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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>2 John 1:12 I have many things to write to you, but I would prefer not to do so with paper and ink. Instead, I hope to come and speak with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_john/1-12.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/5/63_2Jn_01_12.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 John 1:12 - Final Greetings" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="I have many things to write to you, but I would prefer not to do so with paper and ink. 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Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete. <a href="/nlt/2_john/1.htm">New Living Translation</a> I have much more to say to you, but I don’t want to do it with paper and ink. For I hope to visit you soon and talk with you face to face. Then our joy will be complete. <a href="/esv/2_john/1.htm">English Standard Version</a> Though I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink. Instead I hope to come to you and talk face to face, so that our joy may be complete. <a href="/bsb/2_john/1.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> I have many things to write to you, but I would prefer not to do so with paper and ink. Instead, I hope to come and speak with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete. <a href="/blb/2_john/1.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Having many things to write to you, I purposed not with paper and ink, but I hope to come to you and to speak mouth to mouth, so that our joy may be having been completed. <a href="/kjv/2_john/1.htm">King James Bible</a> 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. <a href="/nkjv/2_john/1.htm">New King James Version</a> Having many things to write to you, I did not wish to do so with paper and ink; but I hope to come to you and speak face to face, that our joy may be full. <a href="/nasb_/2_john/1.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Though I have many things to write to you, I do not want to do so with paper and ink; but I hope to come to you and speak face to face, so that your joy may be made complete. <a href="/nasb/2_john/1.htm">NASB 1995</a> Though I have many things to write to you, I do not want to do so with paper and ink; but I hope to come to you and speak face to face, so that your joy may be made full. <a href="/nasb77/2_john/1.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Having many things to write to you, I do not want to do so with paper and ink; but I hope to come to you and speak face to face, that your joy may be made full. <a href="/lsb/2_john/1.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Though I have many things to write to you, I do not want to do so with paper and ink; but I hope to come to you and speak face to face, so that your joy may be made complete. <a href="/amp/2_john/1.htm">Amplified Bible</a> I have many things to write to you, but I prefer not to do so with paper (papyrus) and black (ink); but I hope to come to you and speak with you face to face, so that your joy may be complete. <a href="/csb/2_john/1.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Though I have many things to write to you, I don’t want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to come to you and talk face to face so that our joy may be complete. <a href="/hcsb/2_john/1.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Though I have many things to write to you, I don&#8217t want to do so with paper and ink. Instead, I hope to be with you and talk face to face so that our joy may be complete. <a href="/asv/2_john/1.htm">American Standard Version</a> Having many things to write unto you, I would not write them with paper and ink: but I hope to come unto you, and to speak face to face, that your joy may be made full. <a href="/cev/2_john/1.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> I have much more to tell you, but I don't want to write it with pen and ink. I want to come and talk to you in person, because this will make us really happy. <a href="/erv/2_john/1.htm">English Revised Version</a> Having many things to write unto you, I would not write them with paper and ink: but I hope to come unto you, and to speak face to face, that your joy may be fulfilled. <a href="/gwt/2_john/1.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> I have a lot to write to you. I would prefer not to write a letter. Instead, I hope to visit and talk things over with you personally. Then we will be completely filled with joy. <a href="/gnt/2_john/1.htm">Good News Translation</a> I have so much to tell you, but I would rather not do it with paper and ink; instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you personally, so that we shall be completely happy. <a href="/isv/2_john/1.htm">International Standard Version</a> Although I have a great deal to write to you, I would prefer not to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to come to you and talk face to face, so that our joy may be complete. <a href="/msb/2_john/1.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> I have many things to write to you, but I would prefer not to do so with paper and ink. Instead, I hope to come and speak with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete. <a href="/net/2_john/1.htm">NET Bible</a> Though I have many other things to write to you, I do not want to do so with paper and ink, but I hope to come visit you and speak face to face, so that our joy may be complete. <a href="/nheb/2_john/1.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Having many things to write to you, I do not want to do so with paper and ink, but I hope to come to you, and to speak face to face, that our joy may be made full. <a href="/wbt/2_john/1.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Having many things to write to you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come to you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full. <a href="/wey/2_john/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> I have a great deal to say to you all, but will not write it with paper and ink. Yet I hope to come to see you and speak face to face, so that your happiness may be complete. <a href="/web/2_john/1.htm">World English Bible</a> Having many things to write to you, I don’t want to do so with paper and ink, but I hope to come to you and to speak face to face, that our joy may be made full. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_john/1.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> Having many things to write to you, I did not intend [it] with paper and ink, but I hope to come to you, and speak mouth to mouth, that our joy may be full. <a href="/blb/2_john/1.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Having many things to write to you, I purposed not with paper and ink, but I hope to come to you and to speak mouth to mouth, so that our joy may be having been completed. <a href="/ylt/2_john/1.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> Many things having to write to you, I did not intend through paper and ink, but I hope to come unto you, and speak mouth to mouth, that our joy may be full; <a href="/slt/2_john/1.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Having many things to write to you, I was not willing by paper and ink: but I hope to come to you, and to speak mouth to month, that our joy might be filled up.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_john/1.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Having more things to write unto you, I would not by paper and ink: for I hope that I shall be with you, and speak face to face: that your joy may be full. <a href="/cpdv/2_john/1.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> I have much more to write to you, but I am not willing to do so through paper and ink. For I hope that I may be with you in the future, and that I may speak face to face, so that your joy may be full. <a href="/nabre/2_john/1.htm">New American Bible</a> Although I have much to write to you, I do not intend to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and to speak face to face so that our joy may be complete. <a href="/nrsvce/2_john/1.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Although I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink; instead I hope to come to you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_john/1.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> I have many things to say to you, which I do not want to write with paper and ink: but I trust to come to you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_john/1.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> As I had much to write to you, I did not want to speak with parchment and ink, but I hope to come to you and we shall speak face-to-face, that our joy may be complete.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/2_john/1.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Though I have many things to write to you, I determined not to communicate them by means of paper and ink: for I hope to come to you, and to speak mouth to mouth, that our joy may be full. <a href="/godbey/2_john/1.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> Having many things to write to you, I would not write them with paper and ink: but I hope to come to you, and mouth to mouth to speak to you, in order that our joy may be full. <a href="/haweis/2_john/1.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Having many things to write unto you, I would not do it with paper and ink; but I hope to come unto you, and speak mouth to mouth, that our joy may be complete.<CM> <a href="/mace/2_john/1.htm">Mace New Testament</a> I had many things to write to you, but I don't think it proper to commit them to paper and ink, because I hope to make you a visit, and deliver them by word of mouth; that so our joy may be compleat. <a href="/wey/2_john/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> I have a great deal to say to you all, but will not write it with paper and ink. Yet I hope to come to see you and speak face to face, so that your happiness may be complete. <a href="/worrell/2_john/1.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> Having many things to write to you, I was not willing to write them with paper and ink; but I hope to come to you, and speak mouth to mouth, that your joy may be made full. <a href="/worsley/2_john/1.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> Having many things to write unto you, I would not with paper and ink: but I hope to come unto you, and speak mouth to mouth, that our joy may be full. <a href="/parallel/2_john/1-12.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YJJMjf4VhqI?start=108" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/2_john/1.htm">Final Greetings</a> 11Whoever greets such a person shares in his evil deeds. 12<a href="/greek/2192.htm" title="2192: echōn (V-PPA-NMS) -- To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.">I have</a> <a href="/greek/4183.htm" title="4183: Polla (Adj-ANP) -- Much, many; often. ">many things</a> <a href="/greek/1125.htm" title="1125: graphein (V-PNA) -- A primary verb; to grave, especially to write; figuratively, to describe.">to write</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymin (PPro-D2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">to you,</a> <a href="/greek/1014.htm" title="1014: eboulēthēn (V-AIP-1S) -- To will, intend, desire, wish. Middle voice of a primary verb; to will, i.e. be willing.">but I would prefer</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">not to do so</a> <a href="/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: dia (Prep) -- A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.">with</a> <a href="/greek/5489.htm" title="5489: chartou (N-GMS) -- Papyrus, paper. From the same as charax; a sheet of writing-material.">paper</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/3188.htm" title="3188: melanos (N-GNS) -- Ink. Neuter of melas as noun; ink.">ink.</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">Instead,</a> <a href="/greek/1679.htm" title="1679: elpizō (V-PIA-1S) -- To hope, hope for, expect, trust. From elpis; to expect or confide.">I hope</a> <a href="/greek/1096.htm" title="1096: genesthai (V-ANM) -- A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude.">to come</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/2980.htm" title="2980: lalēsai (V-ANA) -- A prolonged form of an otherwise obsolete verb; to talk, i.e. Utter words.">speak</a> <a href="/greek/4314.htm" title="4314: pros (Prep) -- To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward.">with</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymas (PPro-A2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">you</a> <a href="/greek/4750.htm" title="4750: stoma (N-ANS) -- The mouth, speech, eloquence in speech, the point of a sword. ">face</a> <a href="/greek/4314.htm" title="4314: pros (Prep) -- To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward.">to</a> <a href="/greek/4750.htm" title="4750: stoma (N-ANS) -- The mouth, speech, eloquence in speech, the point of a sword. ">face,</a> <a href="/greek/2443.htm" title="2443: hina (Conj) -- In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.">so that</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: hēmōn (PPro-G1P) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">our</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hē (Art-NFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/5479.htm" title="5479: chara (N-NFS) -- Joy, gladness, a source of joy. From chairo; cheerfulness, i.e. Calm delight.">joy</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: ē (V-PSA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">may be</a> <a href="/greek/4137.htm" title="4137: peplērōmenē (V-RPM/P-NFS) -- From pleres; to make replete, i.e. to cram, level up, or to furnish, satisfy, execute, finish, verify, etc.">complete.</a> 13The children of your elect sister send you greetings.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/3_john/1-13.htm">3 John 1:13-14</a> I have many things to write to you, but I would prefer not to do so with pen and ink. / Instead, I hope to see you soon and speak with you face to face. Peace to you. The friends here send you greetings. Greet each of our friends there by name. <a href="/1_john/1-4.htm">1 John 1:4</a> We write these things so that our joy may be complete. <a href="/john/16-24.htm">John 16:24</a> Until now you have not asked for anything in My name. Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete. <a href="/philippians/2-2.htm">Philippians 2:2</a> then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being united in spirit and purpose. <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-17.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:17</a> Brothers, although we were torn away from you for a short time (in person, not in heart), our desire to see you face to face was even more intense. <a href="/romans/15-32.htm">Romans 15:32</a> so that by God’s will I may come to you with joy and together with you be refreshed. <a href="/1_corinthians/16-7.htm">1 Corinthians 16:7</a> For I do not want to see you now only in passing; I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits. <a href="/acts/20-38.htm">Acts 20:38</a> They were especially grieved by his statement that they would never see his face again. Then they accompanied him to the ship. <a href="/2_corinthians/1-15.htm">2 Corinthians 1:15-16</a> Confident of this, I planned to visit you first, so that you might receive a double blessing. / I wanted to visit you on my way to Macedonia, and to return to you from Macedonia, and then to have you help me on my way to Judea. <a href="/colossians/2-1.htm">Colossians 2:1-2</a> For I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me face to face, / that they may be encouraged in heart, knit together in love, and filled with the full riches of complete understanding, so that they may know the mystery of God, namely Christ, <a href="/hebrews/13-19.htm">Hebrews 13:19</a> And I especially urge you to pray that I may be restored to you soon. <a href="/1_peter/1-8.htm">1 Peter 1:8</a> Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and rejoice with an inexpressible and glorious joy, <a href="/proverbs/25-25.htm">Proverbs 25:25</a> Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land. <a href="/psalms/16-11.htm">Psalm 16:11</a> You have made known to me the path of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand. <a href="/isaiah/52-7.htm">Isaiah 52:7</a> How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!”</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Having many things to write to you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come to you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full.many.<a href="/john/16-12.htm">John 16:12</a> I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.I would.<a href="/3_john/1-13.htm">3 John 1:13</a> I had many things to write, but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee:I trust.<a href="/romans/15-24.htm">Romans 15:24</a> Whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with your company.<a href="/1_corinthians/16-5.htm">1 Corinthians 16:5-7</a> Now I will come unto you, when I shall pass through Macedonia: for I do pass through Macedonia… <a href="/philemon/1-22.htm">Philemon 1:22</a> But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.face to face.<a href="/numbers/12-8.htm">Numbers 12:8</a> With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the LORD shall he behold: wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?that.<a href="/john/15-11.htm">John 15:11</a> These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.<a href="/john/16-24.htm">John 16:24</a> Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.<a href="/john/17-13.htm">John 17:13</a> And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves.our.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_john/5-8.htm">Complete</a> <a href="/hebrews/9-28.htm">Deal</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-12.htm">Face</a> <a href="/2_john/1-8.htm">Full</a> <a href="/1_john/4-1.htm">Great</a> <a href="/2_john/1-11.htm">Happiness</a> <a href="/1_john/3-3.htm">Hope</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-13.htm">Hoping</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-3.htm">Ink</a> <a href="/2_john/1-9.htm">Instead</a> <a href="/2_john/1-4.htm">Joy</a> <a href="/jeremiah/32-16.htm">Paper</a> <a href="/1_john/3-8.htm">Purpose</a> <a href="/2_peter/1-10.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/1_john/4-5.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-8.htm">Trust</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-18.htm">Use</a> <a href="/james/1-27.htm">Visit</a> <a href="/2_peter/3-2.htm">Want</a> <a href="/1_john/5-13.htm">Write</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/revelation/6-11.htm">Complete</a> <a href="/3_john/1-13.htm">Deal</a> <a href="/3_john/1-14.htm">Face</a> <a href="/jude/1-16.htm">Full</a> <a href="/3_john/1-3.htm">Great</a> <a href="/genesis/30-13.htm">Happiness</a> <a href="/3_john/1-14.htm">Hope</a> <a href="/3_john/1-14.htm">Hoping</a> <a href="/3_john/1-13.htm">Ink</a> <a href="/genesis/2-21.htm">Instead</a> <a href="/3_john/1-3.htm">Joy</a> <a href="/isaiah/19-7.htm">Paper</a> <a href="/3_john/1-13.htm">Purpose</a> <a href="/3_john/1-13.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/3_john/1-12.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/3_john/1-14.htm">Trust</a> <a href="/jude/1-9.htm">Use</a> <a href="/genesis/34-1.htm">Visit</a> <a href="/3_john/1-13.htm">Want</a> <a href="/3_john/1-9.htm">Write</a><div class="vheading2">2 John 1</div>1. <a href="/2_john/1-1.htm">He exhorts a certain honorable matron, with her children, to persevere in Christian love and belief,</a> 8. <a href="/2_john/1-8.htm">lest they lose the reward of their former profession;</a> 10. <a href="/2_john/1-10.htm">and to have nothing to do with those seducers that bring not the true doctrine of Christ Jesus.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_john/1.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_john/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/2_john/1.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>I have many things to write to you This phrase indicates the apostle's deep concern and affection for his audience. The use of "many things" suggests that there are numerous issues or teachings he wishes to address, reflecting the comprehensive nature of apostolic instruction. This mirrors other epistles where apostles express a desire to impart wisdom and guidance (e.g., <a href="/1_corinthians/11-34.htm">1 Corinthians 11:34</a>, <a href="/philippians/3.htm">Philippians 3:1</a>).but I would prefer not to do so with paper and ink The preference for personal communication over written correspondence highlights the limitations of letters in conveying the full depth of emotion and nuance. In the ancient world, letters were a common form of communication, but face-to-face interaction was valued for its immediacy and personal connection. This reflects the relational nature of early Christian communities.Instead, I hope to come and speak with you face to face The desire for personal interaction underscores the importance of fellowship and direct communication in the early church. "Face to face" suggests a level of intimacy and personal engagement that written words cannot achieve. This phrase echoes the relational aspect of Jesus' ministry, where personal encounters were transformative (e.g., <a href="/john/4-7.htm">John 4:7-26</a>, the Samaritan woman at the well).so that our joy may be complete The completion of joy through personal interaction suggests that fellowship and unity among believers are sources of profound joy. This reflects the biblical theme that true joy is found in community and shared faith (e.g., <a href="/philippians/2-2.htm">Philippians 2:2, 1</a> <a href="/john/1-4.htm">John 1:4</a>). The phrase also points to the eschatological hope of complete joy in the presence of Christ, as believers anticipate the fullness of joy in eternal fellowship with Him.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/john_the_apostle.htm">John the Apostle</a> The author of this epistle, John was one of Jesus' closest disciples and is traditionally understood to be the "beloved disciple." He wrote this letter to a community of believers, often referred to as the "elect lady and her children." 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_elect_lady_and_her_children.htm">The Elect Lady and Her Children</a> This phrase is often interpreted as a metaphor for a local church and its members. John addresses them with affection and concern for their spiritual well-being. 3. <a href="/topical/f/face-to-face_communication.htm">Face-to-Face Communication</a> John expresses a desire to visit the recipients in person, emphasizing the importance of personal interaction in the early Christian community.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_value_of_personal_fellowship.htm">The Value of Personal Fellowship</a> John emphasizes the importance of face-to-face communication, which fosters deeper relationships and understanding among believers. In our digital age, we should strive to maintain personal connections within our church communities. <a href="/topical/t/the_joy_of_christian_fellowship.htm">The Joy of Christian Fellowship</a> True joy in the Christian life is often found in the fellowship of believers. Gathering together allows us to encourage one another and share in the joy of our faith. <a href="/topical/t/the_limitations_of_written_communication.htm">The Limitations of Written Communication</a> While letters and written communication are valuable, they cannot replace the depth and richness of personal interaction. We should seek to balance our use of technology with real-life fellowship. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_leadership_in_the_church.htm">The Role of Leadership in the Church</a> As a leader, John demonstrates the importance of being present with those he shepherds. Church leaders today should also prioritize personal engagement with their congregations.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_john_1.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 John 1</a> <a href="/q/is_god_for_the_living,_not_the_dead.htm">What does 'our joy may be full' mean?</a> <a href="/q/what_defines_the_christian_walk.htm">What does 'The Word of God is living' mean?</a> <a href="/q/what_defines_eternal_life.htm">What defines eternal life?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'our_joy_may_be_full'_mean.htm">What does "our joy may be full" mean?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_john/1.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(3) Conclusion (<a href="/context/2_john/1-12.htm" title="Having many things to write to you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come to you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full.">2John 1:12-13</a>).(12) Having many things to write unto you.--This verse shows that the Letter to the matron and her family was not a mere accompaniment of a copy of the First Epistle. His heart is full of things to write, but he hopes soon to have unlimited conversation.Paper.--The Egyptian papyrus.Ink.--A mixture of soot, water, and gum. The papyrus-tree grows in the swamps of the Nile to the height of ten feet and more. Paper was prepared from the thin coats that surround the plant. Pliny describes the method (xiii. 23). The different pieces were joined together by the turbid Nile water, as it has a kind of glutinous property. One layer of papyrus was laid flat on a board, and a cross layer put over it; these were pressed, and afterwards dried in the sun. The sheets were then fastened or pasted together. There were never more than twenty of these sheets fastened together in a roll; but of course the length could be increased to any extent. The writing was in columns, with a blank slip between them; it was only on one side. When the work was finished, it was rolled on a staff, and sometimes wrapped in a parchment case (Smith, Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities, p. 567).Of the ink used by the Romans, Pliny says that it was made of soot in various ways, with burnt resin or pitch. "For this purpose they have built furnaces which do not allow the smoke to escape. The kind most commended is made in this way from pine-wood: it is mixed with soot from the furnaces or baths; and this they use for writing on rolls. Some also make a kind of ink by boiling and straining the lees of wine." The black matter of the cuttle-fish was also sometimes used for writing (Smith, Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities, p. 110).The pen was a reed, sharpened with a knife, and split like a quill-pen.The Jews seem to have used lamp-black dissolved in gall-juice, or lamp-black and vitriol, for ink. The modern scribes "have an apparatus consisting of a metal or ebony tube for their reed-pens, with a cup or bulb of the same material attached to the upper end for ink. This they thrust through the girdle, and carry with them at all times" (Thomson, The Land and the Book, p. 131; Smith's Dictionary of the Bible, p. 1802).Speak face to face.--Not that there was any oral tradition which he would not write down. His Gospel and First Epistle would contain the outline of all his teaching. But on this occasion there was no need for writing. (Comp. <a href="/1_corinthians/13-12.htm" title="For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.">1Corinthians 13:12</a>.) . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_john/1.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verses 12, 13. - 3. THE CONCLUSION OF THE EPISTLE. It is in their openings and conclusions, and especially in the latter, that the Second and Third Epistles have so strong a resemblance that we are almost compelled to assign them not merely to the same author, but to the same period in the author's life. St. John had a tenacious memory, as his writings prove; but we may doubt whether so trivial a matter as the mode of beginning and ending a short letter would have remained for years together in his mind. We may reasonably conclude from their similarity that these two Epistles are separated from one another by only a short interval of time. Verse 12. - Having many things to write. This remark is almost conclusive against the supposition that the Second Epistle was sent as a companion-letter to the First. The hypothesis has little or nothing to support it. I would not (do so) by means of paper and ink. It is astonishing that any one should suppose that intercourse on paper is here opposed to spiritual intercourse: obviously it is opposed to conversation. The elder just writes what is of urgent importance to prevent fatal mistakes during the present time, and leaves everything else until he can talk matters over with her. Ξάρις is mentioned nowhere else in the New Testament, but is found in the Septuagint (<a href="/jeremiah/36-23.htm">Jeremiah 36:23</a>); it probably means "papyrus." Μέλαν occurs in the parallel passage <a href="/3_john/1-13.htm">3 John 1:13</a>, and in <a href="/2_corinthians/3-3.htm">2 Corinthians 3:3</a>; it was commonly made of lampblack or other soot, and hence the name. But I hope to come unto you; literally, I hope to come to be γένεσθαι at your house. Πρὸς ὑμᾶς is here very much the same as the French chez vous. So also πρὸς ἡμᾶς, <a href="/matthew/13-56.htm">Matthew 13:56</a> (comp. <a href="/1_corinthians/16-7.htm">1 Corinthians 16:7</a>; <a href="/galatians/1-18.htm">Galatians 1:18</a>; <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-4.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:4</a>; <a href="/philemon/1-13.htm">Philemon 1:13</a>). "Face to face" στόμα πρὸς στόμα is exactly the French bouche a bouche. The phrase occurs only here and <a href="/3_john/1-14.htm">3 John 1:14</a> in the New Testament. In <a href="/1_corinthians/13-12.htm">1 Corinthians 13:12</a> we have πρόσωπον πρὸς πρόσωπον; but there the emphatic thing is that the two should see one another. Here the special point is that they should converse with one another; and this is more clearly expressed by "month to mouth" than by "face to face." For the phrase, "that your joy may be fulfilled," see note on 1 John 1:4, to which passage the apostle may here be consciously referring. That was ever one main purpose of his teaching - the perfecting of Christian joy. <a href="/commentaries/2_john/1-12.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>I have ἔχων (echōn) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2192.htm">Strong's 2192: </a> To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold. many things Πολλὰ (Polla) Adjective - Accusative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4183.htm">Strong's 4183: </a> Much, many; often. to write γράφειν (graphein) Verb - Present Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_1125.htm">Strong's 1125: </a> A primary verb; to 'grave', especially to write; figuratively, to describe. you, ὑμῖν (hymin) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. [but] I would prefer ἐβουλήθην (eboulēthēn) Verb - Aorist Indicative Passive - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1014.htm">Strong's 1014: </a> To will, intend, desire, wish. Middle voice of a primary verb; to 'will, ' i.e. be willing. not οὐκ (ouk) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. to use διὰ (dia) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1223.htm">Strong's 1223: </a> A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through. paper χάρτου (chartou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5489.htm">Strong's 5489: </a> Papyrus, paper. From the same as charax; a sheet of writing-material. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. ink. μέλανος (melanos) Noun - Genitive Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3188.htm">Strong's 3188: </a> Ink. Neuter of melas as noun; ink. Instead, ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. I hope ἐλπίζω (elpizō) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1679.htm">Strong's 1679: </a> To hope, hope for, expect, trust. From elpis; to expect or confide. to come γενέσθαι (genesthai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Middle <a href="/greek/strongs_1096.htm">Strong's 1096: </a> A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. speak λαλῆσαι (lalēsai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_2980.htm">Strong's 2980: </a> A prolonged form of an otherwise obsolete verb; to talk, i.e. Utter words. with πρὸς (pros) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_4314.htm">Strong's 4314: </a> To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward. you ὑμᾶς (hymas) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. [face] στόμα (stoma) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4750.htm">Strong's 4750: </a> The mouth, speech, eloquence in speech, the point of a sword. to πρὸς (pros) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_4314.htm">Strong's 4314: </a> To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward. [face], στόμα (stoma) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4750.htm">Strong's 4750: </a> The mouth, speech, eloquence in speech, the point of a sword. so that ἵνα (hina) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2443.htm">Strong's 2443: </a> In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that. our ἡμῶν (hēmōn) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. joy χαρὰ (chara) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5479.htm">Strong's 5479: </a> Joy, gladness, a source of joy. From chairo; cheerfulness, i.e. Calm delight. may be ᾖ (ē) Verb - Present Subjunctive Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. complete. πεπληρωμένη (peplērōmenē) Verb - Perfect Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4137.htm">Strong's 4137: </a> From pleres; to make replete, i.e. to cram, level up, or to furnish, satisfy, execute, finish, verify, etc. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_john/1-12.htm">2 John 1:12 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_john/1-12.htm">2 John 1:12 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_john/1-12.htm">2 John 1:12 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_john/1-12.htm">2 John 1:12 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_john/1-12.htm">2 John 1:12 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_john/1-12.htm">2 John 1:12 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_john/1-12.htm">2 John 1:12 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_john/1-12.htm">2 John 1:12 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_john/1-12.htm">2 John 1:12 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_john/1-12.htm">2 John 1:12 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_john/1-12.htm">NT Letters: 2 John 1:12 Having many things to write to you (2J iiJ 2Jn ii jn 2 jo)</a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_john/1-11.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 John 1:11"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 John 1:11" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_john/1-13.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 John 1:13"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 John 1:13" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>