2 John 1:13 (KJV)

What does 2 John 1:13 mean?

2 John 1:13 is a closing greeting in which the writer says that the children of the recipient’s “elect sister” send their greetings. This is a personal note, showing a connection between the letter’s recipient and another respected woman and her family.

The writer, traditionally understood as John, is finishing his short letter to a chosen Christian woman (“the elect lady”) by passing along greetings from the children of her “elect sister.” This likely refers to another Christian woman and her family, either literal relatives or fellow believers. The verse highlights the close-knit relationships among early Christians and their habit of sending greetings to show unity and care.

The Greek behind 2 John 1:13

• “children” (τέκνα, tekna): This word means children or descendants. Here, it refers to the children of the “elect sister,” emphasizing family or close community ties.
• “elect” (ἐκλεκτός, eklektos): This word means chosen or selected. Calling the sister “elect” shows she is respected and considered part of God’s chosen people.
• “sister” (ἀδελφή, adelphē): This can mean a literal sister or a fellow believer. In this context, it could mean either a blood relative or another Christian woman.
• “greet” (ἀσπάζομαι, aspazomai): This means to greet or salute. It shows the custom of sending warm regards, a sign of friendship and fellowship.
• “Amen” (ἀμήν, amēn): This is a word of affirmation, meaning “truly” or “so be it,” used to close the letter with a sense of sincerity.

Why 2 John 1:13 matters

• 2 John 1:13 shows the importance of relationships and greetings in early Christian communities, reminding readers that faith was lived out in real, personal connections.
• The verse helps clarify that “elect” was a term of respect and belonging, not just a theological label, and was used for both men and women in the early church.
• This closing greeting ties the letter together, showing that the concerns and encouragements given are shared by a wider circle, not just the writer alone.