The Elder, To The Elect Lady and Her Children: 2 John 1-2

2 John 1-2

1 The elder, to the elect lady and her children, whom I love in truth—and not I alone, but also all those who know the truth—

            Who is the elder? The elder is the apostle John. What is an elder? An elder is older, elder, presbyter. In general, an elder is a leader whose authority stems from Almighty God and has been recognized by the church, this refers to a specific type of leader responsible for directing churches. An elder was also an overseer. He was the shepherd of those entrusted to his care. He was called to feed the sheep, guide the sheep, and protect the sheep. John writes this letter to encourage those who read it, to nourish them spiritually. It aims to guard them from lies and deception, helping them grow into who God has called them to be.

            The elect lady and her children were likely the immediate audience to whom John was writing. However, this could also signify something deeper. The elect lady may also represent the bride of Christ and all those who follow Jesus Christ. John states that he loves those who are in the truth. The truth is Jesus Christ. Anyone who has come to follow Jesus as Lord and Savior is adopted into God’s family. We are sealed by the Holy Spirit, and our lives are rooted in the truth of Jesus Christ. What sets apart every believer who follows Jesus Christ is that they focus solely on Jesus and believe Him to be God. It is impossible to come to faith in Jesus Christ as Almighty God without the work and power of the Holy Spirit.

            Everyone who knows the truth follows Jesus Christ. As believers and followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to love one another. If we fail to walk in love, it is due to a disconnect. Most likely, we have not abided in Christ and relied on His grace and power. The only way we can be filled, guided, led, and empowered by the Holy Spirit is by abiding in Christ. He is our source, and He is the reason we can be the people God has called us to be.

2 because of the truth that resides in us and will be with us ⌊forever⌋.

            The word "truth" here encompasses sincerity, integrity, and the state of being real or genuine. It often refers to visible and verifiable reality, as demonstrated by facts, actual events, or proven information character.[1] Does the truth reside within you? The term reside here means to remain, stay (i.e., lodge) with. Among its wide range of uses, menō can refer to dwelling, living, or lodging.[2] To abide in Christ is to remain in the truth. It is impossible for the truth to be in us if we fail to abide in Christ.

            When we come to Christ, the Spirit of God comes to live within us, and the law of God is written on our hearts. Our nature changes, and we are born again as a new creation. However, for this nature to fully develop within us, we must abide in Christ daily. Spiritual disciplines must manifest in our lives. Reading God’s word and prayer are essential every day. The more time we spend with Christ, the more we become like Him.

            Those whom the Father loves, He prunes. As we spend time in the truth, the Father will reveal aspects of our lives that need to be removed, which could hinder His purpose and plan. This is a lifelong process, but it is essential that the truth resides within us. We must build our lives on the word of God, as it will protect us from the deceptions of this age. Many during this time will be deceived because they don’t know the word of God. However, for the person who builds their life upon the word, they will be nourished, protected, and will grow to manifest the character and nature of Jesus Christ.

Prayer

Father, thank You for Your word. Thank You for protecting my heart and mind. Help me each day to build my life upon Your word and Your truth. Remove from my life anything that would hinder Your work. Help me to see and understand that which You want me to see. Help me to follow You according to Your will and purpose. Father, may Your kingdom come and Your will be done in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen!

[1] Douglas Mangum, “Truth,” in Lexham Theological Wordbook, ed. Douglas Mangum et al., Lexham Bible Reference Series (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2014).

[2] Garwood P. Anderson, “Hospitality,” in Lexham Theological Wordbook, ed. Douglas Mangum et al., Lexham Bible Reference Series (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2014).