2nd John 1 TO AN ESTEEMED LADY This brief note to an esteemed woman in a local assembly is a wakeup call to all believers to be grounded in the truth. We need to be alert to the fact there are those in our day the same as when this letter was written who teach and practice false doctrine. Care needs to be taken as to who we listen to as well as who we will even allow into our homes. Many will come "in God's name" but we don't know them by reputation and they have no introduction from believers in other places as is given in a letter of commendation. To say "I love in truth" is not a casual statement. It indicates our love is based on a mutual love for our Lord Jesus Christ that is not sentimental but real in that it is demonstrated. Loving lost souls and "loving enemies" is a different love than the love in Christ believers share with those who love His name and His word. Many will say today that we can love each other in Christ even if we do not believe the same things about Christ and about the Bible. They indicate that biblical interpretation doesn't matter as long as we agree to differ. We can never surrender the truth of God even though it is important that we love one another. Love is nor really possible without truth. Professions of love in a marriage or family, without honesty, is not really love.
When communicating with a member of the opposite sex there needs to be a conscious commitment to give respect, honor and dignity with genuine interest but no untoward actions. The welfare of a woman and her children is a responsibility of elders in any situation, and for those in an assembly fellowship in particular. John was probably well up in years and was loved and respected by the Lord's people when he addressed this short letter to a woman who was likely a widow with children. The letter was to encourage her and warn her at the same time. The designation of "lady" or "Martha," meant she was well known and likely given to hospitality. The fact of her children being included in this short letter seem to indicate they were influenced in a good way by her. Children are often an obvious reflection of the parents and their attitude toward the word of God and the people of God.
The attitude and actions of an elder in an assembly has great weight so his words and actions must be carefully thought through before he speaks or writes spiritual counsel. In an assembly of believers, the plurality of elders who have a genuine care for the Lord's people makes it possible for one or more to pass on suitable words of counsel. Some saints are more inclined to connect with one brother than another depending on their personality and background. There is a wide variety of need in the flock of God. John was a man of compassion whose genuine love and interest was clear to this lady. When that is true, we are able to encourage, comfort, exhort and correct people and it will be accepted even if it causes some hurt. A gracious man with a Christ-like spirit and attitude, who lives a godly life is one to whom people give heed.
In this short letter, eight of the thirteen verses are found in 1st John in similar expressions or in the sense of its teaching in the text. Truth taught to the Lord's people in general, can be and should be taught to individuals like this elect lady, as one of maturity passes on truth to those new in the faith. Unchangeable truth can be reaffirmed when there is an ear to hear, and those who love the truth will love those who pass it on and vice versa, Love, obedience and truth all go together. To not have each of these is really to have none of them.
"Love in truth" is a title of honor that reflects the divine nature implanted in believers. In this first verse and in verse four the "truth" is referring to the whole of Christian teaching we have received and are expected to practice. in verse two "the truth" is a Person in us and with us. The source of love is truth and so is the nature of love. This "elect lady" who John "loved in the truth," was one who he truly valued in the sincerity of one believer for another. "We know we have passed from death unto life because we love the brethren." This not just a statement of fact but is that which we experience in our lives together as the people of God.
A spiritual relationship with fellow believers is based on the grace of God which we each have that enables us to appreciate each one who has been designated a child of God by His sovereign electing grace. There are those who take advantage of the graciousness of God's people but have a hidden agenda. Some young people may express love to another person but the motivation may be lascivious or immoral. Others do the same with the objective of gaining a following or avoiding some consequence by getting people to sympathize with them. John's mode of address to this "elect lady" was honorable, honest and open, with the truth as the link and cause of their fellowship. There was no indiscretion in John's "love in the truth." Indiscretion on the part of one believer toward another is to be avoided always and in every situation. "Abstain from all appearance of evil" is a principle that should guide our interaction with other people.
Love for God and love for God's people Is normal when the children of God know they are equal. Each one loves the truth, and in truth they do love God's grace gave the life that each one does have. And the nature of truth and love goes together Both coming to us by the grace of our Savior. So, it is the best we want to pass on to our sister. Truth from God is the best gift we can give her. Reciprocated by one who is spiritually warm-hearted Is a loving interest which God's grace imparted. Now we share in common the desire to bless, And with truth and obedience our love we express.
"Father of all grace, I thank Thee for those esteemed sisters in Christ who have faithfully serve Thee and Thy people through the years. They are often unnoticed and not given too much recognition for all they have done for the furtherance of the kingdom of God. Give them a sense of contentment and joy in their daily routines of life. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen."