John’s second letter, while much shorter than the first, covers very similar ground. He is urging a particular church, referred to as “the chosen lady,” to stand strong against false teachers who deny the truth about Jesus and promote something other than a life of love. Put in the positive, these dear believers are to be “living according to the truth” (v. 4) which is clarified as “the truth about Christ” (v. 10). This way of life is revealed in their love for one another. Once again, John wants what Jesus said back in John 13:34-35 to be ringing in their ears – and in our ears as well.
Given such a strong emphasis on “the truth” (mentioned five times in the first four verses), be praying for the leaders of your church, that they would know, teach and live the truth, creating a community of Christ-followers who are truly walking in love.