The Third Epistle of John is the shortest book in the New Testament, yet it provides a compelling glimpse into the relational dynamics of early Christian communities. Written by "the elder," the letter is addressed to Gaius, a beloved individual praised for his commitment to the truth and his hospitality toward traveling messengers. It also highlights the challenges of dealing with self-serving leadership within the church.
Traditionally attributed to John the Apostle, 3 John reflects themes of love, truth, and mutual responsibility in community. The letter is directed to Gaius, who is commended for his sincere commitment to truth and hospitality toward traveling members of the Christ community while addressing concerns about a disruptive leader named Diotrephes. It also introduces Demetrius, a figure endorsed by the elder, possibly as a trustworthy bearer of the letter or as someone deserving of Gaius’s support.
Main Themes
Hospitality and Support for Traveling Community Members: The elder commends Gaius for his care toward itinerant members of the faith, showing that such hospitality advances the work of spreading Christ’s teachings. This collective responsibility builds partnership in their shared mission and demonstrates love in action.
Integrity and Living Truthfully: Gaius is celebrated for "walking according to the truth," highlighting the value of living authentically in alignment with Christ's teachings. His example serves as a model for others in the community.
Confronting Divisive Behavior: The letter contrasts Gaius’s commendable actions with the disruptive conduct of Diotrephes, who is criticized for prioritizing self-interest over communal well-being. This serves as a reminder of the harm caused by arrogance, hostility, and exclusionary leadership.
Structure
Greeting (Verse 1): The elder addresses Gaius affectionately, affirming their connection in truth and love.
Commendation of Gaius (Verses 2–8): Gaius is praised for his faithfulness and hospitality, with encouragement to continue supporting others in ways that honor God.
Critique of Diotrephes (Verses 9–10): The elder identifies Diotrephes’s self-serving behavior, exclusion of others from the community, and rejection of the authority the elder and of Christ who taught love and inclusion, signaling plans to address this issue directly.
Recommendation of Demetrius (Verse 12): Demetrius is introduced as a trustworthy individual, suggesting he may be a model for leadership or a recipient of Gaius’s hospitality.
Conclusion (Verses 13–15): The elder expresses a desire for face-to-face communication and closes with greetings, emphasizing the relational nature of the church.
Key Passages
Verse 4: "I have no joy more significant than to hear my children are walking according to the truth."
Verse 11: "Beloved, don’t imitate hostility but kindness instead. Whoever acts with kindness is from God. Whoever acts with hostility has not seen God."
Takeaways on Liberation and Inclusion
Liberation and inclusion resonate throughout 3 John:
Celebration of Belovedness: The elder’s address to Gaius as "Beloved" reinforces the inherent worth and dignity of every individual within the community.
Encouragement of Mutual Support: The call to support and hospitality for travelers fosters an environment of care and inclusion, ensuring that all members are valued and supported as an expression of the liberation, restoration, and well-being that are the cornerstones of Christ’s triumphant message.
Rejection of Harmful Leadership: The critique of Diotrephes’s domineering behavior reflects a rejection of domination and exclusion, advocating for leadership that serves and empowers others.