3 John1

The Elder commends Gaius for his steadfast walk in truth and his faithful hospitality towards traveling brethren, expressing great joy in his spiritual well-being. In stark contrast, the Elder denounces Diotrephes, who seeks preeminence, rejects apostolic authority, and maliciously expels faithful believers from the church. The Elder promises to address Diotrephes's actions upon his arrival, while also commending Demetrius as an example of good conduct.
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Salutation and Prayer for Gaius

1
The elder unto Gaius the beloved, whom I love in truth. ​
2
Beloved, I pray that in all things thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. ​
3
For I rejoiced greatly, when brethren came and bare witness unto thy truth, even as thou walkest in truth.
4
Greater joy have I none than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth. ​

Gaius Commended for Faithful Hospitality

5
Beloved, thou doest a faithful work in whatsoever thou doest toward them that are brethren and strangers withal;
6
who bare witness to thy love before the church: whom thou wilt do well to set forward on their journey worthily of God:
7
because that for the sake of the Name they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles. ​
8
We therefore ought to welcome such, that we may be fellow-workers for the truth. ​

The Opposition of Diotrephes

9
I wrote somewhat unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not. ​
10
Therefore, if I come, I will bring to remembrance his works which he doeth, prating against us with wicked words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and them that would he forbiddeth and casteth them out of the church. ​
11
Beloved, imitate not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: he that doeth evil hath not seen God. ​

Commendation of Demetrius and Conclusion

12
Demetrius hath the witness of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, we also bear witness; and thou knowest that our witness is true. ​
13
I had many things to write unto thee, but I am unwilling to write them to thee with ink and pen:
14
but I hope shortly to see thee, and we shall speak face to face. Peace be unto thee. The friends salute thee. Salute the friends by name.

Study Notes for 3 John 1

Verse 1

The 'elder' is traditionally identified as the Apostle John, who uses this title to emphasize his spiritual authority and seniority. Gaius was a recipient of this personal letter, likely a respected leader or wealthy patron in a local church in Asia Minor.

Verse 2

This verse is a common Hellenistic greeting, wishing physical and financial well-being. The key phrase, 'even as thy soul prospereth,' clarifies that John prioritized spiritual health, viewing material prosperity as secondary or parallel to inward growth.

Verse 4

The Elder referring to believers as 'my children' highlights his apostolic authority and spiritual fatherhood over the churches he founded or oversaw, a common theme in his epistles (1 John 2:1).

Verse 7

These traveling missionaries refused financial support from non-Christians ('the Gentiles'), ensuring that their witness was not compromised and that they relied solely on the Christian community for provision.

Verse 8

By supporting these traveling evangelists, Gaius and other local Christians become 'fellowhelpers to the truth' (co-workers). Hospitality is thus elevated from a simple charitable act to an active participation in missionary work.

Verse 9

Diotrephes represents a threat to apostolic authority; he actively sought preeminence (leadership) in the local church, rejecting the Elder’s legitimate oversight. This demonstrates early struggles for power within the developing church structure.

Verse 10

The malicious deeds of Diotrephes included slandering the apostles, refusing to host legitimate missionaries, and perhaps most severely, exercising unauthorized excommunication ('casteth them out of the church') against those who disagreed with him.

Verse 11

This verse serves as a crucial ethical hinge, contrasting the godly conduct of Gaius and the missionaries with the evil ambition of Diotrephes. Doing good is tied directly to knowing God, reflecting the ethical dualism common in John’s writings.

Verse 12

Demetrius is presented as a positive example, in contrast to Diotrephes. He was likely the bearer of this letter and is endorsed by John as someone whose character is confirmed both by the community and by the inherent truth of his actions.

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