How does 2 John 1:13 emphasize the importance of Christian fellowship and community? Setting the Scene 2 John is a brief, personal letter addressed “to the elect lady and her children.” John ends with these words: “The children of your elect sister greet you. Amen.” (2 John 1:13) Unpacking the Verse • “Children” and “elect sister” point to two households of believers who know and love each other. • John intentionally passes along the sister church’s greeting, underscoring that believers never stand alone; they stand side by side. • The closing “Amen” seals the shared bond in truth. Family Language: A Picture of Togetherness Scripture calls believers “brothers,” “sisters,” and “children,” presenting the church as one spiritual family: • Romans 8:16–17—joint heirs with Christ. • Galatians 6:10—“household of faith.” • 1 Timothy 3:15—“the church of the living God.” The Gift of Shared Greetings Passing greetings may seem small, yet it: • Confirms unity (Romans 16:16). • Refreshes hearts (Philemon 1:7). • Bridges distance—one group physically absent still participates spiritually (Colossians 2:5). Roots in the Teaching of Jesus • John 13:34–35—love marks true discipleship. • John 17:20–23—Jesus prays for oneness “so that the world may know.” 2 John 1:13 is a concrete example of those prayers being lived out. Community Safeguards the Truth • 2 John warns against deceivers (vv. 7–11). • Fellowship provides accountability, discernment, and protection: – Acts 2:42—devoted to “the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship.” – Hebrews 10:24–25—encouraging one another, especially as the Day approaches. Steps for Today • Keep relationships open—share genuine, personal greetings with other believers. • Remember distant brothers and sisters; pray for them by name. • Gather regularly; isolation weakens, community strengthens. • Let affection and truth travel together—uphold doctrine while expressing warmth. 2 John 1:13 may be a single sentence, yet it pulses with the heartbeat of biblical community: believers who know, greet, and support one another in the unbreakable family of God. |
    |