64 - 3 John
TLDR: A short letter to Gaius: support those who work for the truth; do not imitate Diotrephes, who loves to be first and refuses to welcome the brothers. "Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good."
Overarching Storyline
Elder to Gaius (v. 1–4). Support workers; they deserve hospitality (v. 5–8). Diotrephes; do not imitate evil (v. 9–12). Closing (v. 13–15).
Bible Project: 3 John overview.
Pegs for Memorizing This Book
- Person: Gaius, Diotrephes, Demetrius.
- Image: Walking in truth, hospitality, first place.
- Number: 1 (chapter; 15 verses).
- Phrase: "Do not imitate what is evil but what is good" (v. 11); "Work together for the truth" (v. 8).
Highlights
- 3 John 11 — Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good; whoever does good is from God.
- 3 John 4 — No greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
(Link to verse entries and meditations as added.)
Before and After
- Before: 2 John; 3 John is also brief; theme shifts to supporting traveling workers and rebuking pride.
- After: Jude; 3 John is personal; Jude is a warning against apostates.
Place in the Overarching Biblical Story
Hospitality and humility. Support those who preach the truth; reject the example of those who seek preeminence and refuse the brothers. A practical note on church life and mission.
Interesting Facts
- Diotrephes — Loves to be first; refuses to welcome brothers; one of the few named negative examples in the epistles.
- Gaius — Common name; likely a leader or host in a local church.