2 John
by Philip Layton
John warns against the teaching of a false doctrine and urges Christian love
Discussion Questions
- Who do you think the ‘lady’ is to whom John is writing (vv 1, 5) – a person, a church?
- Who do you think the ‘sister’ is (v 13)?
- Why would John be worried about some people teaching that Jesus never actually came ‘in the flesh’ (v 7)?
Share your thoughts below, or tweet about it with the #boundlessbible hashtag. Don't forget this week's Children's Challenge!
Going Deeper From 'Words of Life'
John’s second letter – or, we could say his first ‘postcard’ – is to ‘the chosen lady and her children’. In these 13 verses the apostle tells her, and us, to always walk in truth, all because of love. Satan would love to pull us down!
If he can trip us up in any way, make us sin, even cause us to lose faith, he has won. John points out that Satan can deceptively use people, or situations, to make us stumble or fall. The deception can seemingly come out of nowhere.
We are suddenly faced with a choice: to sin or not to sin. The first option may seem so enticing and exciting. But we are to hold on to truth – and only God’s truth.
John’s third letter – his second ‘postcard’ – is written to a good friend:
The elder, To my dear friend Gaius, whom I love in the truth (3:1).
The apostle’s words speak about working with others in community, and extending hospitality to others:
We ought therefore to show hospitality to such men so that we may work together for the truth (v 8).
Some of us seem to be naturally bent towards hospitality – having an ‘open door’ policy where everyone is welcome, at any time. Others are more private. In whatever category we find ourselves, as we work together we must be welcoming people. Children of God, striving to make all people feel at home and welcomed. For we are all part of the wonderful and loving family of God.
Prayer
Lord, help me to daily walk in the truth. To be a person who welcomes others into the beautiful fellowship of believers – all because of my great love for you.
Beverly Ivany
Tags: 2 John