3 John 1:2 "Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers." (NKJV)
To break down this verse, let's examine its components:
First, "Beloved": The apostle John addresses the letter's recipient as "beloved." This term of endearment reflects the close relationship between the author and the recipient, as well as the love and care that the author has for the individual.
"I pray that you may prosper": John expresses his wish or prayer for the recipient to experience prosperity. The word "prosper" here implies success, growth, or progress in various aspects of life. It expresses goodwill and a desire for the recipient's well-being.
"in all things and be in health": The author extends his wish for prosperity to include physical and material well-being. "In all things" implies that John desires the recipient to be successful and content in every area of their life. "Be in health" refers specifically to the recipient's physical well-being, an essential part of living a whole and happy life.
"just as your soul prospers": This phrase suggests that the author acknowledges the spiritual well-being of the recipient. By using the word "just as," John draws a parallel between the physical/material prosperity, he wishes for the recipient and the spiritual prosperity the recipient already enjoys. It emphasizes the importance of spiritual growth and nourishment alongside physical and material well-being.
In summary, 3 John 1:2 is a heartfelt expression of John's care and concern for the letter's recipient. He prays for their overall well-being, encompassing physical health, material success, and spiritual growth, emphasizing the importance of a balanced and prosperous life.
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