3 John

About this book

Third John is the shortest book in the New Testament by word count, and the only one written mainly about a church conflict between named individuals. The elder writes to Gaius, a beloved friend, praising him for walking in the truth and for welcoming traveling Christian workers who depended on hospitality. He reminds Gaius that supporting such people makes him a partner in their work. He then names two men. Diotrephes, who loves to be first, refuses to receive the elder's messengers and even pushes out those who would welcome them. Demetrius, by contrast, has a good reputation with everyone. The letter is a small window into an early church network where authority, generosity and pride were already tested. It also stands beside 2 John, which urges caution toward false teachers, by showing the other side: warm welcome for faithful ones. Like the neighboring letter, it ends with a hope to visit in person and with greetings between friends.

Author

The elder, traditionally identified with John the apostle; some scholars suggest another leader in the same circle.

Date

Usually placed late in the first century, c. AD 85–95, close to 2 John.

Audience

Gaius, a faithful Christian friend of the elder, probably in Asia Minor.

Themes

Outline

1. 1:1–1:4Greeting and joy in Gaius's faithfulness
2. 1:5–1:8Support for traveling workers
3. 1:9–1:12Diotrephes and Demetrius
4. 1:13–1:14Closing and greetings

Key verses