3 John 1:9

¶ I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not.

I wrote {G1125} unto the church {G1577}: but {G235} Diotrephes {G1361}, who {G3588} loveth to have the preeminence {G5383} among them {G846}, receiveth {G1926} us {G2248} not {G3756}.

I wrote something to the congregation; but Diotrephes, who likes to be the macher among them, doesn’t recognize our authority.

I have written to the church about this, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not accept our instruction.

I wrote somewhat unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not.

Commentary

The Third Epistle of John, a brief but potent letter, addresses concerns within an early Christian community. This verse introduces a specific individual, Diotrephes, who poses a significant challenge to the Apostle John's authority and the well-being of the local church.

Context

John, the beloved Apostle, often called "the Elder" (2 John 1:1, 3 John 1:1), had previously sent a letter to a church, likely concerning the reception of itinerant missionaries. However, his intentions were thwarted by Diotrephes. This letter to Gaius (3 John 1:1), a faithful believer, serves to commend Gaius's hospitality and warn him about Diotrephes' disruptive behavior, reinforcing apostolic oversight in the face of local church politics and resistance.

Key Themes

  • Pride and Ambition in Leadership: Diotrephes is characterized by his desire "to have the preeminence among them." This phrase, from the Greek philoprotos (φιλοπρῶτος), literally means "loving to be first" or "loving the first place." It highlights a self-serving ambition contrary to the servant leadership exemplified by Christ (Matthew 20:26-28) and taught by the apostles (1 Peter 5:2-3). Diotrephes's pride led him to reject legitimate spiritual authority and disrupt the church's unity.
  • Rejection of Apostolic Authority: By not "receiving us," Diotrephes openly defied John, an apostle of Christ. This was not merely a personal slight but a rejection of the divine authority and message carried by John and his emissaries. Such resistance undermined the established spiritual order and the spread of the Gospel.
  • The Importance of Hospitality: Early Christian communities relied heavily on hospitality for traveling teachers and missionaries. Diotrephes's refusal to receive John's delegates, and his subsequent excommunication of those who did (3 John 1:10), demonstrates a severe lack of Christian love and a hindrance to ministry. This stands in stark contrast to Gaius's commendable practice of practicing hospitality.

Linguistic Insight

The term "preeminence" is a crucial insight into Diotrephes's character. The Greek word philoprotos (φιλοπρῶτος) vividly portrays someone who loves to be the "first" or "foremost" in rank, influence, or position. This desire for personal power and control, rather than humble service, was the root of his opposition to John and his disruptive actions within the church.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a timeless warning against the dangers of pride and self-exaltation within the church. Leaders and members alike are called to humility and service, not to seek personal glory or control. It reminds us that true spiritual authority is recognized through godly character, adherence to sound doctrine, and a spirit of cooperation, rather than through domineering behavior. The example of Diotrephes underscores the importance of discerning leadership and upholding genuine Christian hospitality as a vital expression of love and support for God's work.

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Cross-References

  • Titus 1:7 (6 votes)

    For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;

  • Titus 1:16 (6 votes)

    They profess that they know God; but in works they deny [him], being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

  • Luke 22:24 (5 votes)

    And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted the greatest.

  • Luke 22:27 (5 votes)

    For whether [is] greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? [is] not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth.

  • Luke 9:48 (4 votes)

    And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great.

  • Matthew 23:4 (3 votes)

    For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay [them] on men's shoulders; but they [themselves] will not move them with one of their fingers.

  • Matthew 23:8 (3 votes)

    But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, [even] Christ; and all ye are brethren.