The elder to the chosen lady and her children, whom I love in truth; and not only I, but also all who know the truth,

Now I ask you, lady, not as though I were writing to you a new commandment, but the one which we have had from the beginning, that we love one another.

Watch yourselves, that you do not lose what we have accomplished, but that you may receive a full reward.

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.