3 John: The Letter to Gaius
Text: 3 John 1–14
Introduction (Verses 1–2)
“The elder, To my dear friend Gaius, whom I love in the truth. Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.”
This short letter is deeply personal, similar to 2 John. While 2 John was addressed to “The Lady,” 3 John is written to Gaius—a beloved friend. Interestingly, “Gaius” was a common name in Roman times (Chosen fans may recognize this name as the centurion assigned to Matthew).
John’s greeting includes a prayer for Gaius’ health and success, reflecting a deeper truth: the health of one’s soul matters most. A thriving soul comes from a vibrant spiritual life.
I. The Believer’s Relationship to Truth (Verses 3–4)
“It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”
John finds joy in Gaius’ consistent walk in truth. What is truth? God’s Word is truth. The Gospel is truth. Jesus is truth. Gaius models the kind of faithful living all believers should pursue.
II. The Believer’s Relationship to Other Christians (Verses 5–8)
A. Ministering to One Another (v. 5)
“Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters, even though they are strangers to you.”
In a time without modern hospitality services, Christians depended on the kindness of others. Gaius’ support of traveling believers showed true hospitality.
Biblical support:
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Romans 12:13: “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”
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Hebrews 13:2: “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”
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1 Peter 4:9: “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.”
Reflection:
Grumbling reveals a reluctant heart, often rooted in pride. True hospitality is cheerful, sacrificial, and encouraging.
B. Being Known for Love (v. 6)
“They have told the church about your love. Please send them on their way in a manner that honors God.”
Gaius’ love was evident and recognized by others. This should be our goal: to have a reputation for godly love.
C. Working Together for the Truth (vv. 7–8)
“It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans. We ought therefore to show hospitality to such people so that we may work together for the truth.”
John emphasizes unity and cooperation. It’s not about competition in ministry but collaboration.
Example: In sports, the selfish star hurts the team. The humble team player lifts others up. Gaius is a great teammate. What kind are you?
III. The Believer’s Relationship to Good and Evil (Verses 9–12)
A. Diotrephes: A Warning (vv. 9–11)
“Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not welcome us… spreading malicious nonsense… refuses to welcome other believers… do not imitate what is evil but what is good.”
Diotrephes represents prideful, divisive leadership—rooted in the desire to be “first.” His behavior includes rejecting authority, gossip, and exclusion of others.
Key point:
Pride leads to sin. The fall of Satan, Adam, and many others began with pride. Diotrephes’ need to elevate himself caused harm to the body.
B. Demetrius: A Role Model (v. 12)
“Demetrius is well spoken of by everyone—and even by the truth itself.”
Demetrius is an example of godliness:
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He has a strong testimony.
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He aligns with the truth.
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He’s respected by leadership.
Be like Demetrius.
IV. Conclusion (Verses 13–14)
“I have much to write you, but I do not want to do so with pen and ink. I hope to see you soon, and we will talk face to face.”
John ends with warmth, friendship, and a personal touch.
Final Reflection
If you’re like Gaius or Demetrius—praise God, keep going! But how much Diotrephes is in you?
Pride is subtle but deadly. It drives comparison, self-importance, and division.
Even John, as a younger man, once asked to be first (along with his brother James). But he learned humility and now teaches it.
Paul’s words are a sobering reminder:
“O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?” (Romans 7:24)
If we understand our own sin, we won’t compare ourselves to others—we will fall to our knees in humility.
Jesus, the only perfect man, washed the feet of His disciples. That’s true greatness.
“To be the greatest, you must be servant of all.”
Discussion Questions
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What does Gaius’ life teach us about walking in the truth and showing hospitality?
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Why is grumbling such a dangerous threat to Christian community?
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How can we ensure we are acting more like Demetrius than Diotrephes in our churches and relationships?
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In what ways does pride show up subtly in our desire to “be first,” even in ministry?
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How can we cultivate the humility of Christ in our daily lives and interactions?