2 John 1:1-13
Having revealed the characteristics of truth in his first epistle, the apostle goes on in two short letters to show us this truth in practice. In this instance he does not choose a father in the faith for an example (1 John 2:13), but a Christian lady with her children, some of whom were walking in the truth, much to his great joy. You young Christians should know that nothing pleases those who love you more than seeing you not only knowing, but walking in accordance with the teachings of the Word (v. 4; 3 John 1:4). The behaviour of the children provides the most obvious proof that a Christian home is governed by the truth. In an age when there is so much corruption, the home is the one remaining place where the child can grow up protected from the world’s filth. But there comes a time when truth must be defended against the enemies outside (v. 10; Acts 20:30). True love makes it our responsibility not to let such people in. Would we tolerate a visitor who came to tell us lies about our mother or somebody dear to us? The Christian lady, the converted child are here urged not to talk things over with these people, but . . . to close the door on them. Truth is our greatest treasure. Let us not sell it cheaply (Proverbs 23:23)!