In 3 John Chapter 1, John wrote to his close friend, Gaius, to commend him about his faith and to update him about some of the things happening at other churches.

John Praises Gaius

In the opening of the letter, John praised his good friend, Gaius, and mentioned that he was pleased to hear members of the flock tell him that Gaius’ faith in the Lord was unmistakable. John noted that nothing brought him more joy in life than when he hears that his brethren are awaking more and more to the truth about God.

Showing Charity to Other Believers

John noted in 3 John Chapter 1 that Gaius treated all men and women as brothers and sisters. His teachings were open to all and he showed them great love by welcoming them into his church. John also mentioned that the pagans were not as helpful at all to these people when they came for help. Gaius adhered to John’s belief that Christians should show charity to all in order to form a community and work together with one another for the greater good of the world.

Issues with Diotrephes

John had written a letter to a church, but Diotrephes, the man in charge of that church, and a man that honored himself above all, would not issue any welcoming to the people. Diotrephes had also slandered John and his followers by spreading malicious rumors and untruths. He barred many believers from entering his church and would not allow others to help them either.

Imitating What is Good

John told Gaius to only imitate what is good and not those things that are evil. Any person that does good is a person of God. Those committing acts of evil and wickedness are not from God. Demetrius was a man that was spoken well of and John said it was best to speak well of such a good man, too. John ended the chapter by noting that he looked forward to the day when he could speak with Gaius face to face.

3 John 1 (King James Version)

1 The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth.

2 Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.

3 For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth.

4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.

5 Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers;

6 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:

7 Because that for his name’s sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.

8 We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.

9 I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not.

10 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.

11 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.

12 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.

13 I had many things to write, but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee:

14 But I trust I shall shortly see thee, and we shall speak face to face. Peace be to thee. Our friends salute thee. Greet the friends by name.