2 John 1:11 (KJV)

What does 2 John 1:11 mean?

2 John 1:11 says that anyone who wishes a false teacher well or encourages them is sharing in the harm they do. The verse warns that even showing support to someone spreading wrong teaching makes a person responsible for those actions.

The writer, traditionally understood as John, is warning a Christian community about traveling teachers who do not hold to the true message about Jesus. In the context, John is urging his readers not to help or encourage those who are spreading teachings that go against what the community believes, because doing so would make them complicit in spreading those harmful ideas.

The Greek behind 2 John 1:11

• "biddeth" (λέγει, legei): This Greek word means "to say" or "to speak." Here, it refers to someone greeting or wishing well to a false teacher, not just casual words but a form of endorsement or approval.
• "speed" (χαίρειν, chairein): This word means "to rejoice" or "to be glad," but in this context, it was a common greeting meaning "greetings" or "good wishes." The verse warns that even a simple greeting of goodwill can be seen as supporting the person's work.
• "partaker" (κοινωνεῖ, koinōnei): This word means "to share in" or "to participate with." The verse uses it to show that offering support, even indirectly, makes a person share in the wrong actions of the false teacher.
• "evil" (πονηροῖς, ponērois): This word means "evil" or "bad." It highlights that the deeds in question are not just mistaken but are considered harmful or morally wrong.

Why 2 John 1:11 matters

• 2 John 1:11 clarifies that supporting someone who spreads harmful or false teachings is not a neutral act; it carries moral weight and responsibility.
• The verse emphasizes the seriousness with which the early Christian community viewed the spread of wrong teaching, showing that even small acts of encouragement could have larger consequences.
• This warning connects to the rest of the letter, which urges discernment and care in relationships within the community, especially regarding those who might lead others astray.