About This Book
Third John, addressed to beloved Gaius, commends his faithfulness in showing hospitality to traveling missionaries while confronting Diotrephes who loves preeminence and refuses to welcome brothers. The elder writes to Gaius, whom he loves in truth, praying that he prospers and enjoys good health, just as his soul prospers. John rejoiced greatly when brothers came testifying to Gaius's faithfulness and how he walks in truth—no greater joy exists than hearing his children walk in truth. Gaius acts faithfully in whatever he does for the brothers, especially strangers who testified before the church about his love.
He does well to send them on their journey in a manner worthy of God, because they went out for the sake of the Name, accepting nothing from Gentiles. Therefore believers ought to support such people, becoming fellow workers for the truth. John wrote something to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves being first among them, doesn't acknowledge the apostle's authority. So when John comes, he'll bring up what Diotrephes is doing—talking wicked nonsense against them with malicious words.
Not satisfied with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers himself, stops those wanting to welcome them, and puts them out of the church. John urges Gaius not to imitate evil but good—whoever does good is from God; whoever does evil hasn't seen God. Demetrius receives good testimony from everyone, from the truth itself, and the apostles add their testimony, knowing it is true. Though having much to write, John doesn't want to write with pen and ink, hoping to see Gaius soon and talk face to face.
Peace be to you. The friends greet you. Greet the friends by name. This letter illustrates early church dynamics—faithful hospitality versus prideful authoritarianism, genuine leadership versus power-hungry control.