2 John 12–13
12 12Though I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink. Instead I hope to come to you and talk face to face, so that our joy may be complete.
13 13The children of your elect sister greet you.
Section Overview
In a simple conclusion to the letter, John again expresses his affection for this congregation and his hope to follow this letter with a personal visit.
Section Outline
- III. Closing (vv. 12–13)
Response
The goal of a pastor’s labor with his people and of interaction between church members is shared joy in Christ (v. 4). Knowing that obedience to the Word of God is the path to joy, Christians must encourage one another in this obedience, so that they might know the joy of Christ. Like John, we must make use of whatever means available to interact with and help other believers, knowing all the while that nothing compares with real physical presence. The completion of our joy, that is, our perseverance in the faith, will be best served by regular face-to-face interactions with a faithful church community.