3 John 1:3

¶ For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth.

For {G1063} I rejoiced {G5463} greatly {G3029}, when the brethren {G80} came {G2064} and {G2532} testified {G3140} of the truth {G225} that is in thee {G4675}, even as {G2531} thou {G4771} walkest {G4043} in {G1722} the truth {G225}.

For I was so happy when some brothers came and testified how faithful you are to the truth, as you continue living in the truth.

For I was overjoyed when the brothers came and testified about your devotion to the truth, in which you continue to walk.

For I rejoiced greatly, when brethren came and bare witness unto thy truth, even as thou walkest in truth.

The Apostle John, in his third epistle, expresses profound joy over the spiritual condition of Gaius, a beloved brother in Christ. This verse highlights the core reason for John's rejoicing: Gaius's genuine adherence to and practical demonstration of Christian truth.

Context

The Third Epistle of John is a personal letter from the Apostle John to Gaius, a faithful believer known for his hospitality to traveling missionaries. Unlike 1 John, which addresses theological truths, and 2 John, which warns against false teachers, 3 John focuses on issues of church administration, hospitality, and conduct within the Christian community. John, as an elder, is commending Gaius and implicitly contrasting him with Diotrephes, who was causing division. This verse sets the positive tone, revealing John's pastoral heart and joy when believers live consistently with their faith.

Key Themes

  • Joy in Godly Living: John's "great rejoicing" underscores the immense satisfaction and encouragement that comes from seeing fellow believers live authentically. It's a joy rooted in spiritual integrity, not worldly success.
  • Truth as a Foundation: The phrase "the truth that is in thee" refers to the core of Christian doctrine and the transformative power of the Gospel dwelling within Gaius. It speaks to an internal conviction and understanding of God's Word.
  • Walking in the Truth: This is the practical outworking of inner truth. "Walkest in the truth" signifies a lifestyle where one's actions, decisions, and character are consistent with the principles of the Christian faith. It's about living out what one believes, a theme often emphasized by John (e.g., 1 John 1:6).
  • Testimony of Others: The arrival of "the brethren" who "testified" of Gaius's truthfulness highlights the importance of Christian fellowship and accountability. Their report served as confirmation of Gaius's genuine faith and conduct, bringing joy to the apostle.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "truth" used here is alētheia (ἀλήθεια). It signifies not merely factual correctness but also reality, sincerity, and faithfulness. When John speaks of "the truth that is in thee," it implies an inner reality and authenticity of faith. To "walk in the truth" means to live in accordance with that reality, demonstrating integrity and faithfulness in all aspects of life, reflecting the very nature of God, who is truth.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a powerful encouragement for believers today to not only embrace biblical truth intellectually but to embody it practically. Our lives should be a consistent testimony to what we believe. When we "walk worthy" of our calling, it brings joy to those who observe our lives, strengthens the Christian community, and honors God. It challenges us to reflect: Are our actions aligning with our professed faith? Do others see evidence of God's truth shaping our character and conduct?

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 2 John 1:4

    I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.

  • 2 John 1:2

    For the truth's sake, which dwelleth in us, and shall be with us for ever.

  • Romans 1:8

    ¶ First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.

  • Romans 1:9

    For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;

  • 1 Thessalonians 3:6

    ¶ But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also [to see] you:

  • 1 Thessalonians 3:9

    For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God;

  • Psalms 119:11

    ¶ Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

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