In 3 John, John the apostle writes with his usual strong emphasis on truth to a much-loved brother in Christ, Gaius, who lives near the city of Ephesus. He highly commends Gaius' care and hospitality to his messengers whose mission was to take the Gospel from place to place, whether they were known to him or were strangers. John exhorts him to continue to do good and not to imitate evil, as in the example of Diotrephes. This other man had taken over the leadership of a church in Asia Minor and not only refused to recognize John’s authority as an apostle but also refused to receive his letters and submit to his directions. He also circulated malicious slanders against John and excommunicated members who showed support and hospitality to John’s messengers. Before John concludes his letter, he also commends the example of Demetrius, of whom he has heard excellent reports.
Scriptures referenced include 3 John; Acts 19:29, Acts 20:4, Romans 16:23, and 1 Corinthians 1:14; 1 John 1:9, and John 5:4; Matthew 5:21; 2 John 1-4; 1 Corinthians 4:16; and 1 Peter 2:21-22.
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