查經資料大全

 

| Back to Home Page | Back to Book Index |

 

3 John Commentary

 

3 John 1

Again the apostle insists on the truth as characterising real love: "Whom I love in the truth " he says to Gaius. He rejoiced when the brethren (those I imagine whom Gaius had received into his house and helped on their journey) testified of the truth that was in him as in effect he walked in the truth. The apostle had no greater joy than that of hearing that his children walked in the truth. In receiving those who went forth to preach the truth they helped the truth itself; they were co-workers with it. Diotrephes would have nothing to do with this; he not only refused to receive these itinerant preachers but excommunicated those who did so. He claimed authority for himself. The apostle would remember it. It is their duty to do good. "He that doeth good is of God."

He goes so far with regard to the truth as to say that the truth itself bore witness to Demetrius. I suppose that the latter had propagated it and that the establishment and confirmation of the truth every where-at least where he had laboured-was a testimony with regard to himself.

This insistence on the truth as the test for the last days is very remarkable; and so is this preaching itinerancy' by persons who took nothing of the Gentiles when they came forth leaving it to God to cause them to be received of those who had the truth at heart the truth being their only passport among Christians and the only means by which the apostle could guard the faithful. It appears that they were of the Jewish race for he says "receiving nothing of the Gentiles " the apostle thus making the distinction. I notice this because if it be so the force of the expression "and not for ours only" (l John 2:2) becomes simple and evident which it is not to every one. The apostle as Paul does makes the difference of 'us' Jews though one in Christ. We may also remark that the apostle addressed the assembly and not Diotrephes its head; and that it was this leader who loving preeminence resisted the apostle's words which the assembly as it appears were not inclined to do.

Gaius persevered in his godly course in spite of the ecclesiastical authority (whatever may have been its right or pretended right) which Diotrephes evidently exercised: for he cast persons out of the assembly.

When the apostle came he would (like Paul) manifest his real power. He did not own in himself an ecclesiastical authority to remedy these things by a command. These Epistles are very remarkable in this respect. With regard to those who went about preaching the only means he had even in the case of a woman was to call her attention to the truth. The authority of the preacher lay altogether in that. His competency was another matter. The apostle knew no authority which sanctioned their mission the absence of which would prove it to be false or unauthorised. The whole question of their reception lay in the doctrine which they brought. The apostle had no other way to judge of the authority of their mission: there was then no other; for had there been any that authority would have flowed from him. He would have been able to say "Where are the proofs of their mission?" He knew none but this-do they bring the truth? If not do not salute them. If they bring the truth you do well to receive them in spite of all the Diotrephes in the world.

── John DarbySynopsis of 3 John

 

3 John 1

Chapter Contents

The apostle commends Gaius for piety and hospitality. (1-8) Cautions him against siding with Diotrephes who was a turbulent spirit; but recommends Demetrius as a man of excellent character. (9-12) He hopes soon to see Gaius. (13 14)

Commentary on 3 John 1:1-8

(Read 3 John 1:1-8)

Those who are beloved of Christ will love the brethren for his sake. Soul prosperity is the greatest blessing on this side heaven. Grace and health are rich companions. Grace will employ health. A rich soul may be lodged in a weak body; and grace must then be exercised in submitting to such a dispensation. But we may wish and pray that those who have prosperous souls may have healthful bodies; that their grace may shine where there is still more room for activity. How many professors there are about whom the apostle's words must be reversed and we must earnestly wish and pray that their souls might prosper as their health and circumstances do! True faith will work by love. A good report is due from those who receive good; they could not but testify to the church what they found and felt. Good men will rejoice in the soul prosperity of others; and they are glad to hear of the grace and goodness of others. And as it is a joy to good parents it will be a joy to good ministers to see their people adorn their profession. Gaius overlooked petty differences among serious Christians and freely helped all who bore the image and did the work of Christ. He was upright in what he did as a faithful servant. Faithful souls can hear their own praises without being puffed up; the commendation of what is good in them lays them at the foot of the cross of Christ. Christians should consider not only what they must do but what they may do; and should do even the common actions of life and of good-will after a godly sort serving God therein and designing his glory. Those who freely make known Christ's gospel should be helped by others to whom God gives the means. Those who cannot themselves proclaim it may yet receive help and countenance those who do so.

Commentary on 3 John 1:9-12

(Read 3 John 1:9-12)

Both the heart and mouth must be watched. The temper and spirit of Diotrephes was full of pride and ambition. It is bad not to do good ourselves; but it is worse to hinder those who would do good. Those cautions and counsels are most likely to be accepted which are seasoned with love. Follow that which is good for he that doeth good as delighting therein is born of God. Evil-workers vainly pretend or boast acquaintance with God. Let us not follow that which is proud selfish and of bad design though the example may be given by persons of rank and power; but let us be followers of God and walk in love after the example of our Lord.

Commentary on 3 John 1:13 14

(Read 3 John 1:13 14)

Here is the character of Demetrius. A name in the gospel or a good report in the churches is better than worldly honour. Few are well spoken of by all; and sometimes it is ill to be so. Happy those whose spirit and conduct commend them before God and men. We must be ready to bear our testimony to them; and it is well when those who commend can appeal to the consciences of such as know most of those who are commended. A personal conversation together often spares time and trouble and mistakes which rise from letters; and good Christians may well be glad to see one another. The blessing is Peace be to you; all happiness attend you. Those may well salute and greet one another on earth who hope to live together in heaven. By associating with and copying the example of such Christians we shall have peace within and live at peace with the brethren; our communications with the Lord's people on earth will be pleasing and we shall be numbered with them in glory everlasting.

── Matthew HenryConcise Commentary on 3 John

 

3 John 1

Verse 1

[1] The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius whom I love in the truth.

Caius was probably that Caius of Corinth whom St. Paul mentions Romans 16:23. If so either he was removed from Achaia into Asia or St. John sent this letter to Corinth.

Verse 3

[3] For I rejoiced greatly when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee even as thou walkest in the truth.

For — I know thou usest all thy talents to his glory.

The truth that is in thee — The true faith and love.

Verse 4

[4] I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.

I have no greater joy than this — Such is the spirit of every true Christian pastor.

To hear that my children walk in the truth — Caius probably was converted by St. Paul. Therefore when St. John speaks of him. with other believers as his children it may be considered as the tender style of paternal love whoever were the instruments of their conversion. And his using this appellation when writing under the character of the elder has its peculiar beauty.

Verse 5

[5] Beloved thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren and to strangers;

Faithfully — Uprightly and sincerely.

Verse 6

[6] Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort thou shalt do well:

Who have testified of thy love before the church — The congregation with whom I now reside.

Whom if thou send forward on their journey — Supplied with what is needful.

Thou shalt do well — How tenderly does the apostle enjoin this!

Verse 7

[7] Because that for his name's sake they went forth taking nothing of the Gentiles.

They went forth — To preach the gospel.

Verse 8

[8] We therefore ought to receive such that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.

To receive — With all kindness.

The truth — Which they preach.

Verse 9

[9] I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes who loveth to have the preeminence among them receiveth us not.

I wrote to the church — Probably that to which they came.

But Diotrephes — Perhaps the pastor of it.

Who loveth to have the preeminence among them — To govern all things according to his own will.

Receiveth us not — Neither them nor me. So did the mystery of iniquity already work!

Verse 10

[10] Wherefore if I come I will remember his deeds which he doeth prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith neither doth he himself receive the brethren and forbiddeth them that would and casteth them out of the church.

He prateth against us — Both them and me thereby endeavouring to excuse himself.

Verse 11

[11] Beloved follow not that which is evil but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.

Follow not that which is evil — In Diotrephes.

But that which is good — In Demetrius.

He hath not seen God — Is a stranger to him.

Verse 12

[12] Demetrius hath good report of all men and of the truth itself: yea and we also bear record; and ye know that our record is true.

And from the truth itself — That is what they testify is the very truth.

Yea we also bear testimony — I and they that are with me.

Verse 14

[14] But I trust I shall shortly see thee and we shall speak face to face. Peace be to thee. Our friends salute thee. Greet the friends by name.

Salute the friends by name — That is in the same manner as if I had named them one by one. The word friend does not often occur in the New Testament being swallowed up in the more endearing one of brother.

── John WesleyExplanatory Notes on 3 John

 

Chapter 1. Walk in the Truth Together

Go Out to Preach
Receive No Help

I. Commendation of Gaius

  1. All Go Well
  2. Walk in the Truth
  3. Show Hospitality to Travellers

II. Condemnation of Diotrephes

  1. Love to Be the First
  2. Gossip Maliciously
  3. Prohibit Welcoming the Brothers

III. Example of Demetrins

  1. Testified by Everyone
  2. Testified by the Truth
  3. Testified by the Apostle

── Chih-Hsin ChangAn Outline of The New Testament

                             
The Three Men Of Third John (1-14)
 
I. THE THREE MEN OF THIRD JOHN
 
   A. GAIUS -- A MAN WHOM JOHN WOULD HAVE PROSPER (1-8)
      1. A dear friend of John
whom he prayed would prosper physically
         as well as he did spiritually - 3 Jn 1-2
      2. John so loved and prayed for Gaius
because he was a man 
         who...
         a. Had a good reputation - 3 Jn 3a
         b. Walked in the truth - 3 Jn 3b
         c. Gave John great joy when hearing of his faithfulness - 
            3 Jn 4
         d. Was hospitable toward all - 3 Jn 5-6a
         e. Was encouraged to continue supporting gospel preachers - 
            3 Jn 6b-8
 
   B. DIOTREPHES -- A MAN WHO WOULD BE PREEMINENT (9-11)
      1. A description of Diotrephes' character...
         a. Self-promoter -- he strove to be first - 3 Jn 9a
         b. Insubordinate -- he would not receive the [authority of] 
            apostles - 3 Jn 9b
         c. Slanderous -- He spoke nonsense
and slandered - 3 Jn 10a
         d. Vindictive -- He would not receive certain brethren
and 
            cast out other brethren - 3 Jn 10b
      2. Diotrephes' character serves as a warning:  "he who does evil
         has not seen God" - 3 Jn 11b
 
   C. DEMETRIUS -- A MAN WHO WOULD BE A PATTERN (11-12)
      1. John encourages Gaius to imitate what is good
for he who does
         good is of God - 3 Jn 11
      2. Demetrius appears to be offered as a pattern for Gaius
for
         Demetrius had a good report... - 3 Jn 12
         a. From all the brethren
         b. From the truth itself ("Demetrius lived according to the 
            mandates of God's Word so that his life showed clear 
            evidence of the truth" - Kistemaker)
         c. From John and the apostles
 
[Thus we have these pen portraits of three men preserved in this 
letter
giving us some insight into the life of the early church.
There were some good men (Gaius
Demetrius)
but sadly there were some
bad as well (Diotrephes).
 
Not much different today
is it?  That being the case
then perhaps we 
should remember these...]
 
II. LESSONS FROM THIRD JOHN
 
   A. CHRISTIANS ARE NOT ALWAYS WHAT THEY SHOULD BE...
      1. We may have to serve in the face of opposition from other 
         brethren
      2. Will we allow this to effect our service?
      3. Will we allow this to effect our salvation?
 
   B. CHRISTIANS OFTEN IMITATE OTHER CHRISTIANS...
      1. John says to imitate what is good for two reasons:
         a. Those who do good are of God
         b. Those who do evil do not know God
      2. What example are we setting in the local church?  Who are we
         imitating?
      3. Gaius had the example of Diotrephes and Demetrius.  Who do you
         suppose he would seek to imitate?
   
   C. CHRISTIANS OFTEN ALLOW THE "SPIRIT OF DIOTREPHES" TO REIGN...
      1. Diotrephes was successful because some of the members...
         a. Allowed Diotrephes to dominate
         b. Would not take a stand for the truth
         c. Would not support those who took a stand for the truth
      2. Diotrephes was successful because there was a certain climate
         of complacency and cowardice within the local church
      3. NOTE:  That Diotrephes was able to get away with his 
         domination strongly suggests to me that Gaius and Diotrephes
         were not members of the same congregation
but in different
         congregations
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. We will consider some more truths that can be gleaned from this 
   epistle in the next couple of lessons
 
2. But I hope that this introduction to this epistle and a brief look 
   at "The Three Men Of Third John" will stimulate our thinking...
   a. What kind of example are we setting?
   b. If John had written a letter in which your name was mentioned
      what would he have said about you?
      1) Would he have prayed for your prosperity?
      2) Would he have condemned your desire for prominence?
      3) Or would he have set you up as a pattern for others to follow?
   c. If we will but "walk in the truth" like Gaius
we will have a 
      good "testimony" from all like Demetrius!
 
NOTE: A special thanks to Chris Reeves (CHREEVES@aol.com) and his 
Expandable Outlines #37 (THREE MEN OF THIRD JOHN)
from which I
borrowed heavily in preparing this outline.

 

Spiritual And Material Prosperity (2-4)
 
INTRODUCTION
 
1. We saw in our previous study that Third John is an epistle addressed
   to Gaius
a man whom John would have prosper:
 
   "Beloved
I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in
   health
just as your soul prospers" - 3 Jn 2
 
2. In this verse
John alludes to two kinds of prosperity:
   a. There is spiritual prosperity ("just as your soul prospers")
   b. And there is material prosperity ("that you may prosper in all 
      things and be in health")
 
3. The manner in which John mentions and compares these two kinds of 
   prosperity is interesting
and raises several questions worth 
   considering:
   a. What are the signs of spiritual prosperity?
   b. What is the propriety of praying for material prosperity?
   c. Would we want John to pray such a prayer for us?
 
[These questions we shall attempt to answer in this lesson.  Beginning
with the first question
we need go no further than the context of 
Third John...]
 
I. THE SIGNS OF SPIRITUAL PROSPERITY
 
   A. THE TRUTH IS ABIDING IN YOU...
      1. John rejoiced greatly when he heard from others of how the 
         "truth" was in Gaius - 3 Jn 3a
      2. That the "truth" was in Gaius was one indication that his soul
         was prosperous
      3. What does it mean to have the "truth" in you?  Two 
         possibilities:
         a. It could refer to the abiding of Jesus in one's soul
as He
            is the truth - cf. Jn 14:6
         b. It could refer to the incorporation into our very heart and
            soul the teachings and principles of the gospel of Jesus
         -- It pretty much means the same thing
for the latter brings
            about the former - cf. Jn 14:21-23; 1 Jn 3:24
      4. A prosperous soul
then
is one in which...
         a. One's heart and mind has opened itself up to receive all 
            that Jesus taught
         b. One is feeding daily upon the Word of God
whereby 
            spiritual growth is possible - 1 Pe 2:2
 
   B. YOU ARE WALKING IN THE TRUTH...
      1. John could also joyfully write of Gaius "walking in the truth"
         - 3 Jn 3b-4
      2. In a sense
there is a mixing of metaphors here
         a. The truth abides in Gaius
         b. Gaius walks in the truth
         -- Perhaps that simply illustrates the limitation of human 
            language to describe spiritual realities
      3. The point to be made
however
is this:  for there to be 
         prosperity
there must be progress
         a. It is not enough to simply sit and say "I have the truth in
            my soul"
         b. One must be acting upon it
living according to it
as 
            illustrated by Jesus in His sermon on the mount - cf. Mt 7:
            24-27
         c. True blessedness comes in being a "doer" and not just a
            "hearer" - Ja 1:22-25; Jn 13:17
 
[Spiritual prosperity occurs as one feeds upon the truth of God found
only in His Son Jesus Christ
and lives his or her life in harmony with
that truth.  So Gaius prospered in his soul
and so can we!
 
Gaius' need was not spiritual prosperity
it evidently was material
prosperity. This brings up the question of...]
 
II. THE PROPRIETY OF PRAYING FOR MATERIAL PROSPERITY
 
   A. JOHN'S PRAYER FOR GAIUS...
      1. John thought it proper to pray for things other than spiritual
         needs - 3 Jn 2
         a. "that you may prosper in all good things"
         b. "and be in good health"
      2. Whether it be family
business
or personal health
it is 
         proper to pray that God might bless us in these areas
 
   B. JOHN WAS FOLLOWING THE EXAMPLE SET BY OTHERS...
      1. The example of the Psalmist - cf. Ps 144:12-15
      2. The example of our Lord - Mt 6:11 ("Give us this day our 
         daily bread")
 
   C. THE CHALLENGE IS KEEPING IT IN PROPER PERSPECTIVE...
      1. If our desire for material prosperity is for personal gain
         then we should not expect God to answer favorably - cf. Ja 4:
         2-4
      2. But there can be altruistic reasons for praying for material
         prosperity:
         a. We can pray for health
that one might live longer to serve
            the Lord in this life
         b. We can pray for success in business
that we might have the
            means to help others
         c. We can pray for peace
that we might further the spread of
            the gospel
      3. Of course
it is much easier to pray with prosper perspective
         when it is others we are praying for
and not ourselves (as is
         the case in our text!)
 
[That brings us to a few final observations I would like to make 
concerning...]
 
III. MATERIAL PROSPERITY IN RELATION TO SPIRITUAL PROSPERITY
 
   A. "...JUST AS YOUR SOUL PROSPERS"
      1. John prays that Gaius prosper materially just as he does 
         spiritually
      2. In view of Gaius' spiritual prosperity (the truth abides in
         him
he walks in the truth)
this prayer if answered would be
         a blessing to Gaius
      3. Would we want God to answer such a prayer in our behalf?  To
         the degree that our souls prosper...
         a. Would we want Him to bless our physical bodies?
         b. Would we want Him to bless our families
our homes
our 
            jobs
our nation?
      4. I dare say that in light of the spiritual condition of some
         Christians
such a prayer answered in their behalf would be a
         curse
not a blessing!
 
   B. MATERIAL PROSPERITY IS GOOD
BUT SPIRITUAL PROSPERITY IS ETERNAL
      1. As Paul writes
godliness has "promise of the life that now is
         and of that which is to come" - 1 Ti 4:7-8; 6:6-7
      2. We can't take material prosperity with us
and it takes 
         spiritual prosperity on our part (i.e.
wisdom from God) to 
         properly use the material blessings we have - 1 Ti 6:8-10
         17-19
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. So while we may certainly pray for our material prosperity
may we
   never lose sight of the fact that our greatest need is spiritual
   prosperity which lasts forever
 
2. Concentrate your efforts on prospering spiritually
and may the Lord
   in His Divine wisdom and grace bless you in all other ways
   accordingly!
 
Are you walking in the truth?  Is the truth abiding in you?  Heed the
call of the gospel today if you have not already... - cf. Mk 16:15-16;
Ac 2:36-38

 

Supporting Ministers Of The Gospel (5-8)
 
INTRODUCTION
 
1. In writing to Gaius
John has referred to his joy of hearing that
   Gaius is "walking in the truth" - 3 Jn 3-4
 
2. An area of Gaius' life in which this was especially true was in
   showing hospitality to traveling ministers - 3 Jn 5-8
 
3. In Second John
we saw the "danger" of receiving and supporting
   those teachers who do not proclaim the doctrine of Christ - cf. 2 Jn
   9-11
 
4. But here in Third John
we learn of the "good" that can be done when
   we receive and support those involved in the spreading of the gospel
 
5. In this study
we shall consider...
   a. The scriptural authority for supporting ministers of the gospel
   b. The reasons given by John for why we should be willing to do so
 
[Going outside of our text to other portions of Scripture
consider 
what we learn about...]
 
I. THE SCRIPTURAL AUTHORITY FOR SUPPORTING MINISTERS
 
   A. AS TAUGHT BY JESUS...
      1. Jesus Himself was dependent upon others for support as He went
         about preaching - Lk 8:1-3
      2. In sending out the twelve disciples
He taught that "a worker
         is worthy of his food" - cf. Mt 10:5-10
      3. In sending out the seventy
He said "the laborer is worthy of
         his wages" - cf. Lk 10:1-8
 
   B. AS TAUGHT BY PAUL...
      1. Though for personal reasons he generally chose not to accept
         it
Paul defended the right of supporting ministers - 1 Co 9:
         3-14
         a. Just as soldiers are not expected to support themselves 
            - 1 Co 9:7a
         b. Just as farmers and shepherds enjoy the fruits of their 
            labors - 1 Co 9:b
         c. Just as the Law illustrated with the command not to muzzle
            the ox that treads out the grain - 1 Co 9:8-10
         d. From the principle of reasonableness:  if one sows
            spiritual things
is it a great matter to reap material
            things? - 1 Co 9:11
         e. From the example of those serving in the temple who could
            partake of the offerings on the altar - 1 Co 9:13
         f. Even the Lord commanded:  "Those who preach the gospel
            should live of the gospel" (perhaps a reference to Mt 10:10
            and Lk 10:7) - 1 Co 9:14
         g. NOTE:  Paul chose not to receive such support under normal
            circumstances for the following reasons...
            1) It was one of the few areas in which he could boast
               - 1 Co 9:15
            2) He could not boast in preaching the gospel
for he had
               been divinely commissioned - 1 Co 9:16-17
               a) He must do it as a steward of Christ
               b) He had no choice if he were to be saved
               c) Such is not the case of those who preach today; 
                  unless the Lord appeared to us and commanded us to
                  preach (as He did with Paul)
it is something we do
                  willingly and thereby have a reason to boast
            3) But
that Paul might have a reason to boast
a reward
               he freely gave up his right (authority) to receive
               support in _most_ cases - 1 Co 9:18 (however cf. 2 Co
               11:7-9; Ph 4:10-16)
      2. Another passage by Paul suggesting the scripturalness of
         supporting teachers - Ga 6:6
 
[With the approval of Jesus and His apostle Paul
there should be no
question about the scripturalness of supporting ministers of the 
gospel.
 
As we return to our text (3 Jn 5-8)
we find that John gives us six
reasons that ought to motivate us to do so...]
 
II. SCRIPTURAL MOTIVATION FOR SUPPORTING MINISTERS
 
   A. IT IS A TESTIMONY TO OUR FAITHFULNESS...
      1. John wrote of Gaius:  "Beloved
you do faithfully..." - 3 Jn 5
      2. When we show hospitality to brethren (and ministers)
it 
         demonstrates our faithfulness to the teachings of Christ and
         His apostles
 
   B. IT IS A TESTIMONY TO OUR LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHER...
      1. John said of those who had received Gaius' hospitality that
         they "...had borne witness of your love..." - 3 Jn 6a
      2. We demonstrate that we are keeping that "new" commandment
         first given to us by the Lord Himself - cf. Jn 13:34-35
      3. In light of the value of such love ("by this all will 
         know...")
we ought to be grateful for opportunities to bear
         witness of our love for the brethren
 
   C. IT HONORS GOD...
      1. John makes reference to sending such ministers on their 
         journey "in a manner worthy of God" - 3 Jn 6
      2. "worthy of God" means "as befits God"
      3. Thus the way in which we support ministers of God can be a 
         reflection upon God Himself
         a. If we do not consider His faithful ministers worthy of
            support
what do we think of God?
         b. If we honor and support those servants who faithfully
            proclaim His Word
it is because we honor and respect the
            One they serve!
 
   D. IT IS A TESTIMONY TO THE LOST...
      1. The ones Gaius was encouraged to support were those who were
         "taking nothing from the Gentiles" - 3 Jn 7
         a. This likely means they would not solicit support from the
            unsaved
         b. Depending instead upon their brethren
      2. When ministers of the gospel solicit help from those lost 
         souls they are trying to save
it sends a bad message
         a. Perhaps the ministers are in it just for the money...
         b. If what they taught was worth anything
why don't their own
            followers support it?
      3. When the gospel is offered free of cost
being supported 
         whole-heartedly by those who know it best
it can be a 
         powerful testimony of the value _we_ place on it!
 
   E. IT OBEYS GOD...
      1. John
by inspiration of the Spirit of God
tells us "We 
         therefore _ought_ to receive such" - 3 Jn 8a
      2. Thus
supporting ministers of the gospel is not only an 
         opportunity
but an obligation!
         a. Exhorted by Paul in Ga 6:6
         b. Exchange of material things for spiritual things considered
            reasonable by Paul in 1 Co 9:11; cf. also Ro 15:26-27
 
   F. IT MAKES ONE A FELLOW WORKER FOR THE TRUTH...
      1. As John concludes in verse 8:  "that we may become fellow 
         workers for the truth"
      2. When we support a teacher
we become co-workers in what they
         do
         a. If we support teachers of error
we share in their evil
            deeds - 2 Jn 10-11
         b. But when we support teachers of the gospel
we have 
            fellowship in their work - Ph 1:3-5; cf. 4:15-16
      3. As co-workers
we will one day enjoy the same rewards - cf. 
         Mt 10:40-42
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. So we not only have scriptural authority for supporting ministers of
   the gospel
but many reasons to do so!
 
2. The rapid spread of the gospel and growth of the early church was
   facilitated by such people as Gaius
along with...
   a. Aquila and Priscilla
who allowed the churches to meet in their
      homes - Ro 15:3-5a; 1 Co 16:19
   b. Philemon
who let the church meet in his house
and could be 
      called upon without hesitation to provide lodging for the apostle
      Paul - Phile 1-2
22
 
3. Today
as walls tumble down that once stood preventing the free 
   course of the gospel
there is still a need to support those who 
   preach the gospel
 
May the spirit and liberality of Gaius fill the hearts of those 
Christians and churches who would be fellow workers for the truth!

 

The Spirit Of Diotrephes (9-10)
 
INTRODUCTION
 
1. In our study of Third John
we have noticed the commendable spirit
   found in Gaius...
   a. The truth was in him - 3 Jn 3
   b. He walked in the truth - 3 Jn 3-4
   c. He demonstrated love and hospitality towards the brethren and for
      strangers - 3 Jn 5-6
 
2. Unfortunately
another man mentioned in this letter did not possess
   the spirit of Gaius...
   a. His name was Diotrephes
   b. And John felt it necessary to relate what Diotrephes had done
      and what he (John) would have to do in response - 3 Jn 9-10
 
3. While there are many people today who possess the spirit of Gaius
   and bless the Lord's church accordingly
it is not uncommon for 
   "The Spirit Of Diotrephes"...
   a. To be found in some churches
   b. To tear apart the love and unity that ought to prevail in every
      congregation
 
4. That we might be on guard against "The Spirit Of Diotrephes"
in
   this lesson we shall...
   a. Identify exactly what characterized the spirit of Diotrephes
   b. Consider how it was so contrary to the principles taught by our
      Lord and His apostles
 
[We begin
then
by noticing that "The Spirit Of Diotrephes" was one
of...]
 
I. DESIRING PREEMINENCE (9a)
 
   A. IN THE CASE OF DIOTREPHES...
      1. John wrote that he "loves to have the preeminence"
      2. The word "preeminence" in the Greek is "philoproteuo" 
         {fil-op-rote-yoo'-o}
         a. It means to be fond of being first
         b. I.e.
ambitious of distinction; love to have the 
            preeminence
      3. It was his love of being first (a sin in itself) that led to
         other sins that he committed
      4. Unfortunately
Diotrephes failed to consider that "sin" is
         spelled with a capital "I" (i.e.
"self" is at the root of all
         sin)
 
   B. THE TEACHING OF THE SCRIPTURES...
      1. When the mother of James and John expressed a desire for her
         sons to be given preeminence
Jesus taught the principle of
         humility and service - Mt 20:20-28
      2. He did so again as he spoke out against the scribes and 
         Pharisees - Mt 23:6-12
      3. Paul taught that in matters of honor we should give preference
         to one another - Ro 12:10
      4. Indeed
we must not have the sort of selfish ambition found in
         Diotrephes
but the humble servitude found in the mind of 
         Christ - cf. Ph 2:2-8
      5. Whereas "sin" is spelled with a capital "I"
the cross is an 
         "I" that has been crossed out! (i.e.
denying "self" is a 
         cardinal principle of Christianity)
 
   C. HOW ABOUT TODAY?
      1. We live in the "me generation" where the spirit of Diotrephes
         reigns supreme
      2. It should not surprise us
when the church is so often 
         influenced by the world
to hear people say:
         a. "But I want..."
         b. "But I think..."
      3. But there is no room in the kingdom for the "me first" 
         mentality; where it exists
more sins and problems are bound
         to follow
 
[We see that to be the case as we notice that "The Spirit Of 
Diotrephes" was also one of...]
 
II. REJECTING APOSTOLIC AUTHORITY (9b)
 
   A. IN THE CASE OF DIOTREPHES...
      1. John writes simply: "[he] does not receive us"
      2. It may seem incredible that one would refuse to accept and 
         submit to...
         a. The disciple whom Jesus loved!
         b. An apostle of our Lord Jesus Christ!
      3. But because of his love to be first
there was no room in 
         Diotrephes' heart for someone over him in matters of authority
 
   B. THE TEACHING OF THE SCRIPTURES...
      1. It is important that we appreciate the proper chain of 
         authority in the kingdom...
         a. As Creator
God inherently has all authority
         b. However
the Father has delegated all authority to His Son 
            - Mt 28:18; Ep 1:20-22
         c. Jesus in turn has delegated authority to His apostles - Jn 
            13:20
            1) He sent the Holy Spirit to assist them
and guide them
               into all the truth - Jn 14:26; 16:12-13
            2) Thus they could speak and write with the authority of 
               God behind them - cf. 1 Co 14:37; 1 Th 2:13
      2. This is why we find that the early church "continued 
         steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine..." - Ac 2:42
 
   C. HOW ABOUT TODAY?
      1. The spirit of Diotrephes appears to reign unchecked in those 
         churches that reject...
         a. The authority of the apostles in preference for the 
            authority of their own councils
synods
or conferences
         b. The clear teachings of the apostles concerning such issues
            as homosexuality
women preachers
etc.
         c. Apostolic precedent (whether by command or example) to 
            authorize any church practice that suits their fancy
      2. And the spirit of Diotrephes reigns supreme in the lives of
         those professing Christians who reject the apostles' call for
         holy and sanctified living...
         a. So they can choose their own sexual preference and 
            lifestyle
         b. So they can put their own personal interests first
before
            the kingdom of God
 
[Yes
living in a narcissistic society such as ours
it is not uncommon
to find the spirit of Diotrephes present in so many peoples' lives.
 
When it is found in the lives of Christians
things can get ugly rather
quickly.  As we see in our text
"The Spirit Of Diotrephes" can 
manifest itself in Christians by...]
 
III. SPEAKING EVIL OF BRETHREN (10a)
 
   A. IN THE CASE OF DIOTREPHES...
      1. John relates that Diotrephes was guilty of "prating against us
         with malicious words"
      2. The word "prating" in the Greek is phluareo {floo-ar-eh'-o}...
         a. It means to be a babbler or trifler
         b. By implication it means to berate idly or mischievously
      3. The word "malicious" is poneros {pon-ay-ros'} and means
         "hurtful
evil"
      4. Diotrephes gave little concern
then
about how he spoke with
         evil and hurtful words concerning his brethren
 
   B. THE TEACHING OF THE SCRIPTURES...
      1. We will be judged for the idle words that we use - Mt 12:36-37
      2. We are commanded not to speak evil of one another - Ja 4:11-12
         a. To do so is to speak evil of the law of God!
         b. To do so is to set ourselves up as judges
      3. While it may be necessary at times to "rebuke" our brethren
         (cf. 2 Ti 4:2)...
         a. We are given the proper tools (i.e.
the Scriptures 
            themselves) - 2 Ti 3:16
         b. We are instructed how to approach those in error - 2 Ti 2:
            24-26; Ga 6:1
 
   C. HOW ABOUT TODAY?
      1. Does not the spirit of Diotrephes manifest itself when 
         Christians engage in malicious gossip?
      2. Does not the spirit of Diotrephes reign when overzealous and
         self-appointed "guardians of the faith" lambaste their
         brethren with whom they differ?
      3. Indeed
it is often the desire for preeminence that prompts
         Christians to reject apostolic teachings concerning brotherly
         relations and to engage in malicious prating
 
[The use of malicious words are not the only weapons used by those
possessed by the spirit of Diotrephes
however.
 
If in their love for preeminence they have actually gained positions of
influence
it is not unusual to see "The Spirit Of Diotrephes
manifested in...]
 
IV. ABUSING CHURCH DISCIPLINE (10b)
 
   A. IN THE CASE OF DIOTREPHES...
      1. Not content with using prating with malicious words
         Diotrephes is described as one who...
         a. "does not receive the brethren"
         b. "forbids those who wish to
putting them out of the church"
      2. In two ways
then
he was abusing church discipline...
         a. Refusing to associate with those worthy of association
         b. Using it as a weapon to manipulate others to do what he
            wanted
 
   B. THE TEACHING OF THE SCRIPTURES...
      1. Jesus taught there might be times when church discipline is
         necessary - Mt 18:15-17
      2. Paul described such a time on two occasions
and gave
         instructions for carrying it out
         a. When a man was living with his father's wife - 1 Co 5:1-13
         b. When Christians refused to work - 2 Th 3:6-15
      3. So there are times when we must "put away from yourselves that
         wicked person"
      4. But there is also the possibility of abusing this method of
         church discipline
as in the case of Diotrephes
 
   C. HOW ABOUT TODAY?
      1. That church discipline could be abused back then
means that
         it can be abused today
      2. This is not to be an excuse to never exercise church
         discipline
but to do so carefully
      3. Just because another church has carried it out against someone
         does not mean they did so properly...
         a. It may have been prompted as part of a power play by a
            "Diotrephes"
         b. The ones being withdrawn from may be innocent
         ...thus the need to exercise discretion and to know the facts
         before accepting the disciplinary action of another church
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. "The Spirit Of Diotrephes" can be summarized as one of...
   a. Desiring preeminence
   b. Rejecting apostolic authority
   c. Speaking evil of brethren
   d. Abusing church discipline
 
2. One must not have all four of these to be guilty of sin...
   a. Any one is an abomination before God!
   b. Any one can destroy brotherly relations!
 
May John's description of "The Spirit Of Diotrephes" serve as a 
warning for us!

 

Imitating The Good (11-12)
 
INTRODUCTION
 
1. After describing "the spirit of Diotrephes" in verses 9-10
John
   encourages his beloved Gaius to be careful about what he imitates:
 
   "Beloved
do not imitate what is evil
but what is good. He who does
   good is of God
but he who does evil has not seen God. Demetrius has
   a good testimony from all
and from the truth itself. And we also
   bear witness
and you know that our testimony is true." - 3 Jn 11-12
 
2. Following upon the condemnation of Diotrephes
and followed by the
   commendation of Demetrius
it is easy to infer...
   a. That John was warning Gaius not to be like Diotrephes
   b. And encouraging him instead to be like Demetrius
 
3. But why does John feel the need to exhort Gaius in this way?
   a. Haven't we seen that Gaius was a man whose soul was prosperous?
   b. Haven't we observed that he was walking in the truth?
   c. Haven't we noticed that he was commended for his hospitality?
   -- Wouldn't this make Gaius himself a man worthy of imitation?
 
4. Yes
and perhaps this should tell us something...
   a. About ourselves as imitators
   b. About the need for everyone to have good role models that we can
      imitate
 
[In this lesson
"Imitating The Good"
I would like for us to reflect
on the idea of being imitators.
 
Let's begin by observing that...]
 
I. WE ARE NATURALLY IMITATORS
 
   A. CHILDREN IMITATE THEIR PARENTS...
      1. Especially in their early years
children seem to delight in
         imitating their parents
      2. They quickly pick up their parent's mannerisms:  the way they
         talk
walk
etc.
      3. It is as though there was some innate reason for them to 
         imitate mom and dad
 
 
   B. TEENAGERS IMITATE THEIR PEERS AND POPULAR IDOLS...
      1. As children get older
they may not seek to imitate their 
         parents
but they are still active imitators
      2. For better or worse (usually worse)
they seek to emulate
         those in their peer group
or those whom they hold in high 
         regard (athletes
musicians
etc.)
      3. Despite frequent claims to want to "be themselves"
you can
         usually tell by their behavior who they have been watching or
         listening to
 
   C. CHRISTIANS IMITATE THOSE THEY HOLD IN HIGH REGARD...
      1. I have observed that many brethren often reflect the 
         attitudes
dispositions
and conduct of those preachers or
         elders for whom they have much respect
      2. This can be good
but in some cases it is not...
         a. I have known some Christians (including preachers) whose
            behavior greatly disturbed me
wondering how they could 
            justify their conduct
         b. But when I saw their peers
or those brethren whom they 
            held in high regard acting in the same way
I began to 
            understand
 
[For whatever reasons
then
we seem to be natural born imitators. Once
we are aware of that fact
we are in a position to appreciate John's 
exhortation to Gaius in verse 11.
 
That leads us to our next point...]
 
II. WE SHOULD IMITATE ONLY THE GOOD
 
   A. IN OUR TEXT
JOHN EXPLAINS WHY...
      1. "He who does good is of God"
         a. The one who does good
truly and naturally
bears evidence
            that they have been born of God - cf. 1 Jn 5:18
         b. Such was the case of Demetrius
whose life bore testimony
            from all who knew him - 3 Jn 12
      2. "He who does evil has not seen God"
         a. The one who consistently engages in evil demonstrates that
            he or she is has not seen God
and is in fact a child of
            the devil! - cf. 1 Jn 3:6b
10
         b. The implication seems to be that Diotrephes was 
            demonstrating that he had not seen God
      3. Who is a better role model for us?
         a. One whose life bears witness that they have come to know 
            God
and are led by Him?
         b. Or one whose life demonstrates that despite their claims to
            the contrary they have yet to come to know God?
 
   B. THERE IS ANOTHER GOOD REASON TO IMITATE ONLY THE GOOD...
      1. We become like those we imitate!
         a. Yes
I know this is redundant
         b. But it needs to be stressed
for some believe they can act 
            like others
dress like others
and yet somehow not be like
            them
      2. Children become like their parents
teenagers like their peers
         and idols
Christians like those they hold in high regard
      3. If we imitate the good
we become good; if we imitate the 
         evil
then it is evil we become!
 
[So if by nature we must be imitators
then let us be selective in who
we follow.  Fortunately...]
 
III. WE HAVE MANY GOOD EXAMPLES TO IMITATE
 
   A. WE CAN IMITATE DEITY...
      1. As Christ encouraged us to do
in showing kindness to our
         enemies - Mt 5:43-48
      2. As Paul instructed the Ephesians to walk in love - Ep 5:1-2
      3. What better example do we have
than that of God and Jesus
         Christ?
      4. Indeed
some of the very titles we wear imply such imitation:
         a. Children of God
         b. Disciples of Jesus Christ
      5. Do you seek to learn as much about God and Jesus as you do 
         other role models?
 
   B. WE CAN IMITATE NEW TESTAMENT EXAMPLES...
      1. To the degree they imitate Christ
as Paul wrote to the
         Corinthians - 1 Co 11:1
      2. The New Testament is filled with good examples for Christians
         today...
         a. For married couples
there is the example of Aquila and
            Priscilla - Ro 16:3-5
         b. For those blessed with things of this life
there is the
            example of Philemon and Gaius - Phile 1-7; 3 Jn 5-8
         c. For women
there is the example of Dorcas - Ac 9:36
39
         d. For young men there is the example of Timothy - Ph 2:19-22
      3. This does not mean to preclude many fine Old Testament 
         examples as well:  Joseph
Daniel
Barzillai the Gileadite (an
         old man who helped David in his affliction - 2 Sam 17:27-29;
         19:31-39) and many others
      4. Indeed
the Scriptures are filled with many wonderful examples
         worthy of our emulation!
 
   C. WE CAN IMITATE MANY OF OUR FELLOW CHRISTIANS TODAY...
      1. As Paul encouraged his fellow Christians to imitate those who
         provided a similar pattern as he - Ph 3:17
      2. Yet we should be careful
for not all who profess to be 
         Christians behave as they should - cf. Ph 3:18-19
      3. It is important
therefore
that we know the Scriptures well
         enough to know when someone is worthy of our emulation
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. Since it appears that we are creatures who will imitate something
   let us make the choice to imitate the good!
   a. Only then do we have the hope of  being "of God"
   b. Only then can we have a testimony like that of Demetrius
to 
      which all bore witness
   -- The only alternative is to imitate the evil
which prevents us
      from ever "seeing God"
   
2. We close by adding these words of the writer to the Hebrews:
 
   "And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the
   full assurance of hope until the end
that you do not become
   sluggish
but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit
   the promises." - He 6:11-12
 
Let us therefore look to the example of Gaius and Demetrius
and beware
of the example of Diotrephes!

 

--《Executable Outlines

 

Walk in the truth together

Go out to preach

Receive no help

 

I.  Commendation of Gaius

1.    All go well

2.    Walk in the truth

3.    Show hospitality to travelers

II. Condemnation of Diotrephes

1.    Love to be the first

2.    Gossip maliciously

3.    Prohibit welcoming the brothers

II.Example of Demetrins

1.    Testified by everyone

2.    Testified by the truth

3.    Testified by the apostle

-- Chih-Hsin ChangAn Outline of The New Testament

 

Three Men in 3 John

This short letter contains—

I. A Threefold Commendation of Gaius to whom the letter is addressed

   1. He was spiritually prosperous (v.2)

   2. loyal to the truth of god (vs.3~4)

   3. hospitably disposed to all (vs.5~6)

II. A Threefold Indictment of Diotrephes (vs.9~10)

III. A Threefold Testimony Concerning Demetrius from all men by the truth and from the apostle (vs.11~12)

── Archibald NaismithOutlines for Sermons

 

Diotrephes (3 John 9~11)

I. What he loved—to have the preeminence—his Personal Pride (v.9)

II. What he spoke—malicious words—his Slanderous Tongue (v.10)

III. What he did—rejected true brethren in Christ forbade others to receive them cast out those who would—his Overbearing Manner (v.10)

IV. What motivated him—had not seen God—his Godless spirit (v.11)

V. What he deserved—the rebuke of the apostle—his Everlasting shame (v.10)

VI. What we may learn—to ‘follow not that which is evil’ (v.11)

── W.H.S.