New Testament
2 John 1:6
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This is what love means: that we live according to his commandments. And this is the commandment you've heard from the very beginning — that you should live by it.
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And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it.
What 2 John 1:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Love is more than just a feeling; it’s about how we choose to live our lives. When we follow the teachings and guidelines set before us, we demonstrate our love. This isn’t a new idea; it’s been around since the beginning. Living according to these commandments shows our commitment to love. It’s about making choices that reflect our values and beliefs. By embracing this way of life, we not only honor those teachings but also create a deeper connection with others. Love is an active choice, and it requires us to be intentional in our actions. When we live out this commandment, we embody the essence of love in our daily lives, making it a powerful force for good. This is the heart of what it means to truly love and be loved in return. It’s a journey that shapes who we are and how we relate to the world around us. In essence, love is a commitment to live by these principles every day, guiding our interactions and decisions with care and respect for others. It’s a beautiful way to live.
How to apply 2 John 1:6 to your life
To apply this teaching, reflect on how your daily choices align with your values. Consider ways to actively show love through your actions. This could mean being kind, helping others, or making ethical decisions. Remember, love is not just a feeling; it’s a way of living. Make it a priority in your life every day. It can transform your relationships and community for the better. Embrace this challenge wholeheartedly and see the impact it has.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 John Summary · 2 John 1:6 Meaning
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Plain Meaning
The verse defines love and then defines the commandment. Love is not just a feeling — it is walking after God's commandments, meaning living by them. Then it turns around: the commandment itself is to walk in love. The two ideas hold each other up. Love leads to keeping the commandments, and the commandment tells you to walk in love. This is not a new idea; the readers heard it from the beginning.
Read It in Context
In verse 5, the writer asked the readers to love one another, calling it a commandment they had from the beginning. Verse 6 follows directly from that, explaining what love actually looks like in practice.
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At a Glance — the Book of 2 John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- A specific Christian community
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 John 1:6 mean?
2 John 1:6 emphasizes that true love is demonstrated through our actions and choices, specifically by living according to God's commandments. It highlights that love is not just a feeling but a commitment to follow the teachings that have been established from the beginning.
What is the meaning of love in 2 John 1:6?
In 2 John 1:6, love is defined as actively living in accordance with God's commandments. This means that love involves making intentional choices that reflect our values and beliefs, rather than merely expressing emotions.
How can I apply 2 John 1:6 in my life?
To apply 2 John 1:6, focus on aligning your daily actions with your values and the teachings you believe in. Look for opportunities to show love through kindness, support, and ethical choices in your interactions with others.
What are the commandments mentioned in 2 John 1:6?
The commandments referred to in 2 John 1:6 are the teachings of Jesus and the moral guidelines found in the Bible. These commandments encourage believers to live a life of love, integrity, and respect for others.
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