Final Greetings

I had much to write to you, but I would rather not write with pen and ink. I hope to see you soon, and we will talk face to face. Peace be to you. The friends greet you. Greet the friends, each by name.
3 John 13–15
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Final Greetings
Our parents gave us names. Giving someone a name is an activity of authority. That is why it hurts so badly when people call you all kinds of names. They are exerting a false authority over you, they are bullying you, trying to change your good name, and manipulate you for their purpose. So also, your God gives you a name. He names you in the waters of baptism and calls you his own child. He puts “Father, Son, and Holy Spirit” on you, and he seals up the deal with a cross for your forehead and a cross for your heart. You are marked as one redeemed by Christ the crucified. Here on earth, the spiritual powers know you belong to Jesus. In heaven, Jesus writes your name in the book of life. There in heaven, everyone knows you are one of the faithful and righteous. Thanks be to God that he has declared us to be his own and has washed away our sins in his crucifixion. We greet each other by name and in the name of our God.
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