2 John 1
October 19, 2022
“I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.” (v12)
If anyone’s writings had value, it was the Apostles’. I’m so grateful they took the time to write these letters that teach us more about Christ and what it means to follow Him. And yet even they preferred communicating in person. John says it’s “face to face” (v12) visits that will bring joy. It reminds me of the difference between video recording church (which has the benefit of communicating the Word to those who are absent), and gathering together in-person. Just as “Jesus came in the flesh” (v7), as opposed to sending us a letter, so we, too, value gathering together with one another in person.
Lord Jesus, I praise You for leaving Your throne in heaven to come to us. You didn’t send a telegram or a letter or even a video recording. You came, in person, to communicate the truth and the depth of Your love. Grow in me an appreciation for Your incarnation. And may I, too, live an incarnational life, making space for “face to face” (v12) interactions with Your people, knowing that this is for “our joy” (v12).
— Pastor Joshua Brooks
Use the following steps to guide your daily time with the Lord…
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Start with prayer. Ask God to open your heart to help you understand and receive His Word.
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Read and observe the passage carefully. As needed, read a second Bible version to help with understanding.
➡️ What does it say?
What does this passage teach me about God? What does it say about my sinful nature and my need for God’s grace? How does this passage point to Jesus?
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➡️ What am I going to do about it?
Does this passage include a promise to claim, an action/attitude to avoid/embrace, or a principle to apply? How can this truth apply to my life? What could my next step be? How can I share this with others? Is there a verse or section of Scripture I need to memorize?
