2 John is the second of three short epistles or letters written by John the apostle. In each of these three short epistles as with Johns Gospel, he clearly highlights the words that underpin the character and energy of God which he quoted in 1 John 4: 8 “God is Love”. With having God’s love living in our hearts, we have the anchor and root to living a Godly fruitful life.
John is addressing this book to a Christian lady which comprises of just one chapter. He opens by telling her the pleaser it gives him to see how some of her children are growing up in their faith. He wants to encourage her to continue in her Godly walk in Gods love and the Truth, living in her heart, as well as warning her to guard against those who are not walking in God’s truth and out to deceive (v 7 to10). He highlights the importance of fellowship and spending time together (v12)
The chapter in 2 John reads - 1 The elder, To the lady chosen by God and to her children, whom I love in the truth—and not I only, but also all who know the truth—2 because of the truth, which lives in us and will be with us forever:
3 Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.
4 It has given me great joy to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father commanded us. 5 And now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another. 6 And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.
7 I say this because many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist.8 Watch out that you do not lose what we have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully. 9 Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them.11 Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work.
12 I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.
13 The children of your sister, who is chosen by God, send their greetings.
