As we continue our study of 2 John, we pick up at verse 3. The Apostle John was writing to someone very close to him, and of course to each of us as the Holy Spirit gave him these words:
“Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.” 2 John, 3
John was concerned about us walking in truth and love, and was saying here that when we do, wonderful things come to us. Here is truth:
Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, (John 14:6) and when we walk in Him, we walk in Grace. Grace is God’s unmerited favor given unto us because of His unconditional love. We take this gift lightly many times, because we forget the price that was paid for it. Christ gave His life, His Blood, for it, because that is what it took. He became the ultimate one time sacrifice for all mankind. (Hebrews 10:14), and by His grace made perfect forever those who are being made holy. He went into the depths of hell for us, (Ephesians 4: 8,9) set the captives free there, and led them to a heavenly place. These souls had died under the law of sin and death, but it was grace that set them free. We who live now labor under the law of sin and death, but it is grace that sets us free to live in the kingdom of God here on earth.
And why did God do this for us? It was mercy. Webster defines mercy as “kind and compassionate treatment, a disposition to forgive or be kind, the power to forgive, etc.” Our Heavenly Father chooses to forgive us, and to show kindness to us. It is ours to receive or refuse. We receive mercy when we receive Christ Jesus into our heart, and walk with Him in this life.
And why did our Father God allow Jesus to bring grace, and mercy to us? It was for peace. God is Love, and loves us more than we can express. He wants us with Him – now and forever. He wants His family to be at peace in that love. The Word says of Christ: ” For God was pleased to have all of His fullness dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether things on earth, or things in heaven, by making peace through His blood shed on the cross. Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now He has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in His sight without blemish and free from accusation.” (Colossians 1: 19-22)
Purpose to walk in truth and love, God’s Beloveds. That is giving your self to Christ each day in mind, and spirit, and body. He is Grace, Peace, and Mercy. Be blessed in these things.
Poppa B.