2 John 1:4

Authorized King James Version

I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Ἐχάρην
G5463
I rejoiced
to be "cheer"ful, i.e., calmly happy or well-off; impersonally, especially as salutation (on meeting or parting), be well
#2
λίαν
G3029
greatly
much (adverbially)
#3
ὅτι
G3754
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#4
εὕρηκα
G2147
I found
to find (literally or figuratively)
#5
ἐκ
G1537
of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#6
τῶν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
τέκνων
G5043
children
a child (as produced)
#8
σου
G4675
thy
of thee, thy
#9
περιπατοῦντας
G4043
walking
to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)
#10
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#11
ἀληθείᾳ
G225
truth
truth
#12
καθὼς
G2531
as
just (or inasmuch) as, that
#13
ἐντολὴν
G1785
a commandment
injunction, i.e., an authoritative prescription
#14
ἐλάβομεν
G2983
we have received
while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))
#15
παρὰ
G3844
from
properly, near; i.e., (with genitive case) from beside (literally or figuratively), (with dative case) at (or in) the vicinity of (objectively or subj
#16
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
πατρός
G3962
the Father
a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 John. The concept of truth reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood truth. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection