We all need a reminder now and then about the things that are most important. In the second letter written by the apostle John, he confronts some of the same challenges as he did in his first letter, and once again reminds his readers about the delicate balance of truth and love.
Once again reminds his readers about the delicate balance of truth and love.
In the first verse of 2 John, the apostle addresses the church as “the elect lady and her children,” since the church is the bride of Christ. It’s a reminder of their relationship to God and each other—a relationship dependent upon their continued connection with Christ. Love and truth are the marks of that relationship.
Truth is the absolute standard by which reality is measured. And this understanding of truth was being challenged by false teachers who had gained a hearing among the early believers. In verse 9 he warns, “Anyone who does not remain in Christ’s teaching but goes beyond it does not have God” ( csb). John wanted to set them straight on who Jesus is and call upon them to be discerning about who they are listening to.
It is never a matter of truth or love.
Love is the expression of that church as witnessed in our care for others. It is the truth in action. John says that when the church operates in truth and love, we will experience true intimacy with God. That’s why it is always a priority. “This is the command as you have heard it from the beginning: that you walk in love” (2 John 6 csb).
It is never a matter of truth or love. It is love expressed through our commitment to the truth . . . and truth demonstrated through our love and care for one another.
Here’s a short video that highlights five key themes from the book of 2 John. May you be blessed by it.
