What is the context?
The writer introduces himself as the elder and addresses the chosen lady and her children. Before giving any warning, he speaks of love grounded in the truth they share. This truth lives among them and will remain with them.
The word translated abides means remains or continues. Here it describes the truth’s lasting presence. Grace, mercy and peace come from the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, within this life of truth and love.
How is this passage commonly understood?
The main difference is the identity of the lady. Wesley understands an individual Christian woman and takes the term as her name, Kyria. The USCCB study note understands a local church, with its members pictured as children. The closing greeting from an elect sister fits that church reading, though it does not name either community.
Both readings recognize a greeting to people joined by Christian truth and love. The letter itself does not give their location or explain why the writer uses the title elder.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
In John 14:15–24, Jesus joins keeping His word with love for Him and the presence of the Father, the Son and the Spirit of truth. This provides a wider biblical setting for the letter’s opening: God gathers people into life with Him, and His abiding truth shapes their love for one another.
What is our position?
Our study The True Church According to Jesus places Christ at the foundation of the church and identifies self-giving love as the mark of His people. From that study, we understand truth about Christ and love for one another as belonging together in the life of the church.