3 John

Greetings and good morning (at least it's morning now),

As natural as it was to go from 1 John to 2 John, motating to 3 John was effortless. And I'm glad I did. 3 John offers the same personal, loving touch that we have seen from the previous two epistles. But while 2 John warns about the dangers of welcoming (and by default approving) of the ministry of false teachers, the outline themes for 3 John are Walking in the truth, Welcoming workers, Wayward leader.

The memory passage is:
3 John 4,8,9 (ESV)
4I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
8Therefore we ought to support people like these, that we may be fellow workers for the truth.
9I have written something to the church, but Diotrephes, who likes to put himself first, does not acknowledge our authority.

This letter is addressed specifically to an individual, Gaius, whom John knows well and loves in the truth of the Gospel. He rejoiced greatly at the testimony (by the brothers) that Gaius (one of his 'children') was walking in the truth. Verse 4 is an oft used sentiment, often used by parents of children, to express the joy of seeing their children following Christ. The context here may not be specifically regarding true offspring (rather 'spiritual children' who have come to Christ under your ministry) but the joy is same for both biological parents and spiritual parents.

The second section deals with the issue of Welcoming Workers who are traveling around for the sake of the Gospel. Even though they are strangers (5) they should be treated honorably and hospitably for the sake of their mission; the ministry of the Word and Truth of Christ. By helping these traveling workers (no doubt more common in that day), John encouraged the church that they were partnering (fellowing) with them in ministry.

The third section (Wayward Leader) deals with an individual in the church who opposed John and his authority. Diotrephes, whom John characterizes as a selfish, self-proclaimed authority, has rejected (by not welcoming the traveling ministers) and even slandered the message of John (and possibly suppressed a previous letter?). John makes it clear that he intends to confront this contentious individual on his next visit. He then implores Gaius to imitate what is good and true and not what is evil. By this it is known if someone is from God or not.

Then, in a sort of ancient reference letter, John commends Demetrius (possibly the bearer of this letter) and testifies to his worthiness. What a perfect test to see whether this particular church will respond to his message of hospitality.

John ends this epistle in much the same way he ended 2 John; 'I have more to write, but I'd rather come see you in person. Peace and greetings to you all from me and the friends here'.

How do I know God more through this letter?
What a terrific glimpse into the very personal foundation of the early church. John writes this letter to a dear friend (and possibly host or leader of a church) to encourage him, warn him, and bless him. That God preserved this little letter to be included in the canon of Scriptures is truly a blessing to all of us. John's joy, expressed in v4, is so accessible to us today. Anyone who has children walking with the Lord, or who have had a part in bringing someone to Christ can immediately identify with his heart; indeed there would seem to be no greater joy (short of our joy in Him). I see God's heart drawing His own closer to Him while warning (and teaching) them how to handle those who are opposed to His truth. In this short letter, we see His holy grace, mercy and jealousy at work in the Body.

Peace be to you, friends,

Ethan