The book of 3 John is a short epistle written by the Apostle John to Gaius, commending him for his hospitality towards traveling preachers who came to share the Gospel. John praises Gaius for his faithfulness and encourages him to continue supporting God’s work. However, John also addresses Diotrephes, a church leader who refuses to welcome the traveling preachers and stirs up trouble within the congregation. John warns about Diotrephes’ harmful behavior and urges Gaius to not imitate it. The key themes of 3 John include the importance of hospitality, support for fellow believers in spreading the Gospel, and the contrast between genuine faithfulness and selfish ambition.
Book of 3 John
3 John is a short letter emphasizing hospitality, truth, and support for missionaries within the early church.
Chapters in Book of 3 John
Summary of the Book of 3 John
F.A.Q. for the Book of 3 John
What is the primary purpose of the book of 3 John?
3 John is a brief, personal letter written by the Apostle John. The primary purpose of this epistle is to commend Gaius for his faithfulness and hospitality, and to address issues concerning support for traveling missionaries.
John emphasizes the importance of walking in the truth and supporting those who work for the truth. He counters this pastoral care by warning against the behavior of Diotrephes, who opposes John’s authority and refuses to welcome the brothers, thereby highlighting the contrast between proper Christian behavior and self-serving leadership.
How does 3 John 1:4 demonstrate John's pastoral heart and relationship with Gaius?
3 John 1:4 states, ‘I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.’ This verse reveals John’s deep pastoral heart and his personal relationship with Gaius.
Here, John express his profound joy upon hearing that those under his spiritual care, such as Gaius, are living in accordance with Christian principles. It underscores the relational aspect of John’s ministry, emphasizing his investment in the spiritual growth and well-being of his community. This statement also reflects the broader theme in Johannine writings, where truth and adherence to it are paramount to the Christian life.
What does 3 John teach about the concept of hospitality within the early Christian church?
3 John highlights the significance of hospitality within the early Christian community. Verses 5-8 praise Gaius for his hospitality: ‘Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters, even though they are strangers to you.’
This passage underscores the practice of showing hospitality to traveling missionaries and suggests that such hospitality is a vital expression of faith and support for the gospel. By commending Gaius, John illustrates the importance of mutual support and community care within the church, where members play active roles in advancing the mission and caring for one another.
Conversely, John criticizes Diotrephes for his lack of hospitality and opposition to John’s authority. This condemnation serves as a warning and a lesson regarding the disruptive potential of self-centered leadership opposed to the collective efforts and solidarity of the Christian mission.