3 John

3 John is an epistle written by the Apostle John in the 90’s A.D. Along with 2 John, this book is in a standard ancient letter format. 3 John is the shortest book in the NT. John addressed the letter to Gaius, a leader of a local church he likely helped establish. He also called out Diotrephes, who did not accept John and mistreated other believers. Lastly, he spoke well about Demetrius, who was a good example to all. This book is the only one in the NT that does not mention Christ by name.

Gaius had good spiritual health, and John wished him good physical health also. Gaius was faithful and continued to walk in the truth (verse 3). This gave John great joy (verse 4). Gaius showed hospitality and love to the missionaries who had gone out to correct false teachers (verses 5-8).

Diotrephes, who was a church leader, loved to be first. He wanted nothing to do with John (verse 9). He gossiped maliciously about him, refused to accept the missionaries, and excommunicated those who wanted to help them (verse 10). John planned on confronting him when he visited.

Demetrius was well spoken of by everyone, including John, and the truth itself (verse 12). It is obvious from the context that John is hinting that Diotrephes is acting in an evil way, and Demetrius does what is good. John’s testimony is true. John wanted to visit soon to speak with Gaius and to deal with the problems. He closed the letter with a greeting.