Salutation
1The elder to the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth, and not only I but also all who know the truth,* 2because of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever:
3Grace, mercy, and peace will be with us from God the Father and froma Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, in truth and love.*
Truth and Love
4I was overjoyed to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as we have been commanded by the Father. 5But now, dear lady, I ask you, not as though I were writing you a new commandment but one we have had from the beginning: let us love one another.* 6And this is love, that we walk according to his commandments; this is the commandment just as you have heard it from the beginning—you must walk in it.*
7Many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh; any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist!* 8Be on your guard, so that you do not lose what web have worked for but may receive a full reward.* 9Everyone who does not abide in the teaching of Christ, but goes beyond it,c does not have God; whoever abides in the teachingd has both the Father and the Son.* 10If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive and welcome this person into your house,* 11for to welcome is to participate in the evil deeds of such a person.*
Final Greetings
12Although I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink; instead, I hope to come to you and talk with you face to face, so that oure joy may be complete.*
13The children of your elect sister send you their greetings.f