3 John
Summary
John writes to his "beloved Gaius," expressing joy over Gaius's faithfulness and his hospitality toward the "brothers and strangers" who go out for the sake of the Name. He contrasts Gaius's godly character with that of Diotrephes, who "loves to have the preeminence" and maliciously refuses to receive the apostles or their letters. John encourages Gaius not to follow evil but to follow good, citing Demetrius as a positive example who has a "good report" from all. He concludes with a desire to see Gaius shortly and to speak "face to face."
The elder to the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth.
Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers.
For I rejoiced greatly, when the brothers came and testified of the truth that is in you, even as you walk in the truth.
I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.
Beloved, you do faithfully whatever you do to the brothers, and to strangers;
Who have borne witness of your love before the church: whom if you bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, you shall do well:
Because that for His name’s sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.
We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.
I wrote to the church: but Diotrephes, who loves to have the preeminence among them, receives us not.
Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he does, talking against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither does he himself receive the brothers, and forbids those who would, and casts them out of the church.
Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He who does good is of God: but he who does evil has not seen God.
Demetrius has a good report of all people, and of the truth itself: yes, and we also bear record; and you know that our record is true.
I had many things to write, but I will not with ink and pen write to you:
But I trust I shall shortly see you, and we shall speak face to face. Peace be to you. Our friends greet you. Greet the friends by name.