63 - 2 John
TLDR: The shortest NT book (by verse count in one chapter): love one another; watch out for deceivers who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. "Walk in love." Do not welcome such into your house.
Overarching Storyline
Elder to the chosen lady and her children (v. 1–3). Walk in love (v. 4–6). Deceivers; do not welcome them (v. 7–11). Closing (v. 12–13).
Bible Project: 2 John overview.
Pegs for Memorizing This Book
- Person: The elder; the chosen lady and her children.
- Image: Walking in truth, deceiver, house.
- Number: 1 (chapter; 13 verses).
- Phrase: "Walk in love" (v. 6); "Do not welcome" the deceiver (v. 10).
Highlights
- 2 John 6 — Love means walking in obedience to his commands.
- 2 John 7 — Many deceivers have gone out; they do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh.
(Link to verse entries and meditations as added.)
Before and After
- Before: 1 John; 2 John is a brief note with the same themes — truth, love, antichrist.
- After: 3 John; 2 John warns against welcoming deceivers; 3 John commends hospitality to workers.
Place in the Overarching Biblical Story
Truth and hospitality. Love and truth go together; do not extend fellowship to those who deny Christ come in the flesh. Complements 1 John's teaching on antichrists.
Interesting Facts
- Chosen lady — May be a church personified or a literal woman and her household.
- Shortest NT book — 13 verses; 3 John is 15 verses (both one chapter).