Day 340

Hosea 4:1–5:15; 2 John 1:1-13; Psalm 125:1-5; Proverbs 29:9-11

TODAY WE READ John’s second letter in its entirety. This letter was probably written shortly after the first one, and it was likely written to the same people, because of the similarities. These similarities are one of the reasons that most scholars accept John as the authentic author. Since it is believed that John spent his latter years in Ephesus, that is likely where he penned 2 John.

The letter contains thirteen verses. The first three are words of greeting. The next three remind us of the importance of love —specifically, loving one another. The next three speak against the false teaching of Docetism —as did the first letter. The next two verses offer instruction not found in the first letter. These verses advise the readers on how to behave toward a traveling teacher who attempts to introduce false teaching into the church. Specifically, the church is not to offer encouragement or hospitality. The final two verses conclude the letter.

It would be easy to allow 1 and 2 John to blur together because much of the terrain is the same. If we take a deep breath and imagine that months have gone by, and the impact of the first letter is diminishing because of the challenges being faced, then we’ll be in the right head and heart space.

The letter would have arrived when the readers needed an extra boost and a clear reminder of what the first letter had instructed. Let’s take these reminders to heart. We can never be reminded enough to love one another.

MEDITATION:

Just as the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people, both now and forever.