Theme - Various views have been suggested as to the meaning of "the elect lady and her children"; but it appears that these terms were not employed allegorically. The persons addressed were quite certainly some influential lady and her family somewhere within the circle of John's labours. The purpose of the apostle was to warn these friends against certain false teachers, and he expresses his appreciation of their loyalty in the opening verses.

Outline - The following outline is a simple analysis: I. Appreciation of Loyalty (Vrs. 1-4) II. Entreaty to Walk in Love and Keep the Commandments (Vrs. 5, 6) III. Warnings against Deceivers (Vrs. 7-9) IV. Restrictions with Reference to Hospitality to False Teachers (Vrs. 10, 11) V. Plans for an Early Visit (Vrs. 12) VI. Greetings (Vrs.13)