WHO WROTE IT?: The Apostle John
WHY WAS IT WRITTEN?: This letter was written to commend a brother in Christ, who John knows, for his hospitality and to encourage him in his Christian life.
WHEN WAS IT WRITTEN?: This letter was written around AD 90 from Ephesus.
WHO WAS IT FOR?: Gaius, a prominent Christian who attended one of the churches known by John.
Church leaders traveled from town to town working to establish new congregations. These leaders counted on the hospitality of fellow believers to provide housing, and meals. Gaius was one of the people who welcomed these leaders into his home.
How we treat others reflects our true values; in other words, what’s really important to us. We need to ask ourselves the following question: Do we see people as mere objects or inconveniences, or as unique creations of a loving God?
For Gaius, hospitality was important to him. Because of his attitude toward the brethren, he had gained a solid reputation thanks to his personal lifestyle. John’s brief letter centers around three men; Diotrephes, who was a self-proclaimed church leader who did not reflect God’s values in any way. He was in it for personal gain and the accolades that come with being a leader. Then there was Demetrius, who followed God’s truth and the afore mentioned Gaius, who always did what was right as he walked in the truth.
It is imperative that we determine to reflect Christ’s values in our relationships, opening up our homes for fellowship, prayer meetings or bible studies, with the purpose of touching others with God’s love.
DIOTREPHES - All we know about this man is that he wanted to control the church. John denounced 4 areas of his life: 1) his refusal to have anything to do with other spiritual leaders, 2) his slander of those leaders, 3) his bad example in refusing to welcome any teachers, and 4) his attempt to excommunicate those who opposed his leadership. Diotrephes was an example of a bad leader; full of pride, jealousy, and slander.
While 2nd John emphasizes the need to refuse hospitality to false teachers, 3rd John urges the brethren to continue offering hospitality to those who teach the truth. This is an important way for them to show support for these traveling teachers of the true Gospel. Today we can show hospitality to God’s workers in various ways. It could come in the form of a letter of encouragement, a gift, financial support, opening up your home or praying for them.
Next up we shall look at the Mega Themes found in John’s 3rd letter. Until then walk with the King and be a blessing. “Peace be with you.” (3 John 1:15a)
In His Name & for His Glory,
Richard Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
Source: The Life Application Study Bible
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