1The elder unto the elect lady and her children , whom I love in the truth ; and not I only , but also all they that have known the truth ; 2For the truth’s sake , which dwelleth in us , and shall be with us for ever . 3Grace be with you , mercy , and peace , from God the Father , and from the Lord Jesus Christ , the Son of the Father , in truth and love .
Walking in Truth and Love
4I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth , as we have received a commandment from the Father . 5And now I beseech thee , lady , not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee , but that which we had from the beginning , that we love one another . 6And this is love , that we walk after his commandments . This is the commandment , That , as ye have heard from the beginning , ye should walk in it .
Warning Against Deceivers
7For many deceivers are entered into the world , who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh . This is a deceiver and an antichrist . 8Look to yourselves , that we lose not those things which we have wrought , but that we receive a full reward . 9Whosoever transgresseth , and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ , hath not God . He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ , he hath both the Father and the Son . 10If there come any unto you , and bring not this doctrine , receive him not into your house , neither bid him God speed : 11For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds .
Conclusion and Final Exhortation
12Having many things to write unto you , I would not write with paper and ink : but I trust to come unto you , and speak face to face , that our joy may be full . 13The children of thy elect sister greet thee . Amen .