2 John 1:2

Authorized King James Version

For the truth's sake, which dwelleth in us, and shall be with us for ever.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
διὰ
G1223
For
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#2
τὸν
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
ἀλήθειαν
G225
the truth's sake
truth
#4
τὸν
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
μένουσαν
G3306
dwelleth
to stay (in a given place, state, relation or expectancy)
#6
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#7
ἡμῖν
G2254
us
to (or for, with, by) us
#8
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#9
μεθ'
G3326
with
properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)
#10
ἡμῶν
G2257
us
of (or from) us
#11
ἔσται
G2071
shall be
will be
#12
εἰς
G1519
for
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#13
τὸν
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
αἰῶνα
G165
ever
properly, an age; by extension, perpetuity (also past); by implication, the world; specially (jewish) a messianic period (present or future)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing truth contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection