Monday, 22 June 2020
I rejoiced greatly that I have found some of your children walking in truth, as we received commandment from the Father. 2 John -4
John just conferred a blessing upon his recipient saying, “Grace, mercy, and peace will be with you … in truth and love.” He now brings in a happy note concerning both truth and love, even though love is not directly stated in this verse. He begins with, “I rejoiced greatly.”
He uses the word lian, which signifies “exceedingly” by taking a thought and elevating it to a higher level. John was truly overjoyed, as he next says, “that I have found some of your children walking in truth.” The Greek word translated as “of your children” is obscure. It more literally says, “out of your children.” Thus, it is inferred that a portion of the whole, or “some,” is implied.
This doesn’t mean that some are not, but it could simply be that John observed a part of the body, and they were all walking in the truth. If the portion reflects the whole, then the whole is a well-grounded body. In other words, if a group from a church were to visit another church, and that group was very grounded in proper doctrine, it could be assumed that all the rest were likewise grounded. This would certainly be a cause for rejoicing greatly.
It is important to note that the state of any other children is not noted. Thus, either an inference concerning the whole is implied, or John was being courteous to only speak of those who were actually walking in the truth. Either way, it is a note of encouragement, focusing on the positive.
From there, he finishes with, “as we received commandment from the Father.” The Father is considered the Source of all such things. For example, Jesus said, “And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son” (John 14:31). This type of sentiment is repeated by Jesus elsewhere. The Father is considered the Source, whereas Jesus is the instrument through which the Father works. Therefore, a commandment from Jesus originally stems from the will of the Father.
The believers John is referring to were walking in the truth. But, as noted above, they were also walking in love (which John spoke of in the previous verse). That will be seen in verse 5.
Life application: If you read the seven letters to the seven churches in Revelation 2 and 3, John follows a similar pattern to these letters because he first introduces a word of encouragement and commendation. This is a good way of setting the tone in any letter and makes saying any negative thoughts easier. It also allows those negatives aspects to be received more favorably. A note of encouragement should be repeated at the end of a letter as well if at all possible.
In his opening words, “I rejoice that,” his tone is acknowledging to his addressee that she has been a part of what brought her children to this state. The tense of what he is saying is that they were not only found in a good light, but that they are continuing on in that same walk.
In the final part of the verse where John says, “as we received commandment from the Father,” it is not speaking of a specific commandment, but rather it embodies the entire teaching of Scripture which was available at the time along with any oral directives from the apostles.
Today, when we see someone who is faithfully following the Lord and is setting an example for those around him to act in the same manner, we should take the time to acknowledge his faithfulness. It is good and proper, and it will also likely spur him on to an even greater witness in the future.
Heavenly Father, give us the wisdom and desire to walk in Your truth and to follow Your commands. And also give us the ability to lead others down that same path as well. May our walk be as faithful witnesses and lights to those whose eyes are watching. We pray this so that You will be glorified in their lives as well! Amen.