Greeting to Gaius from the Elder

(2 John 1:1-3)

1The Ancient, to the dearly beloved Gaius, whom I love in truth.

2Dearly beloved, concerning all things I make it my prayer that thou mayest proceed prosperously and fare well, as thy soul doth prosperously. 3I was exceedingly glad when the brethren came and gave testimony to the truth in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. 4I have no greater grace than this, to hear that my children walk in truth.

Gaius' Example of Hospitality

5Dearly beloved, thou dost faithfully whatever thou dost for the brethren: and that for strangers, 6Who have given testimony to thy charity in the sight of the church. Whom thou shalt do well to bring forward on their way in a manner worthy of God: 7Because, for his name they went out, taking nothing of the Gentiles. 8We therefore ought to receive such: that we may be fellow helpers of the truth.

Diotrephes and Demetrius

9I had written perhaps to the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, doth not receive us. 10For this cause, if I come, I will advertise his works which he doth; with malicious words prating against us. And as if these things were not enough for him, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and them that do receive them he forbiddeth, and casteth out of the church.

11Dearly beloved, follow not that which is evil: but that which is good. He that doth good is of God: he that doth evil hath not seen God. 12To Demetrius, testimony is given by all, and by the truth itself: yea and we also give testimony. And thou knowest that our testimony is true.

Conclusion

13I had many things to write unto thee: but I would not by ink and pen write to thee.

14But I hope speedily to see thee: and we will speak mouth to mouth. Peace be to thee. Our friends salute thee. Salute the friends by name.