WALKING IN THE TRUTH

PROCLAMATION

“I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from The Father.”  2 John 1:4 (KJV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the Apostle John, under the inspiration of The Holy Spirit of God, to a certain, well known, Christian matron in the church and to her children whom he loved in the truth.  In this, his second letter, John begins by identifying himself as an “elder,” his office in the church, not as an “apostle” of Jesus The Christ.  This is probably because the person to whom he is writing knows him and accepts his authority as one who walked with Christ.  After identifying the recipient and greeting her, (2 John 1:1-3) he expresses his joy in finding out that her children were also walking in the truth.  Then he goes on to explain why he is writing to her.  His first point is to encourage her to walk in love as God has commanded. (2 John 1:5-6)  Then he tells her to watch out for the deceivers who do not acknowledge Jesus, The Christ, and who possess the spirit of the antichrist. (2 John 1:7-9)  John tells her not to welcome those people into her home for that would make her a partaker of their evil wicked work. (2 John 1:9-11)  He ends the letter by apologizing for the briefness of the letter and says that he has much more to tell her, but that he would tell her that when they are face to face. (2 John 1:12)

 

APPLICATION

Walking in the truth is believing, living, and being obedient to The Word of God as God The Father commanded.  While we are not perfect, we still sin.  However, perfection is a goal that is well worth striving for.  We need God’s help in order to walk His way.  Walking in truth (Psalm 86:11), walking in the light (1 John 1:7), walking in faith (2 Corinthians 5:7), and walking in love (Ephesians 5:2) require showing love towards one another and obedience to God’s commands. (John 13:34-35)   This means living a lifestyle which reflects good Christian behavior.  We need to receive it, believe it, embrace it, profess it, live it, and grow in it.  We should also train up our children this way. (Proverbs 22:6)  Our goal is to one day hear Him say, “… Well done, good and faithful servant ...” (Matthew 25:23)