What does 2 John 1:11 mean?

Explanation

The verse 2 John 1:11, "For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds," cautions against offering support or endorsement to those who promulgate false teachings or live in a manner contrary to Christian doctrine.

The term "God speed" is an old English expression that means "goodbye" or "farewell" but carries the connotation of "bless you" or "may God be with you." In this context, the verse is warning the believer not to wish well or extend hospitality to those who are false teachers, as to do so would be to share in their wicked works.

Historical Context

The Second Epistle of John was written circa 90-95 A.D., and its primary focus is on the truth of the gospel and the necessity of walking in love.

During this time, the early church was contending with the infiltration of false doctrines, including early forms of Gnosticism and other heretical teachings that denied core Christian beliefs, such as the incarnation of Christ.

The epistle is written to a Christ-believing community known as "the elect lady and her children," which is likely a metaphor for a local church congregation.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, 2 John 1:11 can be examined in light of the Christian concept of fellowship and accountability.

Mainstream Christian interpretations stress the importance of doctrinal purity and moral integrity within the community.

By admonishing against offering support to false teachers, the epistle reinforces the idea that Christians should guard against endorsing anything that could lead people away from the true teachings of Christ as defined by orthodox Christianity.

Some denominations may interpret this verse more broadly, to discourage association with any individuals or groups they consider heretical or immoral.

Practical Applications

In everyday life, 2 John 1:11 can be seen as a guideline for discernment and integrity.

It can be applied by encouraging individuals to be careful about the endorsements they make, ensuring they do not inadvertently support activities or messages that are in conflict with their values or beliefs.

This can extend to not just personal relationships but also to organizational affiliations, social media interactions, and public endorsements.

Cross-References

• Romans 16:17-18: "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them."

• 1 Corinthians 5:11: "But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat."

• Ephesians 5:11: "And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them."

• 2 Thessalonians 3:6: "Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us."

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of this verse include:

• "Biddeth": Ἀσπάζομαι (aspazomai), which means to greet or to welcome.
• "God speed": Χαίρειν (charein), which could be translated as "rejoice" or "be glad," but in the context of a greeting, it means "farewell" or "God be with you."
• "Partaker": Κοινωνός (koinonos), which means a sharer, partner, or participant.
• "Evil deeds": Πονηρά (ponēra), this is an adjective meaning wicked or malicious, often referring to actions that are inherently bad or harmful.

These words highlight the seriousness of the act of greeting someone in that culture, implying agreement or association with the person's actions or beliefs.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures, including the Near Eastern societies around the time of the early church, hospitality and greeting were considered serious matters, often implying acceptance or alliance.

The early Christians were keenly aware of how these social customs could impact their community's reputation and the spread of their message. 2 John 1:11 is unique in how it instructs followers of a religion to be cautious with such social norms in relation to theological purity, a principle less emphasized in other religious and mythological texts of the time.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the concepts in 2 John 1:11 do not directly intersect with scientific understandings, as they deal with social and ethical behavior rather than empirical claims about the natural world.

However, the underlying principles of association and influence have been studied in social psychology, which recognizes the impact of social connections on personal beliefs and actions.

This verse essentially warns against the social reinforcement of harmful ideas, a concept that is supported by studies on group dynamics and conformity.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars have offered various interpretations of 2 John 1:11.

Some frame this passage strictly within its historical context, addressing the specific problem of itinerant false teachers in the early church.

Others use this verse to discuss broader theological principles about the nature of Christian fellowship and the boundaries that need to be maintained with those who actively oppose fundamental Christian doctrines.

Most commentaries agree on the importance of discernment in relationships and caution against any actions that could be seen as endorsing or aiding those who propagate falsehoods within Christian contexts.