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In Order. You'll See Him Soon

December 27. 2 John – 3 John

 

 

Both of these letters, written by the elder John. conclude with the same thought;

 

2 John 12 I have much more to say to you, but I don’t want to do it with paper and ink. For I hope to visit you soon and talk with you face to face. Then our joy will be complete.

 

As well, they both begin with the same focus; a letter written to, and specifically directed towards an individual. In 2 John it is to a special woman and her children, and in 3 John it is for his dear friend.

 

In both letters, John begins by expressing his joy because of how they have chosen to live their lives.

 

2 John 4 How happy I was to meet some of your children and find them living according to the truth, just as the Father commanded.

 

3 John 3 Some of the traveling teachers recently returned and made me very happy by telling me about your faithfulness and that you are living according to the truth. I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children are following the truth.

 

These positive and encouraging words are followed, in both letters, with a short but important warning against those who do not believe that Christ is the Son of God, and a warning in regards to those who call themselves Christians but do not act Christ-like.

 

These are brief letters, very similar in structure and intent, but what a detailed and amazing picture they paint for you as you read through them. Imagine how God feels about you. You are that special person to Him. He wants you as His friend as well. Your obedience, faithfulness, and love bring joy to your Heavenly Father. If you are careful to notice, God’s encouragement and words of love and strength are being communicated to you as clearly as John shared his heart and thoughts with these special people.

 

Of course, a good parent or a good friend would not only encourage, but he or she would also not be afraid to warn and correct as needed, knowing that it is for the good of the hearer. God is the perfect Father and just as important His words of encouragement you will do well to be careful to hear and heed His words of warning and correction.

 

But perhaps the most exciting portion of these short letters is found in the conclusion; I have much more to say, but I will save it for when we can talk face to face.  God has written you an amazing letter called the Bible, His Word. It is truth that contains encouragement, correction, and warnings. As powerful and life-changing it is to read His word, be assured that one day if you are His child and friend, you will be with Him, and His Son, Jesus Christ, the Word incarnate. No more need of paper and ink, you will be face to face with your Lord and Savior. Soon. Hope. Tell someone else.