2 John 1:7-13 Beware of Antichrist Deceivers

Around A.D. 85, the aging apostle John, son of Zebedee and Salome, and brother of James, wrote his second letter of encouragement to the churches throughout the region or “Ekklesia,” Greek for gathering.

While Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles focused on the saved, John’s outreach was targeted more at non-believers, skeptics and false teachers.

7 For many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.” (2 John 7)

John warns us of false teachers out to deceive seekers by straying from the truth and fulfillment of the gospel. Anyone preaching a message other than Christ’s is guilty of blasphemy, the only unforgivable sin. The apostle labels such hypocrites as deceivers, servants of self and Satan headed for the lake of fire where agony and suffering reigns for all eternity.

8 Look to yourselves, that we do not lose those things we worked for, but that we may receive a full reward. 9 Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son.” (2 John 8-9)

Because the Christian life is filled with opportunities and exposure to numerous teachers, we are called to be on the lookout for blasphemy and deceit among the church, where wolves in sheep’s clothing constantly roam for prey.

John calls out those hypocrites who abide by a gospel other than Christ’s, as each one dwells in his own filth toiling for evil, rather than laboring in God’s Holy name spreading brotherly love to no end.

Those in Christ are easily identified by their works, to be rewarded according to the perfect will and judgment of Yahweh, the God of Abraham and ruler over all mankind.

10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him; 11 for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.” (2 John 10-11)

False teaching is so destructive among the church, John commands believers to steer clear of blasphemous teachers by avoiding them all together. The word teaches us such transgressors of the truth are not even deserving of a greeting or invitation; beware of these hypocrites on the prowl for your soul!

Anyone sharing with such individuals is robbing himself of the joy that comes along faith inspired obedience. By defying Yahweh, such transgressors call on the Lord to place judgment upon them and their seed.

12 Having many things to write to you, I did not wish to do so with paper and ink; but I hope to come to you and speak face to face, that our joy may be full. 13 The children of your elect sister greet you. Amen.” (2 John 12-13)

John shares he has much more to discuss on this matter, and feels the Lord would be better served to have these issues resolved in person rather than through this letter, however encouraging.

In his salutation, the apostle mentions the “elect sister,” which was the church where he spent his later days on the island of Patmos in the Agean Sea. Let’s pray!

Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant John,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.

Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.

God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.

May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.

We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.

Praise God,
Amen!

This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: danielstpierre@thrivethroughchrist.com

Posted in Bible Studies.

Daniel St.Pierre