What is the meaning of 2 John 1:3? Grace “Grace…will be with us” (2 John 1:3) • John opens by highlighting the unearned favor God pours out on believers. • As in Ephesians 2:8–9, grace is God acting first—saving, sustaining, and empowering us apart from works. • Because Scripture is true and trustworthy, this greeting is more than polite words; it is God’s sure promise that His grace actively rests on those who walk in Him. Mercy “…mercy…will be with us” • Mercy focuses on God withholding the judgment we deserve (Titus 3:5). • It reminds readers that even seasoned believers need continual compassion (Lamentations 3:22–23). • By placing mercy between grace and peace, John shows that forgiveness bridges God’s favor to our experience of wholeness. Peace “…and peace…will be with us” • Peace (shalom) is God’s gift of inner rest and relational harmony (John 14:27). • It flows from grace received and mercy applied, resulting in confident assurance (Philippians 4:6–7). • John states it “will be with us,” affirming the ongoing, present reality of God-given calm even amid trial. from God the Father “from God the Father…” • The source of every spiritual blessing is the Father (James 1:17). • His initiative guarantees the permanence of grace, mercy, and peace. • This echoes Jesus’ teaching that the Father knows and meets our needs (Matthew 6:8). and from Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father “…and from Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father…” • John stresses Jesus’ divine sonship (John 1:18), affirming His full equality with the Father. • Every blessing comes jointly from Father and Son, underscoring their perfect unity (John 10:30). • Salvation, compassion, and peace are mediated through Christ’s finished work (Romans 5:1). will be with us “…will be with us…” • John speaks with certainty, not mere hope. • The verb “will be” declares a settled reality for all who abide in the truth (John 15:4). • His confidence mirrors Jesus’ promise, “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). in truth and love “…in truth and love.” • These blessings operate where doctrinal truth and practical love converge (Ephesians 4:15). • Truth guards against error; love guards against harshness. • Together they create the environment in which grace, mercy, and peace flourish (1 John 3:18). summary John’s greeting is a Spirit-inspired declaration, not a casual wish. Grace supplies, mercy forgives, and peace settles the hearts of believers. All three flow jointly and assuredly from the Father and the Son, remaining with us as we walk in the inseparable pair of truth and love. |
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