
3 John Introduction
The book of 3 John is a personal letter penned by the Apostle John, directed towards Gaius, a beloved member of the early Christian community. This epistle, the shortest in the New Testament, focuses on themes of hospitality, truth, and the proper treatment of itinerant Christian teachers. John commends Gaius for his faithfulness in supporting the work of the Gospel, contrasting his behavior with the problematic actions of Diotrephes, who opposes John's authority and rejects the visiting brethren. The letter underscores the importance of Christian hospitality and support for those who teach and propagate the truth.
Chapter 1
John opens his letter by warmly greeting Gaius, whom he loves in truth. He commends Gaius for walking in the truth and for his faithful work in providing hospitality to brothers and strangers alike. These actions affirm Gaius’s adherence to the Christian way of life, leading to John's joyous commendation that his spiritual children live in truth. John then discusses the opposition posed by Diotrephes, who refuses to acknowledge John’s authority and turns away missionaries. Contrarily, John highlights Demetrius as exemplary in character and faithful to the truth, deserving of emulation. The letter closes with John expressing a desire to visit and discuss matters further in person, reflecting the intimate and communal nature of early Christian relationships, and concludes with personal greetings and well-wishes.