1 John the elder to the elect lady and her children, who I love fellowshipping together with the Father and His Son Jesus Christ, abiding in eternal life, along with all that have known the truth,

 

2 Because of the truth of eternal life abiding in us and with us for all the ages to come.

 

3 And His grace which will be with us always, in all mercy and peace, from God the Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father who keeps us in truth and love.

 

4 I greatly rejoice that I have found your children abiding in the truth of eternal life, which is the decree and the testimony we have received in Christ from the Father.

 

5 And now I urge you also, lady, that you abide in the truth, not as if it is some new commandment to you, but rather the same commandment of eternal life that was from the beginning, so that we love one another in the truth.

 

6 And this is how His love is born in us that we have love one for another, through abiding in His life as He gave command. This eternal life is the only command which you have heard from the beginning, that you should abide therein.

 

7 For there are many deceivers in the world, who say that Jesus Christ did not come as a man, coming out of the grave in immortal flesh, who deny that He is the Word of eternal life to those in dying flesh. This is a deception and opposed to the doctrine of Christ.

 

8 Take heed of this message which stands oppose Christ and do not be lazy with the truth but diligent, so that our labor is not in vain but rather receive the message that has a full reward.

 

9 Whoever denies that the word of eternal life in Christ has conquered death in human flesh, has transgressed the way unto life for all flesh and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ and has not God. He that abides in the doctrine of Christ, has both the Father and the Son abiding in him.

 

10 If anyone comes to your house teaching this doctrine that is opposed to Christ, do not allow it, neither rejoice with him or do anything that would be seen as an endorsement.

 

11 Because whoever allows this message and rejoices with him has been lazy with the truth and taken part in that which only brings corruption and pain to men’s lives.

 

12 I have many things to write to you that I would not write with paper and ink: but I hope to come to you, that we may speak (about this and other things) face to face, and so that our joy may be full.

 

13 The children of your elect sister greet you. Amen.

 

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