1-2From the elder, John. To the lady chosen by God, and to her children whom I love in the truth; and not only I, but all who know the truth. That truth lives in us and will always be with us.3May God the Father and Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, impart grace, mercy and peace to us in truth and love.4I have been filled with joy to discover that some of your children are walking in the truth, as the Father commanded us.5And now, dear lady, I ask that we should all love one another. I am not writing a new commandment, but one we were given from the beginning.6And this is love for God, that we walk in obedience to His commands. And this is the commandment that you heard from the beginning; this is how we are to walk, in love!7Many deceivers, who do not believe that Jesus is the Messiah who came in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Every such person is a deceiver, the antichrist.8Therefore be careful, ensuring that you do not lose what we have worked for, so that you may receive the full reward of your faith.9Everyone who does not remain in the teaching of Christ in his daily walk does not have relationship with God. But the one who remains in His teaching is in relationship with both the Father and the Son.10-11If anyone who visits you does not bring this teaching, you are not to receive him into your house or even welcome him; for to acknowledge him is to share in his wicked work.12There is much I want to write to you about that cannot be adequately expressed with paper and ink. Still, I am hoping to visit you when we can speak face to face, so that our joy can be complete.13The children of your sister, who is also chosen, send you their love.
Scripture quoted by permission. The passage above is taken from THE TRUTH VERSION. Copyright © 2009 by Colin Urquhart. All rights reserved worldwide. (The Truth New Testament)