“This letter is from John, the elder. Iam writing to Gaius, my dear friend, whom I love in the truth. Dear friend, I hope all is well with you and that you are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit. Some of the traveling teachersrecently returned and made me very happy by telling me about your faithfulness and that you are living according to the truth. I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children are following the truth.”-3 John 1:1-4 New Living Translation
Gaius was a prominent Christian from one of the churches known by John. The apostle was writing him to thank him for the hospitality he had shown to the church leaders that had been traveling town to town. These individuals depend on such hospitality from their brethren. The purpose of these leaders was to aid in establishing new congregations in and around the region.
Gaius was commended, but also given a warning regarding those in the midst of congregations who would set themselves up as the church ‘boss’. Diotrephes was one such person in the church. Not only did him refuse to offer hospitality to traveling leaders, but he set himself up as the ‘head’ of the church. In the end his pride and arrogance disqualified him as a real leader that should be listened to or trusted. Church leaders were not and still are not to misuse their position of leadership to control what takes place within the church. This would be evidence that pride had entered into the heart of that leader. It can happen to anyone and is to be guarded against. Leaders must lead with a humble and selfless spirit to be successful in God’s economy.
John did not wish for Christian workers who served faithfully to become discouraged and as a result grow weary of serving. He felt it was imperative that they be encouraged to continue on that path for it was a needed ministry. Next we will look at how we are to care for the Lord’s workers. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!
Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.
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