The elder, to the chosen lady and her children, whom I love in truth; and not only I, but all those who know the truth, 2because of the truth, which remains in us and will be with us forever:
3Grace, mercy, and peace be with us, from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.
4I greatly rejoice to find that some of your children are walking in truth, just as the Father commanded us. 5And now I beg you, dear lady, that we love one another; of course, I’m not writing about some new commandment, but one which we have had from the beginning.
6And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commandments. This is the commandment, just as you have heard from the beginning, so that you should walk in it.
7For many deceivers have gone out into the world: deceivers who don’t acknowledge that Jesus Christ really came in the flesh. Such a person is the deceiver and the antichrist. 8Watch yourselves, that you don’t lose the things which we have worked for, to make sure you receive a full reward. 9Anyone who steps outside of the teaching of Christ doesn’t have God. But whoever remains in His teaching has both the Father and the Son.
10If anyone comes to you and doesn’t bring this teaching, don’t receive him into your house, and don’t welcome him. 11For the one who welcomes him collaborates in his evil work.
12I have so many things to write to you, but I would rather not use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to come soon and speak face to face, so our joy can be full.
13The children of your chosen sister greet you, Amen.