2 John 1:9

Anyone who runs ahead without remaining in the teaching of Christ does not have God. Whoever remains in His teaching has both the Father and the Son.

Study Bible

Anyone who runs ahead without remaining in the teaching of Christ
This phrase warns against moving beyond the foundational teachings of Jesus Christ. In the early church, false teachers often introduced new doctrines that deviated from the apostolic teachings. The phrase "runs ahead" suggests a departure from the established truth, similar to the warnings in Galatians 1:6-9 about turning to a different gospel. The teaching of Christ refers to the core doctrines delivered by Jesus and His apostles, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the original message. This reflects the cultural context of the time, where Gnosticism and other heresies were emerging, challenging the early church's beliefs.

does not have God
This part underscores the seriousness of deviating from Christ's teachings. In the Johannine context, having God is synonymous with having a relationship with Him, as seen in 1 John 2:23, which states that denying the Son means not having the Father. The phrase implies that true fellowship with God is contingent upon remaining faithful to the teachings of Christ. This aligns with the broader biblical theme that obedience and adherence to God's word are essential for a genuine relationship with Him, as seen throughout the Old and New Testaments.

Whoever remains in His teaching
Remaining in His teaching implies a steadfast commitment to the doctrines and instructions given by Jesus. This echoes John 15:4-7, where Jesus speaks about abiding in Him as a branch abides in the vine. The concept of remaining or abiding is central to Johannine theology, emphasizing a continuous, active relationship with Christ. Historically, this was crucial for the early church as it faced external pressures and internal divisions, necessitating a firm grounding in apostolic teaching.

has both the Father and the Son
This phrase highlights the unity and relationship between the Father and the Son, a central tenet of Christian doctrine. It affirms that accepting and adhering to the teachings of Christ ensures a relationship with both the Father and the Son, as seen in John 14:23, where Jesus promises that those who love Him and keep His word will be loved by the Father, and both will make their home with them. This reflects the Trinitarian understanding of God, where the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct yet one, a mystery that is foundational to Christian belief.

Persons / Places / Events

1. John the Apostle
The author of this epistle, John was one of Jesus' closest disciples and is traditionally understood to be the "beloved disciple." He wrote this letter to warn against false teachings and to encourage adherence to the true doctrine of Christ.

2. The Elect Lady and Her Children
The recipients of the letter, possibly a specific woman and her family or a metaphorical reference to a local church and its members.

3. False Teachers
Individuals who were spreading teachings contrary to the doctrine of Christ, likely Gnostic influences that denied the incarnation of Jesus.

4. The Teaching of Christ
Refers to the core doctrines and teachings that Jesus imparted, which are foundational to Christian faith.

5. God the Father and God the Son
Central figures in Christian theology, emphasizing the relationship and unity between the Father and the Son, which is essential to the Christian faith.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Sound Doctrine
Remaining in the teaching of Christ is crucial for maintaining a true relationship with God. Sound doctrine acts as a safeguard against deception and false teachings.

The Danger of Innovation in Doctrine
"Running ahead" suggests moving beyond or outside the established teachings of Christ. This can lead to spiritual peril and separation from God.

Unity of the Father and the Son
Understanding and accepting the unity between the Father and the Son is essential for a complete and authentic Christian faith.

Vigilance Against False Teachings
Christians must be discerning and vigilant, testing all teachings against the truth of Scripture to ensure they align with the teachings of Christ.

Abiding in Christ
A continuous, active relationship with Christ through His teachings is necessary for spiritual growth and assurance of salvation.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to "run ahead" of the teaching of Christ, and how can we guard against this in our own lives?

2. How does remaining in the teaching of Christ ensure that we have both the Father and the Son?

3. In what ways can we identify and respond to false teachings in our current cultural context?

4. How does the unity of the Father and the Son impact our understanding of the Christian faith and our relationship with God?

5. Reflect on a time when adhering to sound doctrine helped you navigate a challenging situation. How can this experience encourage others in their faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 15:4-7
This passage emphasizes the importance of abiding in Christ, similar to how 2 John 1:9 stresses remaining in the teaching of Christ.

1 John 2:23
This verse highlights the relationship between acknowledging the Son and having the Father, reinforcing the idea that one cannot have God without adhering to the teachings of Christ.

Galatians 1:6-9
Paul warns against turning to a different gospel, which parallels John's warning against running ahead without remaining in Christ's teaching.