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1:1 The elder to the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth, and not only I but also all who know the truth, 1:2 because of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever: 1:3 Grace, mercy, and peace will be with us from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, in truth and love. 1:4 I was overjoyed to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as we have been commanded by the Father. 1:5 But now, dear lady, I ask you, not as though I were writing you a new commandment, but one we have had from the beginning, let us love one another. 1:6 And this is love, that we walk according to his commandments; this is the commandment just as you have heard it from the beginning-- you must walk in it. 1:7 Many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh; any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist! 1:8 Be on your guard, so that you do not lose what we have worked for, but may receive a full reward. 1:9 Everyone who does not abide in the teaching of Christ, but goes beyond it, does not have God; whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. 1:10 Do not receive into the house or welcome anyone who comes to you and does not bring this teaching; 1:11 for to welcome is to participate in the evil deeds of such a person. 1:12 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. 1:13 The children of your elect sister send you their greetings.