Hospitality consistent with truth
3 John 1:1–8FocusSupporting faithful workers
Connection to the wholeGaius' reception and support of brethren are commended as practical participation in the truth.
interpretation 3 John 1:11
KJVBeloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.
Read it in context
Imitate the good
Start reading at 3 John 1:9 (3 John 1:9 to 3 John 1:12).
An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
Diotrephes' conduct supplies a warning, while the testimony about Demetrius gives a positive contrast.
- 1:9 I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not.
- 1:10 Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church.
- 1:11 Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.
- 1:12 Demetrius hath good report of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, and we also bear record; and ye know that our record is true.
Who
- Who wrote the book? John is the traditional author; the letter's writer identifies himself as the elder. Biblical references: 3 John 1:1. Historical source: Anchor Bible Dictionary, John, Epistles of. traditionally held
- Who was present or being addressed in this passage? In the surrounding chapter context (3 John 1:1–1:14): The elder addresses Gaius about hospitality to traveling brethren, contrasts Diotrephes' conduct, and commends Demetrius. stated in the text
- Who was the book written to? Gaius, a beloved Christian praised for walking in truth and supporting visiting brethren. Biblical references: 3 John 1:1; 3 John 1:5. stated in the text
What
- What is the topic of this reading unit? Imitate the good. Read 3 John 1:9 through 3 John 1:12 as a connected unit. interpretation
- How does it contribute to the book? Diotrephes' conduct supplies a warning, while the testimony about Demetrius gives a positive contrast. interpretation
When
- When are the events or message set? The elder addresses a current situation involving hospitality, resistance, and an intended visit. The letter does not give a date. book background
Where
- What is the book’s geographic setting? Gaius is addressed; no city of destination or writing is stated. book background
- Where does the context start? This passage sits in Imitate the good (3 John 1:9 to 3 John 1:12). Start reading at 3 John 1:9. An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
How
- How does this book connect with Jesus Christ? The workers go forth for the Name, and supporting their faithful work is described as fellowship with the truth. This is the letter's setting for conduct within Christian service. See 3 John 1:7, 3 John 1:8, 3 John 1:11. interpretation
- How should this book guide our response? Support faithful service and imitate what is good. Reject the controlling and exclusionary conduct attributed to Diotrephes rather than equating influence with spiritual authority. interpretation
Cited: 3 John 1:9, 3 John 1:12, 3 John 1:7, 3 John 1:8, 3 John 1:11
Who wrote it, and how we know
John the apostle
From early tradition
What Scripture saysThe writer identifies himself only as the elder.
3 John 1:1
Early traditionEarly testimony names John the apostle.
What is debatedThe title elder is not a personal name.
Related passages
- follow Exod 23:2 Ps 37:27 Prov 12:11 Isa 1:16-17 John 10:27 John 12:26 1 Cor 4:16 1 Cor 11:1
- He that doeth good 1 Pet 3:11 1 John 2:29 1 John 3:6-9
- he that doeth evil John 3:20
Cross references from CrossReferences-org (CC BY 4.0).
Macro-Structure
See how this passage fits the chapter and the book.
3 John 1
The elder addresses Gaius, commending his walk in truth and support for travelling brethren. The letter contrasts faithful hospitality with Diotrephes' rejection of others and desire for preeminence.
3 John 1:1 3 John 1:3 3 John 1:5 3 John 1:9
FocusLeadership and trustworthy testimony
Connection to the wholeDiotrephes' conduct supplies a warning, while the testimony about Demetrius gives a positive contrast.
interpretation A visit anticipated
3 John 1:13–14FocusPeace and friendship
Connection to the wholeThe closing desire for a personal meeting completes the letter's concern for concrete fellowship rather than mere profession.
interpretation Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.
3 John
The elder addresses Gaius, commending his walk in truth and support for travelling brethren. The letter contrasts faithful hospitality with Diotrephes' rejection of others and desire for preeminence.
3 John 1:1 3 John 1:3 3 John 1:5 3 John 1:9
Gaius commended
3 John 1:1–8FocusTruth and hospitality
Connection to the wholeThe elder rejoices in Gaius' faithful conduct and urges continued support for brethren who go forth for the name's sake.
interpretation FocusDiotrephes and Demetrius
Connection to the wholeThe conduct of Diotrephes is exposed, and the appeal to imitate good is joined to testimony concerning Demetrius.
interpretation Closing plans and greetings
3 John 1:13–14FocusPersonal fellowship
Connection to the wholeThe writer's hope to meet Gaius places the matters in the letter within continuing friendship and care.
interpretation Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.