3 John

Author: John
Type of Book: General Epistle
Date of Writing: AD 96
Theme: Walk in truth

The third epistle of John was probably written in the late AD 90s, perhaps a little later than John's other two epistles. Some scholars believe John wrote this third epistle after he wrote the book of Revelation. The first epistle of John emphasized fellowship and love. The second epistle of John warned against those who were teaching false doctrine and encouraged discernment. His third epistle now addresses more personal concerns within the church.

John directed this letter to Gaius. Several Gaiuses are mentioned in the New Testament; however, it is generally believed that this one is not mentioned anywhere else. We know nothing about him other than what we read here. He was apparently a pastor of one of the churches John was familiar with.

John wrote to encourage Gaius for his faithfulness, especially for his hospitality to the various itinerant ministers who traveled through. John also spoke well of a man named Demetrius. But his main purpose in writing this letter was to point out the errors of a man named Diotrephes. His error apparently wasn't of doctrine, but rather of practice. Diotrephes was a man motivated by ego. He was speaking against John and others using the church as a way to exert his power. And in the process of doing so, instead of serving the people he was abusing them.

Correct doctrine is important, but correct behavior is imperative. We need to believe the truth and walk in it.

-from Pastor Chuck Smith from The Word for Today Bible