Is 2 John 1:10–11 about Houseguests?

At first glance, 2 John 1:9–11 appears to be a prohibition against inviting non-Christians into our home. It says this about anyone who doesn't accurately teach the gospel:

"If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching [about the gospel], do not take them into your house or welcome them. Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work." 

What does this mean?

When these verses were written, traveling teachers found lodging with sympathetic supporters. By inviting a teacher to stay in your home, you were approving his beliefs and helping him advance them.

There's nothing ungodly about offering hospitality to non-Christians.  In fact, it's one way we witness to them (1 Corinthians 5:9-11). But we should not do anything that shows support for a false teacher.

Many years ago, my husband and I had a personal experience where this principle applied even though it wasn't in our home:

We were attending the protestant chapel service at a military chapel when a new chaplain was introduced who would be helping to present the service that morning. And he was Mormon (LDS). We quietly slipped out of our seats and went home, feeling that participating in the service would be approving of Mormonism. And we later shared our concerns with the chapel leadership.

Mormons deny the Trinity, the unique deity of Christ, and the divine inspiration of Scripture. 

Christians should treat Mormons kindly and share the gospel with them when given the opportunity, but we cannot and should not partner with them in any way that gives value or validity to their beliefs (2 Corinthians 6:14-18). 

Note: One reason that God tells us not to partner with false teachings is that we are tempted to change our views. For example, working with Mormons caused filmmaker Dallas Jenkins to change his view of Mormonism and affirm some of his LDS friends as true brothers in Christ. See Be Careful that You Don't Let "The Chosen" Affect Your Discernment.

Bible Love Notes