2 John 1:12

Authorized King James Version

Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Πολλὰ
G4183
many things
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
#2
ἔχων
G2192
Having
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#3
ὑμῖν
G5213
unto you
to (with or by) you
#4
γράφειν
G1125
to write
to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe
#5
οὐκ
G3756
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#6
ἠβουλήθην
G1014
I would
to "will," i.e., (reflexively) be willing
#7
διὰ
G1223
write with
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#8
χάρτου
G5489
paper
a sheet ("chart") of writing-material (as to be scribbled over)
#9
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
μέλανος
G3188
ink
ink
#11
ἀλλὰ
G235
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#12
ἐλπίζω
G1679
I trust
to expect or confide
#13
ἐλθεῖν
G2064
to come
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#14
πρὸς
G4314
to
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
#15
ὑμᾶς
G5209
you
you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)
#16
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#17
στόμα
G4750
face
the mouth (as if a gash in the face); by implication, language (and its relations); figuratively, an opening (in the earth); specially, the front or e
#18
πρὸς
G4314
to
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
#19
στόμα
G4750
face
the mouth (as if a gash in the face); by implication, language (and its relations); figuratively, an opening (in the earth); specially, the front or e
#20
λαλῆσαι
G2980
speak
to talk, i.e., utter words
#21
ἵνα
G2443
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#22
ἡ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#23
χαρὰ
G5479
joy
cheerfulness, i.e., calm delight
#24
ἡμῶν
G2257
our
of (or from) us
#25
ᾖ
G5600
may be
(may, might, can, could, would, should, must, etc.; also with g1487 and its comparative, as well as with other particles) be
#26
πεπληρωμένη
G4137
full
to make replete, i.e., (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 John, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to 2 John's theological argument.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 2 John Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection