2 John, 3 John, & Jude
There is a short introduction available for the book of 2 John. You can read it here.
Key Themes (2 John)
The book of 2 John is a brief letter traditionally attributed to the Apostle John. Addressed to "the elect lady and her children," which likely refers to a local church and its members, the letter emphasizes the importance of adhering to the truth of the Gospel and practicing love within the Christian community. John also warns against false teachers who do not acknowledge the true identity of Jesus Christ. The key themes include:
- The Importance of Truth: A central theme in 2 John is the importance of walking in the truth. John emphasizes that the truth of the Gospel, centered on the identity and teachings of Jesus Christ, is foundational for the Christian faith. He encourages believers to continue living according to the truth they have received and to remain faithful to the teachings of Christ. This theme underscores the vital role of truth in maintaining a strong and authentic Christian community.
- Love and Obedience: John reiterates the command to love one another, which he describes as not a new commandment, but one that believers have had from the beginning. He connects love with obedience to God’s commandments, highlighting that true Christian love is demonstrated through living in accordance with God’s will. This theme emphasizes that love is inseparable from obedience to the teachings of Christ and is the mark of genuine discipleship.
- Warning Against False Teachers: John warns the recipients of the letter to be vigilant against false teachers who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. He cautions believers not to welcome or support anyone who brings a different teaching, as doing so would be to participate in their evil work. This theme highlights the need for discernment in identifying and rejecting false teachings that distort the truth of the Gospel.
- The Danger of Losing Reward: John reminds believers of the need to hold fast to the teachings of Christ so that they may receive a full reward. He warns that straying from the truth can result in the loss of the reward promised to those who remain faithful. This theme emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the faith and the consequences of deviating from the core teachings of Christianity.
- Christian Hospitality with Caution: While hospitality is an important Christian virtue, John advises caution in extending hospitality to those who promote false teachings. He instructs believers not to welcome or provide support to those who do not bring the true doctrine of Christ, as doing so would imply endorsement of their errors. This theme highlights the balance between the practice of love and the need to protect the integrity of the faith.
2 John is a concise letter that reinforces the core Christian principles of truth, love, and obedience. Through its themes of adherence to the truth, the connection between love and obedience, and the need for discernment in dealing with false teachers, the letter encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to guard against anything that would compromise the truth of the Gospel. It serves as a reminder of the importance of living out the Christian faith with both love and discernment.
What I Noticed Today (2 John, 3 John, Jude 1)
2 John 1
In verses 1-3, John introduces himself only as “The Elder.” The letter is addressed to the “elect Lady and her children.”
Note: The Greek word for elder, presbyteros, could mean either an older man, an official position in the church, or both. In some older manuscripts, all the original apostles were referred to as elders.
Note: “elect lady” likely refers to a congregation, and the “children” its members.
- The truth that remains in us will be with us forever is a reference to the Gospel.
- Grace, mercy, and peace will be with us from God the Father, and Jesus, Son of the Father.
In verses 4-11, John exhorts the congregation to be obedient to God and resist false teachers.
- I am glad to find some [not all] of your children walking in the truth.
- I urge you now to love one another.
- And this is love; that we walk according to God’s commands.
- Many deceivers do not confess the coming of Christ in the flesh. They are deceivers and antichrists.
Note: Verse 7 in Greek starts with “Because.” It is important for people to walk in love and follow God’s commands because deceivers are in the world.
Note: The deceivers John is referring to claimed that Jesus was fully divine but not fully human; that He did not come in the flesh.
- Guard yourself, so you don’t lose what we have worked for and receive your full reward.
Note: John is not suggesting they would lose their salvation but their reward is in heaven.
- Anyone who goes beyond Christ’s teaching does not have God.
- The one who remains in Christ’s teaching has both the Son and the Father.
- Reject anyone who does not bring this teaching. Do not share in their evil works.
In verses 12-13, John closes with a farewell greeting. He acknowledges that he has much more to tell them but hopes to see them in person and talk face to face.
- The children of your elect sister send you greetings.
Note: The reference to the “elect sister” in John’s close probably refers to a sister congregation, perhaps one from which John wrote the letter. Also, if the letter were written to a specific “woman” (v. 1), greetings would not likely be from the sister’s children (v. 13).
All the notes for the book of 2 John have been compiled into a single pdf document. You can download it by clicking here.
3 John 1
There is a short introduction available for the book of 3 John. You can read it here.
Key Themes (3 John)
The book of 3 John is the shortest book in the New Testament and is a personal letter traditionally attributed to the Apostle John. It is addressed to a Christian named Gaius and focuses on issues related to hospitality, leadership, and support for those who spread the Gospel. The letter contrasts the behavior of two individuals—Gaius, who is commended, and Diotrephes, who is rebuked. The key themes include:
- Hospitality and Support for Missionaries: A central theme in 3 John is the importance of showing hospitality and support to itinerant Christian workers, such as missionaries and evangelists. John commends Gaius for his faithful support and hospitality to these traveling preachers, even though they were strangers to him. This theme emphasizes the vital role of hospitality and generosity in advancing the mission of the Church and the importance of aiding those who labor in spreading the Gospel.
- Imitating Good and Rejecting Evil: John encourages Gaius to continue doing good by supporting godly workers and warns against imitating the behavior of those who do evil. He contrasts Gaius’ positive example with the negative behavior of Diotrephes, who rejected John’s authority and mistreated other believers. This theme underscores the importance of following righteous examples within the Christian community and rejecting those who act in ways contrary to the teachings of Christ.
- Authority and Leadership in the Church: The letter addresses issues of leadership within the church, specifically highlighting the actions of Diotrephes, who is criticized for his pride, rejection of apostolic authority, and divisive behavior. John plans to address Diotrephes’ actions when he visits. This theme emphasizes the need for humility, accountability, and proper conduct among church leaders, as well as the importance of respecting apostolic authority.
- The Role of Truth in Christian Life: John expresses his joy that Gaius is "walking in the truth," indicating that Gaius is living according to the teachings of the Gospel. The theme of truth is central to John’s letters, and in 3 John, it highlights the importance of living a life consistent with the truth of Christ’s teachings. This theme underscores the connection between truth and the integrity of one’s actions, particularly in the context of hospitality and leadership.
- Personal Relationships and Encouragement: 3 John reflects the close personal relationships within the early Christian community, as John expresses his affection for Gaius and his desire to see him face to face. The letter also serves as an encouragement to Gaius to continue his good work and to stand firm in the face of opposition. This theme highlights the value of personal encouragement and support within the Christian community, especially among leaders and those who are actively involved in ministry.
3 John is a personal and practical letter that addresses important issues related to hospitality, leadership, and the practice of truth within the Christian community. Through its themes of supporting missionaries, imitating good, exercising proper leadership, and maintaining personal relationships, the letter provides guidance on how to live out the Christian faith in a way that honors God and advances the mission of the Church. It calls for believers to be generous, truthful, and discerning in their interactions with others.
In verses 1-4, John introduces himself as “The Elder,” and addresses the letter to his dear friend Gaius.
Note: The Greek word for elder, presbyteros, could mean either an older man, an official position in the church, or both. In some older manuscripts, all the original apostles were referred to as elders.
Note: The phrase “My dear friend” is a translation of the Greek to agapeto, meaning beloved. John addresses Gaius this way in verse 1, 2, 5, and 11.
- John offers prayers for Gaius’ health and prosperity and is joyful to hear that Gaius is walking in the truth.
- John refers to Gaius as one of his children, indicating John may have converted Gaius.
In verses 5-8, John commends Gaius for his faithfulness:
- You are showing faithfulness by what you are doing for the brothers, especially when they are strangers.
- They have testified of your love in the church.
- You will do well to send them on a journey worthy of God (physical and monetary provisions).
- They take nothing from the pagans.
- Therefore, we ought to support men such as this who are co-workers in the truth (spreading the Gospel).
Note: The idea of “support” means to be in partnership with men who are doing this work of spreading the Gospel.
In verses 9-11, John condemns Diotrephes and commends Demetrius:
- John indicates he has written to the church previously, but Diotrephes, who puts himself first, does not receive the word from John.
- When I come, I will remind him of the slandering and malicious words.
- He refuses to welcome the brothers and, worse, prevents those who want to welcome them, and expels them from the church.
- Do not imitate what is evil, but what is good.
- The one who does good is of God. The one who does evil has not seen God.
- Demetrius has a good testimony from everyone, including myself, and you know my testimony is true.
In verses 13-14, John closes with a farewell greeting. He acknowledges that he has much more to tell him (Gaius) but hopes to see him in person and talk face-to-face.
Note: The Demetrius John refers to here is not the same Demetrius the silversmith referred to in Acts 19:24.
All the notes for the book of 3 John have been compiled into a single pdf document. You can download it by clicking here.
Jude 1
There is a short introduction available for the book of Jude. You can read it here.
Key Themes (Jude)
The book of Jude, a brief letter in the New Testament, is traditionally attributed to Jude, the brother of Jesus. It is a strong warning against false teachers who have infiltrated the Christian community, and it calls believers to contend for the faith. Jude emphasizes the importance of staying faithful to the teachings of Christ and living a holy life in the face of growing apostasy. The key themes include:
- Contending for the Faith: A central theme in Jude is the call to "contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints." Jude urges believers to defend the core truths of the Gospel against false teachings and heresies that threaten to corrupt the faith. This theme emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the true doctrine of Christianity and actively opposing falsehoods that undermine the Gospel.
- The Danger of False Teachers: Jude strongly warns against false teachers who have secretly slipped into the church. These individuals are described as ungodly, morally corrupt, and devoid of the Spirit. Jude compares them to notorious sinners from the Old Testament, such as Cain, Balaam, and Korah, who led others astray. This theme underscores the threat posed by false teachers and the need for vigilance and discernment within the Christian community.
- God’s Judgment on the Ungodly: Jude reminds his readers of the certainty of God’s judgment against the ungodly, drawing on examples from the past, such as the judgment on the fallen angels, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, and the punishment of Israel in the wilderness. This theme highlights the inevitability of divine justice and serves as a warning to those who would lead others into sin and rebellion against God.
- The Call to Holiness and Perseverance: Jude encourages believers to build themselves up in their most holy faith, to pray in the Holy Spirit, and to keep themselves in God’s love as they wait for the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ. This theme emphasizes the importance of personal spiritual growth, perseverance, and maintaining a strong relationship with God in the midst of challenging circumstances.
- Mercy and Compassion: Jude advises believers to show mercy to those who are wavering in their faith, to save others by snatching them from the fire, and to be cautious in dealing with those who are deeply entangled in sin. This theme emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to those who are struggling with doubt or sin, combining mercy and compassion with a firm commitment to the truth.
- The Assurance of God’s Protection: Despite the dangers posed by false teachers, Jude closes his letter with a doxology that affirms God’s ability to keep believers from stumbling and to present them blameless before His glory with great joy. This theme reassures believers of God’s power to protect and preserve them as they remain faithful to Him.
Jude is a powerful and urgent letter that addresses the dangers of false teachings and the need for believers to remain steadfast in their faith. Through its themes of contending for the faith, the certainty of God’s judgment, the call to holiness, and the assurance of God’s protection, Jude provides a strong exhortation for Christians to defend the truth, live righteously, and show mercy to those who are struggling. The letter serves as a reminder of the ongoing spiritual battle and the importance of staying rooted in the faith delivered by Christ and the apostles.
In verse 1, Jude introduces himself as a slave of Jesus and the brother of James.
Note: The James referred to here is not James, the son of Zebedee, but in all likelihood is James the half-brother of Jesus. Thus, Jude is also a half-brother of Jesus.
- To all those called and loved by God the Father and kept by Jesus Christ.
Note: Each of the three aspects of the recipients is referred to again in the letter. Those who have been called refers to salvation we share (v. 3), the love of God (v. 21), and the Lord Jesus Christ, who brings eternal life (v. 21, 24).
- May mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you. (Similar to 2 John, and 3 John)
In verses 3-4, Jude’s purpose in writing is a warning about apostasy:
- Jude wished to write about the salvation we share, but….
- I find it necessary to exhort you to contend for the faith.
- Some men are teaching falsehoods in the church. They are ungodly, turning the grace of God into promiscuity and denying the Lord Jesus Christ.
In verses 5-12, Jude provides examples of three apostates who were destroyed:
- The Lord saved those out of Egypt and then destroyed those who did not believe.
- God has kept angels in chains in darkness who deserted their proper dwelling until judgment day.
- God judged with eternal fire, the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah for their sexual immorality and perversions.
- They defiled their flesh, rejected authority, and blasphemed glorious ones.
Note: The phrase “glorious ones” (other translations “celestial beings”) often is used in reference to angels.
- Michael, in a dispute with the Devil over the body of Moses, called on God to judge, rather than condemn Satan himself.
Note: Most scholars agree this story (v. 9) refers to a story from an apocryphal book, The Assumption of Moses, in which Michael and the Devil are arguing over who can take Moses’ body for burial.
- But these people blaspheme anything they don’t understand and destroy themselves in the process. Woe to them, they have become like Cain, Balaam, and Korah, who all rebelled against God.
In verses 12-19, Jude describes the judgment coming to present day apostates:
- These dangerous apostates feast with you, nurturing only themselves.
- They are like waterless clouds; fruitless trees twice dead, pulled out by the roots; wild waves foaming up (raging back and forth only producing foam), or wandering stars of blackness (shooting stars bright for a moment then dark).
Note: Jude is not describing unfruitful believers but apostates who have rejected God and will spend eternity in darkness.
- Enoch prophesied about them (Enoch 1:9). The Lord will come with thousands of angels to execute judgment on them for their ungodly acts and things they have said against God.
- They are discontented grumblers living according to their desires. They are arrogant, flattering people for their own advantage.
- But you remember what the Lord told you; in the end times, there will be scoffers walking according to their own desires (Acts 20:29-30).
- These people create division and are unbelievers. They do not have the Holy Spirit in them.
In verses 20-23, Jude exhorts them to build themselves up:
- Build yourselves up in the faith and pray in the Holy Spirit.
- Keep yourselves in love with God, expecting the mercy of our Lord Jesus for eternal life.
- Have mercy on those who doubt.
- Save others by snatching them from the fire of hell (Amos 4:11).
- Show mercy to heretics, but be wary of them lest you be defiled by them.
In verses 22-23, Jude closes the letter with a benediction.
Some thoughts for additional consideration:
- John points out there are those who know the truth but don’t practice it. There are those who practice the truth but won’t defend it. And there are those who go beyond the truth, adding to God’s commands. We have all three still today.
- Jude commands us to contend for the faith, to build ourselves up in the faith, to save others from the fire of hell, and to be wary of heretics who would defile our relationship with the Father and the Son.
What did you notice in your study today? Feel free to visit the website and leave a question or a comment.