This expository study of the letter of second John was preached at Bethany Community Church, Illinois (Five Points and Washington). Audio and abstracts are available for each lesson.
For as much as the Apostle John was known for his use of the word “love,” a case could be made that he was equally concerned with the substance of truth. In fact, a close look at his letters reveals that John never intends for love and truth to exist separate from one another. Such is reflected in the message of this second recorded correspondence from him. But Pastor Daniel shows how we must be specific in the way we speak of how truth and love relate to each other. Examining John’s words given through the Spirit, he states, “Love is not the foundation for truth; truth is the foundation for love.” This sentence is fleshed out by recognizing, 1) We are chosen by a sovereign God who loves us in truth, 2) We are united by our common confession of truth, 3) We are bound to one another and God for eternity by truth, and 4) We are encouraged by God through truth.
Summary by Seth Kempf, Bethany Community Church Staff
Asking someone to finish the sentence, “Love is…” could yield more varied responses than there are words in the Bible. Even narrowing your question down by only asking those within the church would doubtless provide many unique returns. 1 Corinthians 13 would likely be a first source cited, but it may take a bit for believers to answer from 2 John. “Love is a command” just might be a bit further back in people’s minds. But it wasn’t that way for John. Thankfully though, he explained what he meant by this. Pastor Daniel summarizes the Apostle John’s words by stating, “Encouragement to grow in love must be done with truth and love.”
Summary by Seth Kempf, Bethany Community Church Staff
The word “heretic” perhaps brings to mind all kinds of thoughts and images. Are they people who get burned at the stake? Is it an old, outdated term that no longer applies to our modern society where tolerance of [almost] everyone is king? The Apostle John was not interested in mincing words when it came to this subject. He called such “heretics” by another name—deceivers—and he made clear how the church was to respond to them: “Watch yourselves!” Pastor Daniel unpacks this by stating, “Those who love in truth must protect the truth.” He ask (and answers from the text), 1) What is a false teacher? 2) Why is a false teacher dangerous? and 3) How do we respond to false teachers?
Summary by Seth Kempf, Bethany Community Church Staff