Albert Barnes' Bible Commentary
2 John 1 - Introduction
The points embraced in this Epistle are these: A salutation to the female to whom it is addressed, and an expression of warm attachment to her family, 2 John 1:1. An expression of joy and gratitude that he had been permitted to learn that her children had embraced the truth, and were walking in it, 2 John 1:4. An exhortation to live in the exercise of mutual love, in obedience to the great commandment of the Saviour, 2 John 1:5. The fact that many deceivers had gone out into the world, and an exhortation to be on their guard against their arts, 2 John 1:7. A test by which they might be known, and their true character ascertained, 2 John 1:9. An exhortation to show them no countenance whatever; not to treat them in any such way, even in the rites of hospitality, as to give occasion to the charge that she was friendly to their doctrines, 2 John 1:10. A statement that, as he hoped to see her soon, he would not write more to her, 2 John 1:12. And the salutation of the children of someone who is spoken of as her elect sister, 2 John 1:13.