2 John 1:3 (KJV)

What does 2 John 1:3 mean?

2 John 1:3 is a greeting where the writer wishes grace, mercy, and peace to the recipients, saying these blessings come from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, who is called the Son of the Father, and that these gifts are given in truth and love. The verse highlights both the source of these blessings and the qualities—truth and love—that shape the Christian community.

The writer is traditionally understood to be the apostle John, addressing a group of believers (sometimes called “the elect lady and her children”). This greeting sets the tone for the letter, emphasizing that the kindness and peace Christians experience come from both God the Father and Jesus Christ. The mention of “truth and love” points to the values that are central to the rest of the letter and to Christian life.

The Greek behind 2 John 1:3

• χάρις (charis, G5485): This word is often translated as “grace,” meaning undeserved favor or kindness. In this context, it signals the writer’s wish for God’s generous goodwill to be with the readers.
• ἔλεος (eleos, G1656): Translated as “mercy,” this word carries the idea of compassion or pity, especially for those in need or distress. The greeting asks for God’s compassionate care.
• εἰρήνη (eirēnē, G1515): This is the Greek word for “peace,” which means more than just the absence of conflict—it suggests wholeness, well-being, and harmony that comes from God.
• ἀλήθεια (alētheia, G225) and ἀγάπη (agapē, G26): “Truth” and “love” are paired here, showing that the blessings from God are not random but are grounded in what is real and in genuine care for others.

Why 2 John 1:3 matters

• 2 John 1:3 clarifies that grace, mercy, and peace are not just general wishes but are specifically said to come from both God the Father and Jesus Christ, highlighting their unity and importance in Christian belief.
• The verse stresses that these blessings are experienced “in truth and love,” showing that Christian life is meant to be shaped by honesty and self-giving care, not just by correct beliefs or feelings.
• This greeting prepares the reader for the rest of the letter, which will go on to talk about living out truth and love in practical ways, especially in the face of false teaching.