The latter sense is illustrated in 3 John 7, where “the name” absolutely includes the essential elements of the Christian creed, the complete revelation of Christ’s work in relation to God and man. Compare John xx. 31; Acts v. 41.
In ii. 12, the term is more limited, referring to Christ as He lived on earth and gave Himself for “the brethren.” In ili. 23; v. 13, the exact sense is defined by what follows.
(I.) His Son Jesus Christ. i. 3; iii. 23; v.20. The divine antecedent is differently described in each case, and the differ- ence colors the phrase. In i. 23, the Father (compare John 8). In iii. 28, God. In v.20, He that ts true. Thus the sonship of Christ is regarded in relation to God as Father, as God, and as satisfying the divine ideal which man is able to form. The whole phrase, His Son Jesus Christ, includes the two elements of the confessions which John makes prominent.
1. Jesus is the Son of God (iv. 15; v. 5).
2. Jesus is the Christ (ii. 22; v. 1).
The constituents of the compressed phrase are all used sep- arately by John.
(1.) Jesus. ii. 22; v.1; iv. 3 (where the correct reading omits Christ). The thought is that of the Lord in His perfect his- toric humanity.
(2.) Christ. 2 John 9. Pointing to the preparation made under the old covenant.
(8). Jesus Christ. ii.1; v.6; 2 John 7. Combining the ideas of true humanity and messianic position.
In iv. 15, the reading is doubtful: Jesus or Jesus Christ.
On iv. 2, see note.
(4.) The Son. ii. 22, 28,24; iv.14; v.12. The absolute re- lation of Sonship to Fatherhood.
(5.) The Son of God. iii. 8; v.10, 12, 18, 20. Compare Hs Son (iv. 10; v. 9), where the immediate antecedent is 6 Oeds God, and v. 18, He that was begotten of God. Combination of the ideas of Christ’s divine dignity and divine sonship.