The Message of the Third Epistle of John

The Third Epistle of John is the shortest book in the New Testament, yet it conveys a powerful message about truth, love, hospitality, and spiritual maturity within the Christian community. Here are the key points of its message:

📖 1. The Importance of Truth and Spiritual Growth

John begins the letter with affectionate words addressed to Gaius, a faithful believer. He emphasizes how deeply he rejoices that Gaius is walking in the truth:

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” (Verse 4)

➡️ Core message: A life lived in alignment with God’s truth brings the greatest joy to a spiritual leader.
➡️ John doesn’t praise knowledge alone, but truth that is lived out.

🫂 2. Hospitality as an Expression of Love

Gaius is praised for showing hospitality to fellow believers and to traveling missionaries — a sign of practical Christian love.

“You are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters, even though they are strangers to you.” (Verse 5)

➡️ Christian love reveals itself in concrete action, especially toward those serving the Gospel.
➡️ John urges the church to support such people honorably, for they labor “for the sake of the Name.”

🚫 3. A Warning Against Abuse of Power and Pride

John criticizes Diotrephes, a member of the church who elevates himself above others, abuses authority, rejects apostolic leadership, and even refuses hospitality.

“Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not welcome us.” (Verse 9)

➡️ Warning: There must be no room for pride, power-seeking, or exclusion within the church.
➡️ John announces he will publicly address this behavior when he comes.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 4. A Positive Example: Demetrius

In contrast to Diotrephes, Demetrius is praised — a man with a good reputation who is well spoken of by everyone and by the truth itself.

➡️ Role models matter: Those who live in harmony with God’s truth are to be respected and affirmed in the church.

✉️ 5. Personal and Heartfelt Communication

John concludes the letter with the desire to speak to the recipients in person, highlighting the value of relationship:

“I have much to write to you, but I do not want to do so with pen and ink. I hope to see you soon.” (Verses 13–14)

➡️ Spiritual fellowship thrives on personal interaction and genuine closeness.

✅ In Summary: The Message of 3 John

• Truth must be lived — not just known.

• Hospitality is a vital expression of Christian love.

• Pride and abuse of authority have no place in the church.

• Good examples are important and should be highlighted.

• Personal fellowship is precious and worth nurturing.

March 24, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 3 Johannes Chapter 1

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.

King James Version. Public Domain

Commentary

🟦 Introduction

The Third Epistle of John is a short, very personal letter from the Apostle John to a man named Gaius. Though the letter consists of only one chapter, it conveys powerful spiritual principles that are relevant for every church and every believer — then and now. It speaks about truth, faithfulness, hospitality, warnings against pride, and the importance of good role models. In a time of internal tensions within the church, John speaks with clarity — in love, but also with conviction.

🟨 Commentary

1.Greeting and Wish for Gaius (Verses 1–2)
John lovingly addresses Gaius as “the beloved” whom he “loves in the truth.”
He wishes him both physical well-being and spiritual prosperity.
Notably, John places great importance on the condition of the soul.

2.Praise for Gaius’ Truth and Faithfulness (Verses 3–4)
Gaius is praised for walking in the truth, not just believing in it.
Brothers have reported positively about his lifestyle.
John says there is no greater joy than knowing his “children” walk in the truth.

3.Hospitality as Practical Love (Verses 5–8)
Gaius is commended for his faithful hospitality toward traveling preachers.
These missionaries accepted nothing from the Gentiles — they depended on the support of believers.
Whoever welcomes such people becomes a “fellow worker for the truth” — a partner in God’s work.

4.Warning About Diotrephes – Abuse of Power in the Church (Verses 9–10)
Diotrephes is described as someone who seeks to elevate himself.
He rejects John’s authority, speaks maliciously, refuses hospitality, and even expels others from the church.
John announces that he will confront this behavior openly when he visits.

5.Encouragement to Do Good – The Example of Demetrius (Verses 11–12)
John calls believers to imitate what is good — a mark of true relationship with God.
Demetrius is described as a man with a good testimony — even “the truth itself” speaks on his behalf.
John confirms his recommendation with personal affirmation.

6.Final Words – The Desire for Personal Contact (Verses 13–15)
John chooses not to write more but expresses a desire for personal encounter.
He ends with a blessing of peace and a greeting of mutual friendship.

🟩 Summary

The Third Epistle of John is a call to live out the truth, to practice love through action, and to honor God-given order within the church.

• Gaius represents faithfulness, love, and truth.

• Diotrephes is a warning against pride, ambition, and division.

• Demetrius stands for a good example in the faith.

  John makes it clear: Not words, but the lived-out gospel is what matters.

🟥 Message for Us Today

The message of 3 John is deeply relevant today:

• Faith must be lived out

  → Our lives should reflect God’s truth — visibly and consistently.

• Hospitality is a spiritual ministry

  → It’s not just about opening doors, but about opening hearts — for fellow believers and God’s mission.

• The Church needs humility, not control

  → The desire for power destroys fellowship. Christ alone is the head.

• Good role models strengthen the faith

  → We need people like Demetrius — shining with love, truth, and integrity.

• Relationships matter more than programs

  → John longs for face-to-face connection. True community is still a treasure today.

Question for reflection:
Are we like Gaius — faithful, hospitable, living in truth?
Or do we carry traces of Diotrephes in us?
Do we follow what is good — or cling to pride?

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 10—A Knowledge of God
Read online here

Commentary

🟦 Introduction

Chapter 10 is a profound call to recognize God’s nature, actions, and love in creation, in His Word, and in our own lives. Creation, the Word of God, and the influence of the Holy Spirit are three central ways in which God connects with us. This reflection invites us to contemplate God’s glory and to know Him more deeply.

🟨 Commentary

1.God Reveals Himself in Nature
Nature constantly speaks of its Creator. Whoever has an open heart and a listening ear can hear the voice of God in creation. Jesus’ parables drawn from nature show how closely heaven and earth are connected. Nature is not only meant to be admired but also to be a teacher and a mediator between God and humanity.

2.God’s Care Is All-Encompassing
From the universe to the sparrow, from the palace to the simplest meal – God’s gaze rests on everyone. This all-embracing love is meant to free us from fear and lead us into deep peace.

3.The Glory to Come
The beauty we now see is only a faint reflection of what God has prepared for those who love Him. The hope of a world without sin and death brings comfort and perspective.

4.The Bible as a Source of Knowledge
God speaks to us through His Word. In it, Christ is revealed. The Holy Spirit helps us to understand these truths. Scripture is clear, accessible, and intended for everyone. But it is not surface reading, rather deep study that brings true understanding.

5.The Effect of the Word on Our Lives
Just as natural food strengthens the body, the Word of God strengthens our spiritual life. Meditation, prayer, and the Holy Spirit work together to transform our character and make us more like Christ.

🟩 Summary

God reveals Himself in many ways – through nature, through His Word, and through the Holy Spirit. Those who are willing to listen will recognize His voice. The Bible is the clearest expression of His will. Only through deep study, prayer, and humility can we truly grasp God’s nature. His love is evident in His care for both the smallest and the greatest. Reflecting on these truths leads to the transformation of our hearts.

🟥 Message for Us Today

• Be attentive to God’s voice in nature and in everyday life.

• Take time for God’s Word and study it with dedication.

• Ask the Holy Spirit for understanding and guidance.

• Let God’s care comfort and guide you.

• Live with your eyes fixed on the glory to come.

God’s knowledge is not secret wisdom but an invitation to relationship.
Whoever seeks will find. Whoever listens will understand. And whoever believes will be transformed.

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