Author: The Apostle John.
Date: About A.D. 90.
Theme: The truth and hospitality of the believer.
The Third Epistle of John is the most personal of all the apostle’s writings. Like 2 John, it is addressed to an individual, Gaius, a beloved and faithful Christian who walked in the truth and showed generous hospitality to traveling ministers of the gospel. In contrast to 2 John, which warns against showing hospitality to false teachers, this letter commends the faithful support of those who labor in the truth.
The epistle also mentions Diotrephes, a proud and domineering man who resisted apostolic authority and refused to receive the brethren; and Demetrius, who is well spoken of by all and whose life reflects the truth.
The message of 3 John centers on the practical outworking of love and truth in Christian fellowship. It emphasizes:
- Walking in the truth (v. 3–4).
- Faithful support of true ministers (v. 5–8).
- The rejection of self-seeking leadership (v. 9–10).
- The commendation of those who live righteously (v. 11–12).
The key word is “truth”, which appears repeatedly and binds the letter to both 2 John and the Gospel of John. The book closes with a brief benediction and greeting, characteristic of John’s warm and personal style.
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