An Introduction to 3 John: A Commendation of Faithfulness
The Third Epistle of John, though the shortest book in the New Testament, is a profound and practical letter that offers timeless lessons on Christian hospitality, discernment, and the commendation of faithfulness. Penned by "the elder," an appellation widely understood to refer to the Apostle John, this personal letter addresses a specific set of circumstances within the early church, highlighting the virtues of truth and love, and the dangers of pride and unrighteous ambition. It serves as a powerful reminder that walking in truth is inextricably linked to demonstrating love, especially towards those who labour in the Gospel. The central theme that emerges is a strong commendation of faithfulness, particularly as exemplified in Gaius, the recipient of the letter.
The Author and His Beloved Recipient
The opening verse immediately identifies the author: "The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth." (3 John 1:1). This title, "the elder," distinguishes John in his mature years, likely serving as a respected apostolic figure overseeing churches in Asia Minor. It conveys authority tempered with pastoral affection. The recipient, Gaius, is described as "wellbeloved" and one whom John loves "in the truth." This intimate greeting sets a warm tone, indicating a deep personal relationship built on shared faith and adherence to sound doctrine. Gaius is not merely a recipient of a letter; he is a trusted brother whose conduct truly reflects the principles of the Gospel.
While the New Testament mentions other individuals named Gaius (e.g., Acts 19:29, Acts 20:4, Romans 16:23, 1 Corinthians 1:14), it is most probable that this Gaius was a prominent and hospitable member of a local church, known to John, who frequently opened his home to itinerant missionaries.
Context and Purpose: A Tale of Three Men
Third John is essentially a commendation, a condemnation, and a recommendation. John writes to address a pressing issue within the church concerning the treatment of travelling missionaries and the disruptive behaviour of a certain individual named Diotrephes. The broader purpose is to encourage Gaius to continue his faithful service, to warn against the ungodly actions of Diotrephes, and to commend Demetrius, who likely carried the letter and was himself a faithful servant.
The early church relied heavily on itinerant preachers and teachers who travelled from place to place, proclaiming the Gospel and strengthening believers. Hospitality was not merely a social custom but a vital support system for these labourers. John's letter underscores the importance of this practical expression of love and truth.
- Gaius: The faithful host.
- Diotrephes: The proud opposer.
- Demetrius: The commendable witness.
Gaius: A Commendation of Faithfulness and Hospitality
John lavishes praise upon Gaius, commending him for his steadfast walk in truth and his exemplary hospitality. The Apostle hears good reports of Gaius's spiritual health and consistency:
I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.
This "walking in truth" means living consistently with the doctrines of Christ, allowing the truth to govern one's actions, thoughts, and words. A key demonstration of Gaius's truth-walking was his hospitality towards travelling brethren, even strangers:
Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers; 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: Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.
Gaius's actions were considered "faithful" because they supported those who ventured out "for his name's sake," meaning for the sake of Christ and His Gospel. This hospitality was not just a kindness but a partnership in the work of God:
We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.
This verse highlights a crucial principle: supporting those who preach the truth makes one a "fellowhelper" or co-worker in the spread of the Gospel. Gaius's faithfulness in this regard is held up as an example for all believers.
Diotrephes: A Condemnation of Pride and Unfaithfulness
In stark contrast to Gaius stands Diotrephes, a man who loved "to have the preeminence." John sharply condemns his ungodly behaviour:
I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not. Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church.
Diotrephes's actions reveal several serious spiritual deficiencies:
Diotrephes's actions were a direct affront to the truth and love that John championed. His unfaithfulness was manifest in his pride, his rejection of legitimate authority, and his active hindrance of Gospel work. John warns Gaius, and by extension, all believers, not to imitate such evil:
Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.
This verse provides a clear moral imperative: imitate good, not evil. It connects righteous conduct with being "of God" and unrighteous conduct with not having truly "seen God," emphasizing the fruit of true conversion.
Demetrius: A Commendation of Good Report
Finally, John recommends Demetrius, who was likely the bearer of the letter to Gaius:
Demetrius hath good report of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, and we also bear record; and ye know that our record is true.
Demetrius stands as another example of faithfulness. He is commended by "all men," by "the truth itself" (meaning his life aligns with the Gospel), and by John and his associates. This comprehensive endorsement implies that Demetrius was a man of integrity, consistent in his walk, and worthy of trust and reception. He serves as a counter-example to Diotrephes and another positive model for Gaius to embrace.
Lessons for the Church Today
Despite its brevity, 3 John offers vital lessons for believers and the church in every age:
Conclusion
Third John is a powerful commendation of faithfulness, seen primarily in Gaius, and secondarily in Demetrius. It underscores that true faith is not merely intellectual assent but is demonstrated through practical love, especially in supporting those who preach the Gospel. Conversely, it exposes the destructive nature of pride, self-exaltation, and the rejection of truth and authority, as seen in Diotrephes. The Apostle John's message resonates deeply today, calling believers to walk in truth, to extend radical hospitality, and to discern between those who build up the body of Christ and those who tear it down. The enduring message of 3 John is a call to steadfast faithfulness, recognizing that our actions for Christ's name's sake are indeed a vital partnership in the eternal truth.