2 John 1: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 John 1 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The elder addresses a chosen lady and her children, expressing love in truth (vv. 1-3). He rejoices in finding some of her children walking in truth, as commanded by the Father (vv. 4-6). The elder warns of many deceivers in the world who do not confess Jesus Christ came in the flesh, labeling them as deceivers and Antichrists (vv. 7-9). He instructs the lady not to welcome anyone who does not bring the teaching of Christ, as doing so would mean participating in their evil deeds (vv. 10-11). The elder states that he has more to write but prefers to communicate face to face for a fuller joy (vv. 12-13). He concludes with greetings from the children of her chosen sister.

Key verse

“This is love, that we should walk according to his commandments. This is the commandment, even as you heard from the beginning, that you should walk in it.”
2 John 1:6 (WEB)

Outline

2 John 1:1–3 Greeting and Affirmation of Love
2 John 1:4–6 Joy in Observing Truthful Living
2 John 1:7–9 Warning Against Deceivers
2 John 1:10–11 Caution on Welcoming False Teachers
2 John 1:12–13 Desire for Personal Communication

Discussion questions

In v4, who does the elder find 'walking in truth'?
What does the elder beg the chosen lady in v5 to do?
The phrase 'the Antichrist' in v7: what does it suggest about the nature of the deceivers?
In v9, why does John emphasize 'the teaching of Christ' as essential for having God?
In v10, when have you welcomed someone whose views conflicted with your beliefs?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 John 1: John 14, 1 John 2, John 15.

Before next time: read 3 John 1.