2 John 1:8

Watch yourselves, so that you do not lose what we have worked for, but that you may be fully rewarded.

Study Bible

Watch yourselves
The Greek word for "watch" is "βλέπετε" (blepete), which means to be vigilant or to take heed. This is a call to self-examination and awareness, urging believers to be on guard against false teachings and influences that could lead them astray. In the historical context of the early church, false teachers were prevalent, and the apostle John emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility in maintaining the purity of the faith. This vigilance is not just a passive observation but an active, ongoing effort to protect one's spiritual integrity.

so that you do not lose
The phrase "do not lose" comes from the Greek "ἀπολέσητε" (apolesete), which implies destruction or loss. This is a warning against the potential spiritual loss that can occur if believers are not careful. The early church faced many challenges, including persecution and doctrinal errors, which could lead to a loss of spiritual progress and rewards. The emphasis here is on the importance of perseverance and steadfastness in the faith.

what we have worked for
The Greek word "εἰργασάμεθα" (eirgasametha) refers to labor or toil. This highlights the collective effort of the apostolic ministry and the early church community in establishing and nurturing the faith. The apostles and early Christians invested significant time, energy, and resources in spreading the Gospel and building up the church. This phrase serves as a reminder of the value of their labor and the importance of safeguarding the fruits of their efforts.

but that you may be fully rewarded
The term "fully rewarded" is derived from the Greek "μισθὸν πλήρη" (misthon plērē), indicating a complete or abundant recompense. This speaks to the eternal rewards that await those who remain faithful to the teachings of Christ. In a conservative Christian perspective, this reward is not merely material or temporal but is ultimately spiritual and eternal, reflecting the believer's faithfulness and obedience to God. The promise of a full reward serves as an encouragement to persevere in the face of trials and to remain steadfast in the truth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. John the Apostle
The author of this epistle, John was one of Jesus' closest disciples and a key leader in the early church. He wrote this letter to encourage and warn believers about false teachings.

2. The Elect Lady and Her Children
The recipients of the letter, possibly a specific woman and her family or a metaphor for a local church and its members.

3. False Teachers
Individuals who were spreading deceptive doctrines contrary to the teachings of Christ, which John warns against in this letter.

Teaching Points

Vigilance in Faith
Believers must be watchful and discerning, guarding against false teachings that can lead them astray from the truth of the Gospel.

Perseverance in Doctrine
Holding fast to the teachings of Christ is crucial. This perseverance ensures that the work done in faith is not in vain and leads to a full reward.

Community Accountability
The call to "watch yourselves" implies a communal responsibility. Believers should encourage and hold each other accountable in maintaining sound doctrine.

Eternal Perspective
The concept of being "fully rewarded" reminds believers to focus on eternal rewards rather than temporary gains, motivating them to live faithfully.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some practical ways you can "watch yourself" to ensure you remain in the truth of the Gospel?

2. How can the community of believers help each other avoid the pitfalls of false teachings?

3. In what ways does the promise of a "full reward" motivate you to persevere in your faith journey?

4. How does understanding the original Greek word for "reward" (misthos) deepen your appreciation for the eternal rewards promised in Scripture?

5. Can you identify any modern-day teachings or ideologies that might threaten the integrity of the Gospel message? How should believers respond to these challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 John 2:24-25
This passage emphasizes the importance of abiding in the teachings of Christ to receive the promise of eternal life, similar to the warning in 2 John 1:8 about not losing what has been worked for.

Philippians 3:14
Paul speaks about pressing on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly calling, which aligns with the idea of being fully rewarded as mentioned in 2 John 1:8.

Hebrews 10:35-36
Encourages believers not to throw away their confidence, which has a great reward, echoing the call to vigilance in 2 John 1:8.