BIDDING GODSPEED

2 John 9-11

2 John 9-11

9 Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him; 11 for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.

2 John 9-11

This is a short letter because :

Verse 12 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.

2 Issues to discuss

1 – What is “godspeed”?

Godspeed = encourage, comfort, support, provide aid

John includes – invite into your house, feed them, give them money

Greet – more than say “hello”

Greet = welcome, treat as family

2 Issues to discuss

2 – When should we bid someone godspeed and when should we not bid someone godspeed?

We will notice where we should not withhold godspeed.

Then learn from whom we should withhold godspeed.

Do not withhold because :

Personal disagreementPersonal disagreementActs 15:37-41 – Paul and Barnabas disagreed – did not break fellowship

2 Timothy 4:11 – Mark was invited to come because of his value

Do not withhold because :

Personal ConsciencePersonal ConscienceRomans 14 – My choice to eat sloppy joes on Christmas

It is also your choice to eat something else

Give gifts, celebrate with family – ignore the holidays – your choice

Do not withhold because :

Weak ChristiansWeak ChristiansActs 18:24-28 Apollos – great knowledge – except on one point

Some are unwilling to learn, to grow, to be corrected or taught

If others know – learn from them

If you know – share it in love

Do withhold from:

False TeachersFalse TeachersThose who publicly teach a false docrine – must be corrected – not encouraged

Do withhold from:

Unwilling to LearnUnwilling to LearnAre they willing to study and learn the error of their way – like Apollos did?

Ignorance can be overcome – if they are willing to learn

Do withhold from:

Romans 16:17 – Mark themRomans 16:17 – Mark themNow I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them.

Do withhold from:

1 John 4:1 – Test them1 John 4:1 – Test themBeloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.

Apply to us today?

Yes – false teachers are still present in the religious world, on TV and in pulpits across this county

Apply to us today?

Yes – false teachers are still present among us – preachers, elders, college teachers, authors, brethren in error

Apply to us today?

Yes – false teachers are still present becuase of weak Christians who lack the knowledge and understanding

Final Warning!

2 John 11 - for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.

If you support error – you If you support error – you become their partner, become their partner, supporter, and are as guilty as supporter, and are as guilty as they are.they are.