The Book of 2 John
What is the book of 2 John about?
The book of 2 John tackles the heretical idea that Jesus had not been physically present on earth. The letter may be a reaction to "gnostics," who taught that Jesus was spirit only and that He just appeared to suffer and die on the cross. This teaching should be avoided at all costs - to the point of barring one's door against those who believe it (1:10).
During the first two centuries the gospel was taken from place to place by traveling evangelists and teachers. Believers customarily took these missionaries into their homes and gave them provisions for their journey when they left. Since Gnostic teachers also relied on this practice, 2 John was written to urge discernment in supporting traveling teachers; otherwise, someone might unintentionally contribute to heresy rather than truth.
Who wrote the book of 2 John?
The author of the book of 2 John is the apostle John. In the first verses of both 2 John and 3 John the author identifies himself as "the elder." Similarities to 1 John and the Gospel of John suggest that the same author wrote all three books.
Who is the audience?
The "lady chosen by God," probably a local church in western Asia Minor
Timeframe 2 John was written:
Written around AD 85-95.
"In short" (One sentence summary):
John writes to urge discernment in supporting traveling teachers who deny Jesus' physical life on earth. False teachers at the time were traveling and teaching heresy.
Fun facts about 2 John/Did you know?
2 John is one of four New Testament books that only have a single chapter. This book is the shortest by verse count with only thirteen verses.
