3 John Introduction

The book of 3 John is a personal letter written by the Apostle John to Gaius, a beloved believer in the early Christian church. This is the shortest book in the New Testament, but it gives an important lesson about truth, hospitality, and supporting those who work for the gospel. John praises Gaius because he is walking in the truth and faithfully helping travelling Christian teachers. Gaius showed love by welcoming and supporting those who were spreading the message of Christ. John contrasts Gaius with Diotrephes, who was proud, rejected John’s authority, and refused to receive the brethren. The letter also mentions Demetrius as a good example, someone who had a good testimony and lived according to the truth. Overall, 3 John teaches that true believers should support faithful workers, walk in truth, show hospitality, and avoid prideful or controlling behaviour in the church.

Chapter 1
John begins by warmly greeting Gaius, whom he loves in the truth. He prays that Gaius may prosper and be in health, just as his soul prospers, showing John’s care for both his spiritual and physical well-being. John rejoices because Gaius is walking in the truth, meaning he is living faithfully according to the gospel. Gaius also shows his faith through hospitality, helping both known brethren and travelling Christian workers who are strangers to him. This support helps the work of the gospel move forward. John then warns about Diotrephes, who loves to have the highest position, rejects John’s authority, speaks evil against him, and refuses to receive the brethren. This shows the danger of pride and control in the church. In contrast, John commends Demetrius, who has a good testimony from everyone and from the truth itself. John ends the letter by saying he hopes to visit soon and speak face to face, and he closes with peace and personal greetings, showing the close fellowship among early believers.