Diotrephes the Dictator in 3 John 1

Read 3 John Chapter 1

Introduction: 3 John 1 is a personal letter written by the Apostle John, traditionally known as the “beloved disciple” of Jesus Christ. This short book, only a single chapter, is directed towards a faithful believer named Gaius. In this epistle, John emphasizes the importance of hospitality, love, and support for those who work for the truth. He contrasts the godly example of Gaius with the uncharitable behavior of a church leader, Diotrephes, and commends another, Demetrius, for his good testimony. By examining this epistle verse by verse, we can draw insights into Christian conduct, the role of church leadership, and the value of walking in truth.

I. Greeting to Gaius (3 John 1:1-4)
John begins his letter by addressing Gaius, whom he affectionately calls “the beloved,” showing the strong bond of Christian love between them (3 John 1:1). He prays for Gaius’s health and prosperity, just as his soul prospers (3 John 1:2). John expresses great joy in hearing that Gaius walks in truth, which is a central theme of the letter (3 John 1:3-4). This reflects Jesus’ teaching that His followers should be known by their love and adherence to the truth (John 13:34-35, John 8:31-32).

II. Commendation of Gaius’s Hospitality (3 John 1:5-8)
John praises Gaius for his faithful work and hospitality towards fellow believers, even strangers (3 John 1:5). This act of kindness is foundational to Christian practice, as emphasized in Hebrews 13:2 and Matthew 25:35. John notes that Gaius’s hospitality helped those who were traveling for the sake of the Name (3 John 1:7), and that such support is worthy as it contributes to the shared mission of spreading the Gospel (3 John 1:8).

III. Condemnation of Diotrephes’s Actions (3 John 1:9-11)
In these verses, John rebukes Diotrephes for his prideful behavior, refusal to acknowledge John’s authority, and for spreading malicious gossip (3 John 1:9-10). Diotrephes’s actions run contrary to the model of servant leadership Jesus outlined in Mark 9:35 and the warnings against causing division found in Romans 16:17. John encourages Gaius to not imitate evil but good, highlighting that followers of God exhibit goodness (3 John 1:11).

IV. Testimony About Demetrius (3 John 1:12)
Contrasting Diotrephes, Demetrius is presented as an example of a good report, recognized by everyone and even by the truth itself (3 John 1:12). His reputation aligns with the characteristics of a faithful servant as described in 1 Timothy 3:7 and Acts 16:2.

V. Final Remarks and Farewell (3 John 1:13-15)
John concludes the letter expressing his desire to visit Gaius and discuss matters in person, rather than through writing (3 John 1:13-14). He closes with a blessing of peace and greetings from friends, fostering a sense of Christian fellowship and community (3 John 1:15), as seen in Romans 16:16 and 1 Corinthians 16:20.

Conclusion: The epistle of 3 John teaches us about the importance of love, truth, and hospitality within the Christian community. John lovingly corrects and instructs, showing the balance between encouragement and accountability. He praises Gaius for his hospitality, rebukes Diotrephes for his divisive behavior, and commends Demetrius for his good reputation. These personal interactions encapsulate the essence of Christian living—walking in truth, loving one another, and supporting those who labor for the Gospel. This letter serves as an inspirational guide for believers to follow John’s exhortations, to uphold what is good, and to strive for unity and love within the body of Christ.