What does 2 John 1:5 mean?

And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another. 2 John 1:5

Explanation

The verse 2 John 1:5 is part of the short New Testament book of 2 John, which is a letter believed to be written by John the Apostle. The letter is addressed to the “elect lady and her children,” which may be a reference to a particular woman and her family or a metaphor for a local church and its members. In this verse, the author is imploring the recipient(s) to abide by a key tenet of Christian teaching: to love one another. This commandment to love is not presented as something new but rather as an essential message that has been part of Christian doctrine from the beginning. It reinforces the continuity and unchanging nature of the message of love in the Christian faith.

Historical Context

2 John is a brief epistle that is thought to have been written in the latter part of the 1st century AD, around 90-95 AD. During this time, the early Christian community was dealing with doctrinal disputes and false teachings. The author aims to encourage Christians to remain steadfast in the truth and love that they have received since the inception of their faith. The reiteration of the commandment to love one another reaffirms the early Christian values and emphasizes the importance of this principle amidst the challenges of the time.

Theological Insights

Theologically, the commandment to love one another echoes Jesus’ teachings, such as what is found in the Gospel of John (John 13:34-35), where Jesus gives a new commandment to love one another as He has loved. Theologians point out that this love is agape love, a selfless, sacrificial, unconditional love, which is central to Christian ethics. From an evangelical perspective, the verse underlines the moral imperative for believers to demonstrate love in all interactions. In more liberal theological circles, the emphasis might be on the inclusive nature of this love, extending beyond the community of believers to all people.

Practical Applications

The instruction “that we love one another” has direct implications for how individuals should conduct themselves in their daily lives. It suggests that Christian behavior should be characterized by caring, selflessness, and putting the welfare of others first. Practically, this might mean providing support to those in need, forgiving others, working toward reconciliation in strained relationships, or engaging in acts of kindness without seeking personal gain.

Cross-References

• John 13:34-35: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”
• 1 John 3:11: “For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.”
• 1 John 4:7: “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.”

Language Study

The key term in this verse is “love” which translates from the Greek word “agapao” (ἀγαπᾶν). This term is distinguished from other types of love, such as brotherly love (phileo) or romantic love (eros), and denotes a deep, abiding, self-sacrificing affection that is the hallmark of Christian interpersonal relationships. This love is action-oriented and calls for a proactive approach to caring for one another.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

“Love one another” as a commandment is particularly central to Christianity but finds parallels in other religious traditions. In Judaism, the concept of “love your neighbor as yourself” is central to the Torah (see Leviticus 19:18). In Buddhism, the concept of mettā (loving-kindness) bears some similarities. These comparisons reflect the universal value of compassion and selflessness across different cultures and religions, even though each tradition may understand and practice it differently.

Scientific Perspectives

The concept of love from a scientific perspective can be examined through psychological and sociological lenses. Psychological research often explores the effects of love and altruism on mental and physical health, suggesting that loving actions can lead to increased happiness, reduced stress, and better overall well-being for both the giver and receiver. Sociologically, the emphasis on loving actions can be seen to contribute to social cohesion and community building. However, from a purely scientific viewpoint, the directive to “love one another” is not just a spiritual or ethical imperative; it’s also seen as beneficial for human development and social harmony.

Commentaries

Bible scholars and commentators have elaborated on 2 John 1:5 through various perspectives. Some regard the admonition to love as a safeguard against false teachings, as love requires truth and cannot coexist with deception. Others focus on the direct linkage between love and keeping God’s commandments, as mentioned in other parts of the New Testament. Commentators from the historical-critical school might explore how this verse fits within the Johannine community’s specific situation and challenges. In general, there is a consensus that 2 John 1:5 is a call for believers to live out a foundational aspect of their faith in practical, visible ways.