2 John 1:1

The elder [ο π ρ ε σ β υ τ ε ρ ο ς]. The word is used originally of seniority in age. So Luke 14:25. Afterward as a term of rank or office. Applied to members of the Sanhedrim (Matthew 16:21; Acts 6:12). Those who presided over the Christian assemblies or churches (Acts 11:30; 1 Timothy 5:17; 1 Timothy 5:19). The twenty - four members of the heavenly court in John's vision (Revelation 4:4; Revelation 4:10; Revelation 5:5; Revelation 5:6; Revelation 5:8; Revelation 5:11; Revelation 5:1; Revelation 5:4). Here, with reference to official position, coupled, presumably, with age.

Unto the elect lady [ε κ λ ε κ τ η κ υ ρ ι α]. An expression which baffles all the commentators. It is supposed by some that the title describes a person, by others, a society. The views of the former class as to the person designated, are

(1.) That the letter was addressed to a certain Babylonian named Electa.

(2.) To a person named Kyria.

(3.) To Electa Kyria, a compound proper name. Those who regard the phrase as describing a society, divide on the question whether a particular Christian society or the whole Church is intended. It is impossible to settle the question satisfactorily.

Children [τ ε κ ν ο ι ς]. May be taken either in a literal or in a spiritual sense. For the later, see 1 Timothy 1:2; Galatians 4:25; 3 John 1:4. Compare also vv. 4, 13. The explanation turns on the meaning of ejklekth kuria. If it mean the Church, children will have the spiritual sense. If it be a proper name, the literal.

Whom [ο υ ς]. Comprehensive, embracing the mother and the children of both sexes.

I love [α γ α π ω]. See on John 5:20.

In the truth (ejn ajlhqeia. Omit the. The expression in truth marks the atmosphere or element of truth in which something is said, or felt, or done. See John 17:17. In truth is equivalent to truly, really. Compare Colossians 1:6; John 17:19.

That have known [ο ι ε γ ν ω κ ο τ ε ς]. Either have come to know, or as Rev., know. The perfect tense of ginwskw, to learn to know, is rendered as a present : I have learned to know, therefore I know. See on 1 John 2:3.