Scripture Readings - II John

II John

The Second Epistle of John was written to a specific Christian community, described by the Apostle as the “elect lady” (v. 1). This expression is traditionally understood to refer to a particular Church, most likely one of the Churches in Asia Minor.

Like the First Epistle of John, this letter has traditionally been attributed by the Church to St. John the Evangelist and was written toward the end of the first century. Although the letter is brief, it repeats several of the central teachings found in 1 John, particularly the importance of truth, love, obedience, and faithfulness to the teaching of Christ.

St. John also gives a strong warning concerning false teachers who deny the truth about Jesus Christ. He instructs the faithful to be careful about offering hospitality or support to those who spread false doctrine, since doing so could contribute to the spread of error (vv. 7–11).

The Second Epistle of John therefore serves as a brief but important reminder that Christians are called to walk in truth and love while remaining faithful to the Gospel and discerning toward teachings that contradict the faith of the Church.