Commentary on the Book of 2 John

2 John is the shortest book in the New Testament and the entire Bible (by verse count), consisting of only 13 verses. But, by actual number of words in the Greek text, the honor of the shortest goes to 3 John. It's a personal letter written by John the Elder to "the elect lady and her children," which could refer to a specific woman and her family or, metaphorically, to a local church and its members.

Verses 1-3: Greeting and Affirmation of Truth and Love

John begins his letter with a warm greeting, emphasizing the themes of truth and love that will permeate the entire epistle.

1 The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth; 2 For the truth's sake, which dwelleth in us, and shall be with us for ever. 3 Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love. (2 John 1-3, KJV)

The author's emphasis on "truth" likely refers to the truth of the Gospel and sound doctrine. His mention of love sets the tone for the letter's content and reflects the interconnectedness of truth and love in Christian faith.

Verses 4-6: The Commandment to Love

John expresses joy at finding some of the recipient's children walking in truth, and he reminds them of the commandment to love one another.

4 I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father. 5 And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another. 6 And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it. (2 John 4-6, KJV)

This emphasis on love echoes Jesus' teachings and John's other writings. The author presents love not as a new concept, but as a foundational aspect of Christian faith from the beginning.

Verses 7-11: Warning Against Deceivers

The letter takes a more serious tone as John warns about deceivers who deny that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh.

7 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. 8 Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. 9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: 11 For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. (2 John 7-11, KJV)

This warning likely addresses early forms of Gnostic teachings that denied the full humanity of Christ. John advises his readers not to welcome or support those who bring false doctrines.

Verses 12-13: Conclusion

John concludes by expressing his hope to visit in person and conveys greetings from "the children of thy elect sister."

12 Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full. 13 The children of thy elect sister greet thee. Amen. (2 John 12-13, KJV)

This personal touch emphasizes the relational nature of early Christian communities and the preference for face-to-face communication.

Key Themes and Significance

The letter provides insight into the challenges faced by early Christians, particularly the threat of false teachings. It also demonstrates the pastoral concern of early church leaders for maintaining doctrinal purity and brotherly love within their communities.

Conclusion

2 John, despite being the shortest book in the Bible by verse count (13), carries significant theological and practical weight. It encapsulates core Christian teachings about truth, love, and discernment in a concise, personal format. The letter serves as a reminder that even brief communications can convey profound spiritual truths and guidance.