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, To the beloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth: ​
2
Beloved, I pray that in every way you may prosper and enjoy good health, as your soul also prospers. ​
3
For I was overjoyed when the brothers came and testified about your devotion to the truth, in which you continue to walk.
4
I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. ​

Gaius Commended for Faithful Hospitality

5
Beloved, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers, and especially since they are strangers to you.
6
They have testified to the church about your love. You will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God.
7
For they went out on behalf of the Name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles. ​
8
Therefore we ought to support such men, so that we may be fellow workers for the truth. ​

The Opposition of Diotrephes

9
I have written to the church about this, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not accept our instruction. ​
10
So if I come, I will call attention to his malicious slander against us. And unsatisfied with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers and forbids those who want to do so, even putting them out of the church. ​
11
Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. The one who does good is of God; the one who does evil has not seen God. ​

Commendation of Demetrius and Conclusion

12
Demetrius has received a good testimony from everyone, and from the truth itself. We also testify for him, and you know that our testimony is true. ​
13
I have many things to write to you, but I would prefer not to do so with pen and ink.
14
Instead, I hope to see you soon and speak with you face to face. Peace to you. The friends here send you greetings. Greet each of our friends there 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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