December 1, 2021
Can You Handle the Truth?
2 John 1–13
Dyann Kierstead
Central Truth
Be rooted in the truth so that you may love others better.
Key Verse | 2 John 1:2-3
[B]ecause of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever: Grace, mercy, and peace will be with us, from God the Father and from Jesus Christ the Father's Son, in truth and love.
2 John 1–13
Greeting
1 The elder to the elect lady and her children, whom I love in truth, and not only I, but also all who know the truth, 2 because of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever:
3 Grace, mercy, and peace will be with us, from God the Father and from Jesus Christ the Father's Son, in truth and love.
Walking in Truth and Love
4 I rejoiced greatly to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as we were commanded by the Father. 5 And now I ask you, dear lady—not as though I were writing you a new commandment, but the one we have had from the beginning—that we love one another. 6 And this is love, that we walk according to his commandments; this is the commandment, just as you have heard from the beginning, so that you should walk in it. 7 For many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not confess the coming of Jesus Christ in the flesh. Such a one is the deceiver and the antichrist. 8 Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we 1 1:8 Some manuscripts you have worked for, but may win a full reward. 9 Everyone who goes on ahead and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God. Whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house or give him any greeting, 11 for whoever greets him takes part in his wicked works.
Final Greetings
12 Though I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink. Instead I hope to come to you and talk face to face, so that our joy may be complete.
13 The children of your elect sister greet you.
Dive Deeper | 2 John 1–13
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, truth is defined as:
- the body of real things, events, and facts: ACTUALITY
- the state of being the case: FACT
- often capitalized: a transcendent fundamental or spiritual reality
Some truths that we know:
- The sky is blue, but some would argue that it is technically violet or even colorless.
- The earth is round, though flat-earthers would argue otherwise.
- Turtles breathe through their rears. Well, only when they are hibernating.
So, maybe some truths can be subjective, depending on whom you are talking to. But, as believers, we know there is one truth that cannot waver: God loves us so much that He sent his only son, Jesus Christ, to die for us so that we may live in eternity with Him (John 3:16).
In a world that is growing more inclusive, Christianity can be seen as "exclusive" to others who do not understand that one of the main commandments the Lord gives us is to love others (2 John 6). While truth can sound like hate to others, we are still called to love God and to love others (Matthew 22:36-40; 1 John 3:13-15).
Regardless of what the world tells us or the lies, doubts, and distractions that Satan throws our way, stand firm, my fellow brothers and sisters, that the truth will not be shaken, and we must endure until the very end (2 John 1:7-8; Matthew 24:13-14). Some of you might be entering this Christmas season spending time with friends and families who believe something different than you, but do not be discouraged—what a great opportunity it is to share the truth with others!
Discussion Questions
1. 2 John 1:5-6 reminds us of God's command to "love one another." How are you doing at loving your neighbor? What is one thing you can do to serve your neighbor this week?
2. How are you guarding yourself against deceivers of the truth? Are you prepared to distinguish the truth from false teachings? Spend some time meditating on God's Word, and be rooted in the truth regardless of what culture and media might teach is "true."
3. Are there any friends or family members that you could love better this Christmas season? Spend some time praying for them, and make a plan to have intentional conversations with them. If needed, ask forgiveness for not loving them the way we, as believers, are called to.