2 John (2 Jn)
Book 24 of the NT, having one chapter. This letter by the Apostle John, written about AD 90, was addressed to “the chosen lady” but it is unclear who this actually was. Time to read: 5 mins.
Key people: John, the chosen lady and her children.
Outline. John touches on key areas that we also should pay constant attention to: knowing the message of the Bible and living this out in real life, following Christ, outworking practical love and being on guard against false teaching.
Main lesson. Walk in the truth, obey God and love others – each is vital for a balanced Christian and reveals the reality of being a child of God.
Key verses and thoughts: * “I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another. And this is love: that we walk in obedience to His commands...walk in love” (2 Jn 1:5,6). The apostle John who called himself “the disciple Jesus loved” elaborated on the theme of love in all his writing (Jn 13:23, 15:12). He knew the power of love and this was a real motivator in his life. Love should be a hallmark of our lives too. Not just an ‘I love you’ glibly spoken, a sentiment with no substance, but rather genuine love outworked in action and good deeds, not just occasionally or when we feel like it but as a consistent way of life – a decision to show love regardless of the recipient or the personal cost involved. Love is our first priority, our greatest privilege and highest responsibility.
* “Watch out that you do not lose what you have worked for, but that you may be fully rewarded” (2 Jn 1:8). Don’t allow yourself to be cheated out of eternal blessing. Keep a close watch so you are not deceived by error and led away from the path laid out for you. Regularly reading and studying the Bible will protect us from falling into error or false teaching.