Recently I had the opportunity to have a discussion with some Jehovah’s witnesses. My wife quickly prayed for me and also asked many on Facebook to do the same. Several people posted encouraging comments and promises of prayer. One post however caught me off guard. They quoted 2 John 1:7-11. These verses seem quite clear that we should not be entertaining groups such as the Jehovah’s witnesses. This has caused me some concern as it doesn't seem like the correct interpretation. But I need some more perspective so anyone have some thoughts they wish to share?
2 John 1:7-11 (New International Version)
Many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. Watch out that you do not lose what you have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully. Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take him into your house or welcome him. Anyone who welcomes him shares in his wicked work.
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written by Scott, June 02, 2010
Interesting take on the verse. I have always prefered what most people call a litteral interpritation but I call a simple or plain reading. That being said, most of the translations seem to be along the line of dont let these people into your house. Nothing about hospitality or meals or anything like that. It would not preclude a conversation so long as it remains outside your home. Why this is important I do not know. I think that it could be argued that keeping to this reading may mean that unsaved relatives would not be welcome in your home. Not a pretty option but then Jesus did say that he came to set father againt son. I need to look up a couple specific verses but as I recall there are several places where we are instructed not to entertain for a lack of better word pagens. I need to work on this a bit more. Thanks for the input John.
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Explanatory Notes from Wesley
1:10If any came to you - Either as a teacher or a brother.And bring not this doctrine - That is, advance anything contrary to it. Receive him not into your house - As either a teacher or a brother - Neither bid him God speed - Give him no encouragement therein.
1:11For he that biddeth him God speed - That gives him any encouragement, is accessory to his evil deeds.