2 John 1–3

1 John refers to himself simply as “the elder.” As noted in the Introduction to 1–3 John, some argue that this suggests the author is someone other than the apostle John. However, elsewhere in the NT, Peter also refers to himself as an “elder” (1 Pet. 5:1), and thus such usage by an apostle is not unknown. “Elder” is the most common NT term for the pastoral office, and thus John is identifying himself particularly by this pastoral role.

The “elect lady” to whom John writes could be either a literal woman or a church referred to figuratively. Most commentators believe that John refers here to a church and its members (“her children”), using imagery common to the Bible. Through both Testaments the people of God are often referred to as a woman or bride (Isa. 54:6; 62:5; Jer. 2:2; 3:1; Ezekiel 23; Hosea 2; Eph. 5:22–31; Rev. 22:17). In 1 John, John regularly referred to believers as “children,” as he does now in 2 John. Thus John uses common biblical imagery to address a local church.

2 The emphasis in this greeting is on love and truth. John loves this church “in truth,” and all who “know the truth” love this church as well (v. 1). Furthermore, the reason for this love is “the truth that abides” in believers (v. 2). Even the “grace, mercy, and peace” that come to believers from God are “in truth and love” (v. 3). This repetition can seem dizzying to modern readers, but the emphasis on and interconnectedness of love and truth is clear. John’s statement that he loves this church “in truth” could simply mean “truly” or “sincerely.” However, considering the other uses of “truth” here, it seems likely that more is intended. John’s love is “in the truth,” that is, rooted in the gospel truth they hold in common. This is why all who know the truth also love this church.

Shared commitment to the gospel produces love. This is what verse 2 makes clear, stating that the basis of such love is “the truth.” Thus, truth (the gospel) is the basis for Christian unity and love. We cannot increase our love for one another by downplaying truth. Rather, holding to core gospel truths and our shared allegiance to them is what will increase our love for fellow believers. Since this truth abides and will be with us forever, our love also will abide and persevere. Christian love is based not on our performance or ability but on the truth of the gospel.

3 Hellenistic letters typically included a health wish in their greetings. John does something similar here, pronouncing a gospel blessing that “will be with us.” While “grace, mercy, and peace” is a fairly conventional triad in Christian writing, the terms are not as common in John. He is pronouncing God’s covenant blessings on his people, reminding them of God’s willingness to pardon their sin and of their favorable relationship with God.¹