JOHN

Greeting

1 The elder to the chosen 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 [a]us from God the Father and from [b]the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.

Walking in Truth and Love

4 I was overjoyed to find some of yoʋr children walking in the truth, just as we have been commanded by the Father. 5 And now I ask yoʋ, dear lady—not as ‡ writing 72.1% {NA27 SBL TH 9.2%} ¦ though I were writing ST 12.4%writing yoʋ a new commandment, but one we have had from the beginning—that we love one another. 6 Now this is love, that we walk according to his commandments. This is the commandment, just as you have heard it from the beginning, that you should walk in it. 7 For many deceivers have [d]come into the world, who do not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh. This is the deceiver and the antichrist. 8 Watch yourselves, so that [e]we do not lose what [f]we have worked for, but may receive a full reward. 9 Everyone who [g]transgresses and does not abide in the teaching of Christ does not have God. Whoever abides in the teaching [h]of Christ has both the [i]Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house, and do not greet him; 11 for whoever greets him takes part in his evil works.

Final Greetings

12 Although I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to come to you and speak face to face, so that [j]our joy may be full.

13 The children of yoʋr chosen sister greet yoʋ. [k]Amen.