2 John, ESV Expository Commentary

Mid-levelBusy pastorsStrong recommendation
Bible Book: 2 John
Publisher: Crossway
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Resource Type: Commentary
Last updated: February 17, 2026
Looking for alternatives? Compare 2 John commentaries.

Evaluation

Overall Score: 8.1/10

A clear guide that helps us preach 2 John with firmness, tenderness, and discernment.

Publication Date(s): 2018
Pages: 784
ISBN: 978-1433546723
Faithfulness to the Text: 8.1/10
We find Ray Van Neste careful with the text’s logic and emphases, helping us keep the letter’s balance of command and warning.
Christ Centredness: 8.1/10
We are kept close to the confession of Christ, so the call to truth is grounded in who he is and what he has done.
Depth of Insight: 7.9/10
We gain solid help with the letter’s purpose and key phrases, enough to preach it with confidence and clarity.
Clarity of Writing: 8.2/10
The writing is direct and accessible, which suits a brief letter and supports quick consultation.
Pastoral Usefulness: 8.3/10
The commentary helps us apply the text to church life, especially where love, truth, and discernment meet.
Readability: 8.1/10
It is easy to read and stays focused on the needs of preaching and teaching.

Summary

At a Glance

Length
784 pages
Type
Expository (Mid-Level)
Theo. Perspective
Broadly Evangelical
Overall score
8.1 / 10
Strength
Strong pastoral help on truth, love, and wise boundaries in the face of deception.
Limitation
Because the letter is short, some background questions are handled briefly.

In 2 John, ESV Expository Commentary, Ray Van Neste helps us preach a short letter with long reach, calling the church to walk in truth, and to guard love from deception. Volume 12.

We are shown how the letter holds together, and why its warnings still matter in ordinary church life.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We should own this volume when we need help preaching briefly, clearly, and with proper weight. It supports us in drawing faithful lines from the text to the life of the congregation.

We are helped to speak about discernment without harshness, and hospitality without naivety, keeping the gospel central.

It also serves as a model for handling small passages with the same care we would give a longer book.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend 2 John, ESV Expository Commentary for pastors and teachers who want clear guidance for preaching truth and love together.

As pastoral next steps, we can visit the Bible Book Overview, browse Top Recommendations, and use the Reformed Commentary Index to build a wiser working library.


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Classification

  • Level: Mid-level
  • Best For: Busy pastors
  • Priority: Strong recommendation

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