The elder [of the church addresses this letter] to the elect (chosen) lady and her children, whom I love in truth—and not only I, but also all who know and understand the truth—

It makes me exceedingly happy to find that some of your children are guided by truth, just as we have been commanded to be by the Father.

For many deceivers are gone out into the world, who do not confess Jesus the Messiah as come in the flesh. Such a one is a deceiver and an antichrist.

Look out for yourselves, take care not to lose what we have worked for, but make sure that you are paid for it in full.