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‏ 3 John

Salutation and Prayer.

This letter begins with a warm greeting from John, who calls himself “the elder.” Instead of using a grand title, John chooses a humble one, showing respect for both his age and his role as a leader in the church. He writes to a Christian man named Gaius, who is known for his faith and kindness. John’s opening words are full of love, respect, and a prayer for Gaius’s well-being, both spiritually and physically.

v. 1: John, as the elder, writes to Gaius. He calls Gaius the well-beloved, whom I love in the truth. This shows that their friendship is based on their shared faith and commitment to Jesus. John’s love for Gaius is sincere and rooted in their unity in God’s truth (1 Peter 5:1; Romans 16:23 ^a).

v. 2: John greets Gaius with affection, saying, Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. John recognizes that Gaius’s soul is healthy and growing in faith. He prays that Gaius will also enjoy good physical health and success in life, matching the spiritual prosperity he already enjoys.

The Character of Gaius.

In this part of the letter, John praises Gaius for his faithful Christian life and kindness to others. The good reputation of Gaius is known among other believers, and John is joyful to hear such reports. Gaius is a model for showing love and support to Christian brothers and strangers, especially those working for the gospel.

v. 3: John says, The brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee (3 John 1:3 ^b). Gaius is known for his sincere faith and his genuine love for others. His kindness, hospitality, and help to fellow believers and Christian strangers show that his faith is real and active.

v. 4: John writes, I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in the truth (3 John 1:4 ^c). John rejoices when he hears that those he cares for, like Gaius, live according to God’s truth. This is the greatest reward for a Christian leader or teacher—to see others growing in faith and living rightly.

v. 5: John encourages Gaius: Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers (3 John 1:5 ^d). Gaius’s goodness is shown not only to people he knows but also to Christian strangers. He welcomes and helps all who belong to Christ, showing a generous and open heart.

v. 6: John continues, Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well (3 John 1:6 ^e). The church has heard about Gaius’s love. John encourages him to continue supporting and helping Christian workers, providing for them in a way that honors God (1 Corinthians 16:6 ^f).

v. 7: John explains why this is important: Because that for his name’s sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles (3 John 1:7 ^g). These Christian workers travel to share the gospel and do not ask for help from non-believers. They depend on the support of fellow Christians, making their service for God even more honorable.

v. 8: John concludes, We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth (3 John 1:8 ^h). By helping and supporting those who share the gospel, believers like Gaius become partners in spreading God’s truth. Even if we do not preach ourselves, we can help God’s work by supporting those who do.

The Character of Diotrephes

This section shows a strong warning through the example of Diotrephes, a church leader whose actions were very different from the kindness and hospitality shown by other Christians. Sometimes, even church leaders can act in ways that are not good examples. The apostle John uses Diotrephes as a warning, teaching us what attitudes and behaviors to avoid in the church.

v. 9: Diotrephes is mentioned by name. His name is Gentile, but his actions are not Christian. He is proud and wants to be first among others. He loves to have the pre-eminence . This desire for power is not fitting for a servant of Christ. Leaders in the church should not seek to be above others, but should serve with humility.

v. 10: Diotrephes does not respect the authority of the apostle John. He speaks badly about John and his companions, using harsh and unkind words. He prates against us with malicious words (3 John 1:10 ⁱ). He also refuses to accept the letter John sent to the church, and does not welcome the brothers John recommended. Worse, he stops others from welcoming them and even throws them out of the church. This shows how ambition and pride can lead to unkindness and division in the church. Leaders should not use their power to harm others or to stop good works.

John warns that if he comes, he will deal with Diotrephes’ actions. Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth (3 John 1:10 ^j). John does not plan to hold a formal court, but he will address the problem in the church. It is important for church leaders to correct those who misuse their authority and act in a proud or harsh way.

v. 11: John gives advice to the believers: Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good (3 John 1:11 ^k). Do not copy the bad example of Diotrephes or anyone who does wrong. Instead, do what is good—show wisdom, purity, peace, and love. Those who do good show that they belong to God. He that doeth good is of God (3 John 1:11 ^l). But those who do evil show that they do not truly know God. This is a reminder that our actions show our true relationship with God.

The Character of Demetrius; Conclusion and Salutation

This section introduces Demetrius, a man with a strong reputation for goodness, and ends the letter with final greetings and a blessing. Having a good name in the church is more valuable than any worldly success. The apostle John encourages believers to value good character, and he shows the importance of personal relationships and kind greetings among Christians.

v. 12: Demetrius is praised for his excellent character. Demetrius has a good report of all men (3 John 1:12 ^m). Not many people are spoken well of by everyone, but Demetrius is known for his honesty and goodness. He is also praised by the truth itself, meaning his actions line up with the message of the gospel. The apostle John and his friends add their own testimony, saying, we also bear record, and remind Gaius that he too knows this is true. It is important for Christians to support and encourage those who do good.

v. 13: John mentions that he has many other things to say, but he does not want to write them all in a letter. I have many things to write, but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee (3 John 1:13 ⁿ). Some things are better discussed face to face. Meeting in person is valuable for building strong friendships in Christ.

v. 14: John hopes to visit Gaius soon. He ends with a blessing: Peace be to you (3 John 1:14 ^o). He also sends greetings from their Christian friends, saying, Our friends salute thee. He asks Gaius to greet each of his friends by name. This personal touch shows that every believer is important. Christians should remember each other and treat everyone with love and respect, hoping to live together with Christ forever.