The letter of 2 John was written by John, one of Jesus’ disciples, to a Christian community he called “the chosen lady and her children” (2 John 1:1). In this letter, John encourages Christians to love one another and remain faithful to Christ and his doctrine. In 2 John 1:8, he warns, “Be careful not to lose what we have worked for, but that we may receive the full reward.”
This exhortation from John highlights the importance of persevering in the faith and not drifting away from the truth of the Gospel. Christianity is a journey that requires perseverance and faithfulness, for the path is narrow and full of obstacles. It’s easy to get distracted and sidetracked from the truth, especially in a world that is often hostile to Christianity. Therefore, it is important to keep our eyes fixed on Christ and on his word, as Hebrews 12:1-2 teaches us: “Therefore, we also, who are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us leave every embarrassment and the sin that surrounds us so closely, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking firmly to the Author and Finisher of our faith, Jesus”.
Persevering in the faith also means continuing to grow and mature in our Christian journey, and becoming more and more like Christ. Ephesians 4:15-16 tells us, “But following the truth in love, let us grow in every way into Him who is the Head, Christ, from whom the whole body, joined together and held together by every joint holding together, grows the growth of God”.
Therefore, John’s exhortation in 2 John 1:8 is an important reminder for all Christians: we must persevere in the faith, remain faithful to Christ and his word, and continue to grow and mature in our Christian journey. Only then can we receive the full reward that God has in store for those who love and serve Him faithfully.
Aprofunde seus conhecimentos
261. Is Baptism necessary for salvation?
166. Why is the Church called “Catholic”?
595. How is forgiveness possible?
263. What are the effects of Baptism?
90. Did the incarnate Son of God have a soul with human knowledge?
573. Are there objections to prayer?
364. What is the relationship between freedom and responsibility?
Acesse nossos estudos biblicos:
What is the role of spiritual gifts in building up the church, according to Ephesians 4:7-16?
How is God’s justice manifested in the midst of suffering, according to Job 34:10-12?
What is the responsibility of Christian leaders according to James 3:1-12?
How does Job 38:1-11 reveal God’s sovereignty in the midst of suffering?
What is the image of God as shepherd in Ezekiel 34?
How important is Esther’s purpose and mission in Esther 4:14?
