The Little Letters - Day 22

1 This letter is from John, the elder.
I am writing to the chosen lady and to her children, whom I love in the truth—as does everyone else who knows the truth— 2 because the truth lives in us and will be with us forever.
3 Grace, mercy, and peace, which come from God the Father and from Jesus Christ—the Son of the Father—will continue to be with us who live in truth and love.

This letter comes from the “elder.” That sounds a little spooky, almost. But it is not only a term of station, it speaks to the wisdom and knowledge that is about to be transferred to those who are reading this epistle. In its basic use “elder” simply means “an old or aged man.” But in the context of the Christian community, the world has taken on the meaning of one who possess authority and leadership by virtue of his character, integrity, and moral standing. An “elder” was a man whose life was exemplary and could be used as an example, worthy of the church’s imitation. Because this was John, he didn’t need to exert his apostleship, as he was the last apostle living.
 
The epistle then calls out a woman and her children that he is writing to. However, this is a pretty highly contested section. There are those who think this was to a particular lady and her kids, others who think it is to the church (Local), and then those who think it is to the church (Universal). It seems that the majority of scholars, particularly more recent ones, seem to think it is a reference to the local church and its members.

Regardless of who you think this epistle is written for, the meaning remains unchanged. What the author would expect in belief and behavior would be the same to expect from a local church or the world church.
 
Two keywords seem to drive the early part of this letter: Love (Agape) and Truth (Aletheia). John wishes to make an intimate connection with his readers, considering the circumstances that have prompted the need for this letter. Even though the letter contains some hard sayings, it is still a letter of love from God, through his apostle, to his people.

Hard truths given in love are a dicey sort of thing. I don’t know if you have had to deliver hard truth, or if you have been the recipient, but it is always difficult to give and to receive. Sometimes, we say we are giving those hard truths in love, but we give them with a harsh word as well. We must learn not only what love is, but what love sounds like in our mouths and in our hearts. If we begin with the love that comes from Christ, that will always be a good place to begin.

1. Have you ever had to give a hard word? 
2. How did it go? 
3. Have you had to receive a hard word in love? 
4. How can you make sure that the “hard words” are covered in love?