3 John

The Book of 3 John is the shortest book in the Bible by word count. Written by the Apostle John (referring to himself as "the elder"), it is a private letter addressed to his friend and fellow believer, Gaius.

The letter is a deeply personal snapshot of the internal politics and challenges facing the early church, focusing on the correct way to treat traveling Christian workers and the dangers of internal, self-serving leadership.

I. Commendation of Gaius: The Walk of Truth (Verses 1–8)

Paul begins by expressing his deep affection and praise for Gaius, whose spiritual health is evident in his actions.

• A Prayer for Prosperity: John expresses his wish that Gaius would “prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” (3 John 2) This prayer connects spiritual well-being with physical and material well-being, but emphasizes that the prosperity of his soul is paramount.

• Walking in Truth: John commends Gaius for his commitment to the "truth," meaning his faithfulness to the Gospel message. His life is characterized by integrity and right living.

• The Model of Hospitality: The primary praise for Gaius is his hospitality toward the traveling missionaries, or “brothers”, especially those whom he had never met before (3 John 5). John notes that these missionaries travel “for the sake of the name” (Christ's name) and accept nothing from unbelievers. By supporting these traveling evangelists, Gaius is showing true fellowship with their work and actively contributing to the spread of the Gospel.

II. Condemnation of Diotrephes: The Sin of Pride (Verses 9–10)

In stark contrast to Gaius, John condemns a power-hungry leader within the church named Diotrephes.

• A Self-Centered Leader: Diotrephes is guilty of three destructive actions that violate the spirit of Christ:

  1. He “loves to be first” (3 John 9) and proudly rejects the authority of the apostles, including John.

  2. He refuses to receive the traveling brothers, thereby hindering the Gospel's spread.

  3. He actively tries to put people out of the church who do want to show hospitality to the missionaries.

• A Public Rebuke: John promises that when he arrives, he will address these destructive deeds publicly. Diotrephes serves as a powerful warning against the sin of self-exaltation and dictatorial control within the church.

III. The Example of Demetrius and Final Encouragement (Verses 11–15)

John provides a final example of virtue and concludes the letter.

• Follow Good, Not Evil: John urges Gaius (and all believers) to “not imitate evil but imitate good.” Anyone who practices good is of God, and anyone who practices evil has “not seen God.”

• The Good Testimony: John holds up Demetrius as a man who has a “good testimony from everyone and from the truth itself.” Demetrius stands in contrast to Diotrephes as an example of humble, effective ministry.

• The Hope of Meeting: The letter concludes as a simple message of encouragement, with John expressing his desire to speak with Gaius face-to-face soon, rather than writing more details.

Applying the Truth Today

3 John reminds us that the most significant test of our faith often comes down to our attitudes toward God's workers and our own humility within the church. It challenges us to actively support those who teach the truth, recognizing that contributing to their material needs is participating in their spiritual work. It gives a sharp warning against selfish ambition and prideful control in spiritual leadership, assuring us that genuine character is demonstrated by good deeds and humble service, not dictatorial power.

Reflection Questions for Your Journey:

1. Hospitality and Support. In what practical way can you, like Gaius, show hospitality or financial support to those who are laboring “for the sake of the name” (missionaries, pastors, evangelists) this week?

2. Imitating Good. Diotrephes imitated evil, and Demetrius imitated good. What is one specific "good deed" or character trait you will commit to imitating this week to show that you are “of God”?

3. The Love of Being First. Do you ever recognize the impulse to “love to be first” (3 John 9) in your own heart—to have the last word, to be recognized, or to control a situation? What practical steps can you take to cultivate the humble service of Christ?

Your Reading Guide

To grasp the essential conflict, read the condemnation of proud ambition in 3 John 9–10. Next, read the high commendation of hospitality and truth in 3 John 3–8. Finally, read the simple but profound ethical mandate in 3 John 11.