1 The elder to the chosen lady and her children, whom I love in truth—and not only I, but also all who know the truth—
2 because of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever:
3 Grace, mercy, and peace will be withus from God the Father and fromthe Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.
4 I was overjoyed to find some of yoʋr children walking in the truth, just as we have been commanded by the Father.
5 And now I ask yoʋ, dear lady—not aswriting yoʋ a new commandment, but one we have had from the beginning—that we love one another.
6 Now this is love, that we walk according to his commandments. This is the commandment, just as you have heard it from the beginning, that you should walk in it.
7 For many deceivers havecome into the world, who do not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh. This is the deceiver and the antichrist.
8 Watch yourselves, so thatwe do not lose whatwe have worked for, but may receive a full reward.
9 Everyone whotransgresses and does not abide in the teaching of Christ does not have God. Whoever abides in the teachingof Christ has both theFather and the Son.
10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house, and do not greet him;
11 for whoever greets him takes part in his evil works.
12 Although I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to come to you and speak face to face, so thatour joy may be full.
13 The children of yoʋr chosen sister greet yoʋ.