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Summary

The website content provides a study guide for Day 361, focusing on the analysis of 2 John 1 and 3 John 1, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the teachings of Christ, the historical attribution of these letters to John the Apostle, and the practical applications of their messages to modern Christian life.

Abstract

The Bible Study Guide for Day 361 delves into the epistles of 2 John and 3 John, both traditionally attributed to the Apostle John. The guide discusses the significance of remaining grounded in Christ's teachings as mentioned in 2 John 1:9, which warns that straying from these teachings results in a lack of fellowship with God. The author of the guide, referred to as "the elder," is believed to be John the Apostle, who also authored the Gospel of John and the Book of Revelation. The second letter is addressed to a "chosen lady" and her children, symbolizing a local congregation, while the third letter is directed to a man named Gaius, praising his hospitality and support for traveling missionaries. The elder condemns the behavior of Diotrephes, who refused to welcome these missionaries, thus exemplifying the importance of hospitality and support for those spreading the gospel, as well as the need to discern and avoid false teachings. The guide encourages believers to align their lives with biblical teachings, practice hospitality, and engage in community and fellowship to grow in their faith.

Opinions

  • The author of the study guide believes that John the Apostle is the likely author of 2 John and 3 John, a view supported by the prevailing scholarly consensus.
  • It is emphasized that staying true to the teachings of Christ is crucial for maintaining a relationship with God, as diverging from these teachings can lead one astray.
  • The guide suggests that the "chosen lady" in 2 John is a metaphor for a local church congregation, indicating that the letter's message is meant for a broader Christian audience.
  • The study guide commends Gaius for his support of traveling missionaries and contrasts his behavior with Diotrephes' uncooperative and obstructive actions within the church.
  • There is an opinion that Christians today should be discerning, ensuring that their beliefs and practices are consistent with biblical teachings and not merely following popular trends or teachings that may be deceptive.
  • The importance of hospitality and community support in the Christian faith is highlighted, with an encouragement to believers to emulate Gaius' example in welcoming and aiding those who preach the gospel.

Bible Study Guide Day 361: 2 John 1, 3 John 1

Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son.

2 John 1:9

Photo by Joel Henry on Unsplash

Both of these books are authored by an individual who identifies himself as “the elder,” a term commonly used to refer to a pastoral leader within the church.

It is widely believed that this individual is John the Apostle, also known as “The Disciple Jesus Loved” and the author of the Gospel of John and 1 John. Many scholars attribute the authorship of the book of Revelation to John as well.

While alternative theories exist regarding the authorship of these books, the prevailing consensus points to John the Apostle as their writer.

2 John 1

The second letter of John is addressed to a “chosen lady and her children,” likely referring to a local congregation and its members. This letter, like many others in the New Testament, was intended to be circulated among multiple churches for their edification.

In this short but powerful letter, the elder highlights the importance of continuing in the teaching of Christ. He warns against the antichrist and urges the recipients to not be deceived by false teachers.

Today, we can apply this message to our lives by making sure that the teachings we follow are aligned with what is revealed in the Bible. It’s essential to test everything against God’s Word and not be swayed by popular trends or beliefs.

As believers, we must also continue growing in our understanding of Jesus and His teachings. This requires consistent study of the Bible, prayer, and fellowship with other believers.

Photo by Samuel Jerónimo on Unsplash

3 John 1

The third letter of John is addressed to a man named Gaius, who is commended for his hospitality and support of traveling missionaries.

In this letter, the elder also addresses a man named Diotrephes, who was causing trouble within the church by refusing to welcome and support visiting missionaries.

The elder encourages Gaius to continue doing good and not imitate the bad behaviors of Diotrephes. He also highlights the importance of supporting those who are spreading the truth about Jesus.

Today, we can apply this principle by being hospitable and supportive towards our fellow believers, especially those who are serving in ministry and spreading the gospel.

We should also be careful not to be influenced by those who try to hinder or distort the message of Jesus.

Faith
Love
Truth
God
Teaching
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