Love in Truth

27th MARCH 2023

Christ for Youth International

The elder to the elect lady and her children, whom I love in truth, and not only I, but also all who know the truth, because of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever: [2 John 1:1–2 ESV]

“… whom I love in truth, and not only I, but also all who know the truth, because of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever.” What does it mean to love in truth? Which truth abides in us and will be with us forever? How is John able to say that everyone who knows the truth loves the elect lady and her children in truth, just as he does? As Jesus' followers, we are to love in truth [more so, the people of the household of faith]. Our love should not be based on our own feelings or preferences, but on the truth of God’s integrity; His word.

Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. Matthew 24:35 ESV

In John 17:17, we read these words as Jesus prays, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth” [ESV]. We see that the word of God is the source of truth. If we want to know the truth, we must turn to God’s word. As we read and study the Bible, we come to know the truth of who God is and what he has done for us. We come to understand the truth of our own sinfulness and our need for a saviour. And we come to know the truth of God’s love and grace towards us.

When we know the truth, it transforms the way we see ourselves and others. We no longer see ourselves as better than others or as more deserving of love. This allows us to approach others with humility and compassion, recognising that we are all in need of God’s love and forgiveness. We no longer see others as objects to be used for our own purposes or as enemies to be defeated. Instead, we see others as fellow image-bearers of God, deserving of love and respect. This allows us to love others even when it is difficult because we recognise their inherent value and worth.

The truth of God’s word is not just important for our personal relationship with him, but it also impacts our relationships with others. When we know the truth, it transforms the way we love others. We are able to love them with a love that is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional because we know the truth of God’s love for us.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the truth of Your word. Help us to prioritise our time in Your word, allowing it to transform our hearts and minds. Give us the strength and courage to love others, even when it is difficult or uncomfortable. And help us to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit to transform us and enable us to love as You love. We pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Further Reading: 1 Peter 1:22–23

Bible In One Year: 2 Samuel [10–13]

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