guidance in building a community that thrives on truth and love. Pray for Protection Against Deception Petition God to protect you and your community from false teachings and deceivers. As we delve into 2 John 1, may we be inspired to walk in truth and love, guarding the precious doctrine of Christ and living out our faith with integrity and devotion. Answering Tough Questions 1. Why do some scholars question whether the “elder” mentioned in 2 John 1:1 is the Apostle John or a different author? 2. What evidence challenges the identity of the “elect lady” in 2 John 1:1—whether she is a metaphor for the church or a specific individual? 3. How can the command in 2 John 1:10–11 to deny hospitality to false teachers be squared with broader New Testament teachings on love and hospitality? 4. Why does 2 John 1:7’s emphasis on Jesus “coming in the flesh” face skepticism in light of modern science and historical inquiry? 5. Are there historical or textual contradictions between 2 John and other New Testament letters that raise doubts about its authenticity or consistency? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does John define love in his letter? How does this correspond to our current understanding of love? 2. In the context of 2 John, what does it mean to walk in truth? 3. How does the balance of love and truth play out in your life? 4. What can we learn from the warning against antichrists and deceivers? How can this apply to our present-day living? 5. How does John's insistence on not welcoming those who don't abide in Christ's teachings challenge our modern ideas of tolerance? 6. How can we discern the truth from deceit in our contemporary world filled with diverse ideas and beliefs? 7. Why does John emphasize face-to-face communication over written communication? How does this compare to today's digital age communication? 8. How might the application of this epistle look different in a modern, multicultural society? 9. How can we ensure that we are 'walking in love' in our daily lives? 10. How does John's warning against deceivers inform our approach to false teachings in our present context? 11. How can we maintain our faith and rewards in a world filled with diverse and potentially misleading information? 12. How should we respond when we encounter people or teachings that contradict the teachings of Christ? 13. What does it mean to 'lose what we have worked for'? How can we avoid this? 14. How can we demonstrate love as defined in 2 John in our families, communities, and wider society? 15. How does John's emphasis on maintaining the original teachings of Christ relate to the concept of progressive revelation? 16. What lessons can we draw from John's preference for personal communication in our age of impersonal digital communication? 17. How do you interpret the term 'chosen lady and her children'? Could it have broader implications for the church? 18. Why is the commandment to 'love one another' repeatedly emphasized in this letter? 19. How does the concept of truth in 2 John resonate with the broader biblical narrative? 20. What actions can we take to better embody the teachings of 2 John in our everyday lives? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions