2 John 1:1

2 John 1:1 (KJV): "¶ 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;"

This opening verse of Second John serves as the traditional salutation, immediately setting the tone for the letter's themes of truth, love, and discernment. It introduces the author and the recipients, emphasizing the foundation of their relationship in shared adherence to biblical truth.

Context

The Second Epistle of John is one of the shortest books in the New Testament, attributed to the Apostle John, who identifies himself simply as "the elder." This title, presbyteros (πρεσβύτερος) in Greek, signifies his apostolic authority, maturity, and respected position within the early Christian community. The letter is addressed to "the elect lady and her children." There are two primary interpretations for this recipient: either a literal Christian woman and her family, or a symbolic representation of a local church and its members. Given the warnings against false teachers in the rest of the letter, the symbolic interpretation of a church community is widely favored, as it would explain the collective instruction and concern. The phrase "whom I love in the truth" immediately highlights the central theme of the letter: Christian love (agapē) that is rooted in and defined by adherence to God's revealed truth, particularly concerning the person of Christ.

Key Themes

• Apostolic Authority and Affection: John, as "the elder," writes with the weight of an apostle, but also with genuine love and concern for the recipients, indicating a pastoral relationship.
• Love in Truth: The core message is that true Christian love is inseparable from adherence to sound doctrine. It's not merely an emotion but a commitment to living according to God's revealed word. This concept of love in the truth is a hallmark of John's writings.
• Shared Conviction: The phrase "not I only, but also all they that have known the truth" underscores the communal aspect of Christian faith. It's a shared understanding and commitment to God's truth that binds believers together, creating a unified front against error. This shared knowledge of God's truth brings unity and purpose, echoing Jesus' words that those who know the truth will be set free.

Linguistic Insights

• "The elder" (ho presbyteros): This term literally means "the older one" or "the elder." In the context of early Christianity, it denoted a respected leader or overseer in the church, often implying apostolic authority or a close association with the apostles.
• "Elect lady" (eklektē kyria): Eklektē means "chosen" or "elect," a common New Testament term for believers. Kyria means "lady" or "mistress." The ambiguity allows for both literal and symbolic interpretations, though the latter (a church) is often preferred due to the broader context of the letter's warnings against false teachers.
• "In the truth" (en alētheia): This is a crucial Johannine phrase. It doesn't just mean "sincerely" but refers to living and acting according to divine truth, particularly the truth revealed in Jesus Christ and His teachings. It contrasts sharply with the deceit and error promoted by false teachers.

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 John 1:1 emphasizes the importance of grounding our relationships and love in biblical truth. Our affection for fellow Christians should be more than superficial; it should be rooted in a shared commitment to the gospel and sound doctrine. This verse encourages us to value those who uphold and live by God's truth, fostering a community that is united not merely by sentiment but by a common confession of faith. It also subtly prepares us for the letter's subsequent call to discernment and protection against those who deviate from the truth, reminding us that true love for God and His people involves defending the integrity of His word.