How can we apply the message of 2 John 1:13 in our church today? A Family Greeting with Lasting Significance “The children of your elect sister greet you. Amen.” (2 John 1:13) Key Observations - A literal, Spirit-inspired closing: John passes along a greeting from believers (“children”) linked to another “elect sister” (a fellow congregation or a godly woman). - The term “elect” underscores God’s sovereign choice (cf. Ephesians 1:4-5). - The greeting is not filler; it testifies to tangible love and unity among churches. Why This Matters Today - Scripture’s closing lines carry as much weight as its opening lines. Every word is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16). - Warm inter-church fellowship is part of apostolic doctrine, not a modern add-on (Acts 15:23, 1 Corinthians 16:19-20). - Public acknowledgment of other congregations reminds us we belong to one body (Ephesians 4:4). Living It Out in Our Congregation • Cultivate family language – Regularly speak of sister churches as “family,” reinforcing our shared election in Christ. • Share greetings intentionally – During services read brief updates or greetings from like-minded assemblies, modeling John’s practice. • Encourage children and youth participation – Let “the children” send their own handwritten notes or videos to partner congregations, reflecting 2 John 1:13. • Pray publicly for sister fellowships – Name specific churches in corporate prayer, celebrating God’s work beyond our walls (Colossians 4:12-13). • Practice mutual hospitality – Host visiting believers and missionaries, following the pattern of 3 John 5-8 and Hebrews 13:2. • Rejoice in God’s electing grace – Teach on election as a comfort that unites believers rather than divides (Romans 8:33). • Guard shared truth and love – Stand together against error, just as the earlier verses of 2 John exhort (vv. 7-11), combining doctrinal fidelity with brotherly affection. Supporting Scriptures - Romans 12:10 – “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another.” - 1 Peter 5:14 – “Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.” - 3 John 14 – “Peace be with you. The friends here send you greetings. Greet each of our friends by name.” - Hebrews 10:24-25 – “And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together… but encouraging one another…” By embracing the simple yet profound farewell of 2 John 1:13, our church can express genuine familial warmth, celebrate God’s sovereign grace, and strengthen ties with the broader household of faith. |
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