5. It has three parts: I. A Preface (2 John 1-3). II. The Discussion, that is, congratulations concerning the acknowledgment of the truth, and an exhortation to constancy (2 John 4-11). III. An Epilogue (2 John 12, 13). Interpreters of the Epistle, Ancient, Reformed, Lutheran, Roman Catholic; and also a Synoptic Table.
The Epistle has three parts: first, a Preface (2 John 1-3); second, the discussion, that is, congratulations concerning the acknowledgement of the truth, and an exhortation to constancy (2 John 4-11); third, an Epilogue (2 John 12, 13).
I. The Preface of the Epistle, verses 1-3.
The elder, for the elect Lady and her children, especially beloved on account of the acknowledgement of the truth (verses 1, 2), gives thanks to God (verse 3): verses 1-3.
II. The discussion, that is, congratulations concerning the acknowledgement of the truth, and an exhortation to constancy, verses 4-11.
He rejoices over the children walking in the truth, according to the precept, not new, but old, commanding love (verses 5, 6), warning them to beward of seducers, not confessing Jesus Christ to have come in the flesh (verses 7, 8), and against all transgressors pronouncing that they know not God (verse 9), and instructing that they speak not greetings to those bringing another doctrine (verses 10-11): verses 4-11.
III. An Epilogue, verses 12, 13.
Promising his coming (verse 12), he greets the children of her elect sister (verse 13): verses 12, 13.