3 John
About this date: Dates are broad scholarly estimates of composition or final editing, not dates of the events narrated. Traditional attributions and scholarly assessments can differ.
The elder writes to Gaius about hospitality toward traveling workers, a conflict with Diotrephes, and testimony concerning Demetrius. The brief personal letter shows how mission and authority were negotiated through relationships among local communities.
Key points
- Gaius's hospitality is commended as participation in the truth.
- Diotrephes's refusal and exclusion of others are presented from the elder's viewpoint.
- Demetrius receives a recommendation, but the text does not give a full biography.
Scripture
- 3 John 1:1-4 — The elder greets Gaius and rejoices in his walking in truth.
- 3 John 1:5-8 — Hospitality to traveling brothers is praised.
- 3 John 1:9-15 — The elder discusses Diotrephes, commends Demetrius, and anticipates a visit.
Primary sources
3 John 1:8 states:
The elder urges support for traveling workers as cooperation in their mission; the surrounding verses describe their reception and provision.
We therefore ought to receive such, that we may be fellow workers for the truth.
Passage context and translation
Hospitality to traveling brothers is praised.
Before the excerpt
because for the sake of the Name they went out, taking nothing from the Gentiles.
After the excerpt
I wrote to the assembly, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first among them, doesn’t accept what we say.
Sources and further reading
- Anglican Thirty-Nine Articles: canonical books and Apocrypha
- Catholic Catechism §120: canon and book list
- Orthodox Church in America: canon of Scripture
- Orthodox Church in America: Old Testament historical books
- USCCB 3 John with introduction and notes
- USCCB Bible introductions: historical and literary notes