Wisdom For Moms
2 John 1-13
Preacher G. Campbell Morgan had four sons and they all became ministers of the gospel. At a family reunion, a friend asked one of the sons, "Which Morgan is the greatest preacher?" While that son looked at his father, he replied, "Mom."
An old Spanish proverb says, “An ounce of mother is worth a pound of clergy.
1. A revelatory opening
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, because of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever: (v. 1-2)
In these first two verses we see two people: (1) The salutor (Elder), and (2) The salutee (elect lady and her children).
We also see the acknowledgment of the Holy Spirit (In truth).
2. Apostolic blessing
Grace, mercy, and peace will be with us, from God the Father and from Jesus Christ the Father's Son, in truth and love. (v. 3)
The Apostle John bestows three blessing upon the woman, her children, and himself:
A) Grace: God's unmerited favor
B) Mercy: God's withheld discipline
C) Peace: God's undeniable presence
3. Apostolic recognition
I rejoiced greatly to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as we were commanded by the Father. (v. 4)
John recognizes the proper instruction that the children have received.
The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother. (Proverbs 29:15)
4. Apostolic request
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. 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. (v. 5-6)
Love is the great motivator for all things. This is especially true in the life of the Christian, because without love, it is impossible to obey God.
5. Apostolic warning
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. Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we have worked for, but may win a full reward. (v. 7-8)
Any teaching that contradicts the Gospel is deceptive in design, and originates from the spiritual realm of Satan. John warns the woman to be watchful, so that she isn't led astray from the Apostolic teachings of the Gospel.
6. Apostolic reproof
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. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house or give him any greeting, for whoever greets him takes part in his wicked works. (v. 9-11)
Here, John admonishes false teachers, stating that they don't have God and are taking part in wicked works.
7. Apostolic visitation and closing remarks.
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. The children of your elect sister greet you. (v. 12-13)
Often, we feel alone in our walk with God. It can seem like the whole world is headed in the wrong direction. In his final words, John expresses his desire to see the woman and her children, and reminds her that others in the faith are thinking about her.
