TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 John 1:10–11.
Here, I. Upon due warning given concerning seducers, the apostle gives direction concerning the treatment of such. They are not to be entertained as the ministers of Christ. The Lord Christ will distinguish them from such, and so would he have his disciples. The direction is negative. 1. "Support them not: If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine (concerning Christ as the Son of God, the Messiah and anointed of God for our redemption and salvation), receive him not into your house." Possibly this lady was like Gaius, of whom we read in the next epistle, a generous housekeeper, and hospitable entertainer of travelling ministers and Christians. These deceivers might possibly expect the same reception with others, or with the best who came there (as the blind are often bold enough), but the apostle allows it not: "Do not welcome them into your family." Doubtless such may be relieved in their pressing necessities, but not encouraged for ill service. Deniers of the faith are destroyers of souls; and it is supposed that even ladies themselves should have good understanding in the affairs of religion. 2. "Bless not their enterprises: Neither bid him God speed. Attend not their service with your prayers and good wishes." Bad work should not be consecrated or recommended to the divine benediction. God will be no patron of falsehood, seduction, and sin. We ought to bid God speed to evangelical ministration; but the propagation of fatal error, if we cannot prevent, we must not dare to countenance. Then,
II.Here is the reason of such direction, forbidding the support and patronage of the deceiver:
For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. Favour and affection partake of the sin. We may be sharers in the iniquities of others. How judicious and how cautious should the Christian be! There are many ways of sharing the guilt of other people's transgressions; it may be done by culpable silence, indolence, unconcernedness, private contribution, public countenance and assistance, inward approbation, open apology and defence. The Lord pardon our guilt of other persons' sins!
Historical interpretation
Sixteen Centuries of Reception
9 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
And John, the disciple of the Lord, has intensified their condemnation, when he desires us not even to address to them the salutation of "good-speed; "for, says he, "He that bids them be of good-speed is a partaker with their evil deeds; "
He says, "If any come unto you and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed; for he that bids him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds." He forbids us to salute such, and to receive them to our hospitality. For this is not harsh in the case of a man of this sort. But he admonishes them neither to confer nor dispute with such as are not able to handle divine things with intelligence, lest through them they be seduced from the doctrine of truth, influenced by plausible reasons. Now, I think that we are not even to pray with such, because in the prayer which is made at home, after rising from prayer, the salutation of joy is also the token of peace.
Although we ought to be seeking at all times, where ought we to seek? Among the heretics, where all is foreign and opposed to our truth, with whom we are forbidden to associate?
Said: John the apostle laid it down in his epistle, saying: "If any one come unto you, and have not the doctrine of Christ, receive him not into your house, and say not to him, Hail. For he that saith to him, Hail, partakes with his evil deeds."
Since it is written that we should avoid such people, how can we not assume that someone who associates with Arians is also an exponent of their heresy?
Here you see an example of excommunication in the New Testament, both from table fellowship at home and from table fellowship in church.
If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, etc. John speaks thus about schismatics or heretics to be detested, what he taught in words, he also practiced in deeds. For his most holy listener and strongest martyr Polycarp, the bishop of the Smyrnaeans, recounts that at a certain time, while he had entered the baths at Ephesus for the sake of washing, and had seen Cerinthus there, he immediately jumped out and left without washing, saying: “Let us flee from here, lest even the baths collapse in which Cerinthus, the enemy of truth, is bathing.” The same Polycarp also, when he once met Marcion, who said to him: “Recognize us,” he replied: “I recognize, I recognize the firstborn of Satan.” Such caution did the apostles and their disciples use in religion at that time, that they would not permit even a word’s communion with any of those who had deviated from the truth; as Paul also says: A man that is heretical, after a first and second admonition, avoid, knowing that such a one is perverted and sins, being self-condemned (Tit. III).
If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house, nor greet him. For he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.
"If anyone comes to you" (2 Jn. 10) confirms those to whom he writes. If anyone, he says, comes to you without this confession, not only will he not receive protection from you, but he will also not receive the prayer for salvation from you, rightly and cautiously saying this, as if this prayer for salvation is owed only to those who agree with us in morals and faith. For whom do we pray for salvation, except for those who are of similar morals and faith? Therefore, if such a prayer for salvation is offered by us to the wicked, it is certainly presented as if it were offered to the faithful and those of similar morals, and thus they have been accepted as companions by us, and they have dragged us down to their abyss.
Nor say to him, God speed you: This admonition is in general, to forewarn the faithful of the dangers which may arise from a familiarity with those who have prevaricated and gone from the true faith, and with such as teach false doctrine. But this is not forbidding a charity for all men, by which we ought to wish and pray for the eternal salvation of every one, even of our enemies.
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Summary
Second John 1:10 delivers a stark warning to believers regarding the reception of individuals who propagate false doctrine. It instructs the recipient, likely a Christian woman or a local church, to deny hospitality and any form of endorsement to those who do not adhere to the foundational truth of Christ's incarnation. This command underscores the critical importance of doctrinal purity and spiritual discernment in safeguarding the integrity of the Christian faith and community against deceptive influences.
Context
Literary Context
Second John is a brief but potent epistle, likely addressed to an "elect lady" and her children, which could refer to a prominent Christian woman and her household, or symbolically, to a specific local church and its members. The letter's primary concern, articulated throughout, is the threat posed by "deceivers" and "antichrists" who deny the full humanity and deity of Jesus Christ, specifically that He "has come in the flesh" (2 John 1:7). John emphasizes the need to "abide in the doctrine of Christ" (2 John 1:9) and warns against those who "do not abide in the doctrine of Christ" but "go beyond" it. Verse 10 directly follows these warnings, providing a concrete instruction on how to respond to such individuals, making it a practical application of the preceding theological principles concerning truth and error.
Historical & Cultural Context
In the first century, hospitality was not merely a social nicety but a deeply ingrained cultural and practical necessity, particularly for travelers. Christians, including itinerant teachers and missionaries, relied heavily on the open homes of fellow believers for lodging, food, and support. This practice, while vital for the spread of the Gospel and the strengthening of community bonds, also presented a significant vulnerability. False teachers, often indistinguishable from genuine ones in their initial approach, could exploit this system to gain access, influence, and resources within Christian households and nascent church communities. The specific "doctrine" being denied likely refers to Docetism or early forms of Gnosticism, which posited that Jesus only seemed to have a physical body, thereby undermining the reality of His incarnation, suffering, and atonement. John's instruction reflects a need to protect the vulnerable Christian community from spiritual contagion and theological compromise.
Key Themes
The verse profoundly contributes to several key themes prevalent in John's epistles. Foremost is Doctrinal Purity, emphasizing that the truth about Jesus Christ's person and work is non-negotiable and must be guarded zealously. This aligns with John's broader concern for "truth" (ἀλήθεια) as a defining characteristic of genuine faith and fellowship (2 John 1:1-4). Another crucial theme is Discernment and Protection, as believers are called to be vigilant and wise in evaluating those who claim to teach in Christ's name. The command to deny hospitality is a protective measure, preventing false teachers from gaining a platform or legitimacy within the Christian household or church, thereby safeguarding the spiritual well-being of the community. This also highlights the theme of Separation from Error, indicating that while love is paramount, it does not extend to endorsing or enabling teachings that undermine the core of the Gospel.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From the verb διδάσκω (didaskō), meaning "to teach," this noun refers to instruction, teaching, or the content of what is taught. In this context, "this doctrine" specifically refers to the foundational truth about Jesus Christ, particularly His incarnation and the reality of His coming in the flesh, as emphasized in 2 John 1:7. It signifies the authentic, apostolic teaching concerning Christ, which is the standard against which all other teachings must be measured.
This verb means "to take," "to get hold of," or "to receive." Here, it implies an active choice to admit someone into one's home or fellowship. The negative command "receive him not" indicates a deliberate refusal of hospitality and, by extension, a rejection of their message and mission. It's not merely a passive withholding but an active denial of entry and support that would otherwise be extended to a fellow believer.
A primary verb meaning "to be cheerful," "to be happy," or "to be well off." It was a common Greek greeting or farewell, akin to "rejoice!" or "farewell!" By forbidding the customary greeting "God speed" (literally, "rejoice" or "be well"), John prohibits any expression of goodwill, blessing, or endorsement that might imply solidarity with the false teacher's mission. It signifies a complete disassociation from their enterprise, denying them even the politeness of a customary salutation that could be misconstrued as support.
Verse Breakdown
"If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine,"
This conditional clause sets the premise for the subsequent commands. It identifies the specific type of individual to be avoided: anyone who arrives purporting to be a teacher or messenger but whose message deviates from "this doctrine"—the core truth of Christ's incarnation and the apostolic teaching. The emphasis is on the content of their teaching, not merely their presence or personality.
"receive him not into [your] house,"
This is the first, direct imperative. It forbids extending hospitality, which in the first century would have included lodging, food, and general support. To "receive into your house" was to offer fellowship and endorsement. Denying this was a significant act of rejection, preventing false teachers from gaining a platform, resources, or legitimacy within the Christian community centered in the home.
"neither bid him God speed:"
This is the second, equally strong imperative. It prohibits even a polite greeting or blessing. The phrase "God speed" (Greek chaírō) was a common salutation. By forbidding even this, John underscores the severity of the false doctrine and the need for complete disassociation. Offering such a greeting could be interpreted as wishing the false teacher success in their mission, thereby implicating the believer in their error.
Literary Devices
Second John 1:10 employs several potent Literary Devices to convey its urgent message. The most prominent is the Imperative Mood, used in "receive him not" and "neither bid him God speed." These are direct, non-negotiable commands, underscoring the seriousness and necessity of the prescribed action. The "house" functions as a Metonymy or Symbolism, representing not only the physical dwelling but also the spiritual community, the family of faith, and the sphere of Christian influence. To admit a false teacher into the house is to admit their doctrine into the community. Furthermore, the phrase "bid him God speed" functions as a Synecdoche, where a part (a common greeting) stands for the whole (any form of endorsement, encouragement, or complicity with their mission). By forbidding even this seemingly minor act, John emphasizes the complete and unequivocal rejection required.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This verse is a powerful testament to the New Testament's unwavering commitment to doctrinal purity and the safeguarding of the Gospel. It stands in continuity with broader biblical warnings against false prophets and teachers, emphasizing that truth is not relative and that genuine love for God and His people necessitates a firm stand against error. The commands here highlight the responsibility of individual believers and the church collectively to exercise discernment, protecting the flock from wolves in sheep's clothing. This protective stance is not born of hatred but of a profound love for Christ and His truth, recognizing that false doctrine can lead to spiritual ruin and undermine the very foundation of salvation.
Reflection and Application
While the immediate context of first-century itinerant teachers and hospitality might seem distant, the principles of 2 John 1:10 remain profoundly relevant for believers today. In an age saturated with information and diverse spiritual claims, the call to discernment is more critical than ever. We are challenged to be vigilant guardians of biblical truth, not only within our personal lives but also within our families and church communities. This means actively studying God's Word to know "this doctrine" intimately, so we can recognize deviations from it. It also means exercising wisdom in our associations, particularly concerning those who claim to teach Christian truth. While we are called to love all people and share the Gospel with them, this love does not extend to endorsing or providing a platform for teachings that undermine the person and work of Jesus Christ. Protecting the spiritual health of our "house"—be it our physical home, our local church, or the broader Christian community—requires a courageous commitment to truth, even when it means making difficult choices about fellowship and support.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Does this verse prohibit all hospitality to non-believers or those with differing views?
No, this verse does not prohibit all hospitality to non-believers or those with differing views. The specific context of 2 John 1:10 targets individuals who "come unto you, and bring not this doctrine." This refers to those who claim to be Christian teachers or messengers but actively propagate false doctrine, specifically denying the incarnation of Christ (2 John 1:7). The prohibition is not against general evangelistic hospitality or kindness to those who are lost or seeking truth, but against providing a platform or endorsement to those who are actively undermining the foundational truths of the Gospel within the Christian community. Believers are still called to love their neighbors and engage with the world, but with discernment regarding those who intentionally spread spiritual poison.
What is "this doctrine" that is so crucial to the message of 2 John?
"This doctrine" (Greek: didachḗ) refers to the core, foundational teaching about Jesus Christ, particularly His full humanity and deity as expressed in His incarnation. John explicitly states earlier in the letter that "many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh" (2 John 1:7). Therefore, "this doctrine" is the apostolic teaching that Jesus Christ is truly God manifest in human flesh, the Son who came to die for sins and rise again. It is the essential truth of the Gospel, upon which all Christian faith and salvation depend. To deny this doctrine, or to "go beyond" it (2 John 1:9), is to depart from Christ Himself.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Second John 1:10, with its stern warning against false doctrine, finds its ultimate fulfillment and grounding in the person and work of Jesus Christ Himself. Christ is the embodiment of "this doctrine" – He is the Truth incarnate (John 14:6). His coming "in the flesh" (John 1:14) is the central, non-negotiable truth that false teachers denied, and it is the very reality that makes salvation possible. Christ Himself warned His disciples to "beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves" (Matthew 7:15), demonstrating His own vigilance in protecting His flock from spiritual deception. His entire ministry was characterized by the clear proclamation of truth that exposed and contrasted with the errors of His day. The call to deny hospitality and endorsement to those who do not bring "this doctrine" is, therefore, a call to uphold the honor and truth of Christ. By guarding the purity of the Gospel, believers protect the very message of redemption that Christ accomplished, ensuring that His sheep are nourished by the true Bread of Life and not poisoned by deceptive teachings that would lead them astray from the Good Shepherd (John 10:11).