GAIUS Just as he did at the beginning of 2 John, the apostle describes himself as aged in addressing this personal letter to Gaius, whom he loved. The term here for beloved suggests a very close relationship. John sincerely loved him. Gaius had taken care of his soul's needs, so now John prayed tha... [ Continue Reading ]
HELPING TRAVELING PREACHERS Traveling preachers went from place to place preaching the truth during the first century. John commended Gaius for supporting their efforts by taking them in and providing for their needs (Matthew 25:31-46; 1 Timothy 3:2; 1 Timothy 4:9-10). Those he had helped had report... [ Continue Reading ]
DIOTREPHES Diotrephes was a man that liked to be in first position. So, when a letter came from John, perhaps carried by the missionaries just discussed, he suppressed the letter and refused to allow the preachers to come in and be with the saints. He falsely accused John with evil words. He refuse... [ Continue Reading ]
DEMETRIUS AND SOME CLOSING WORDS Demetrius may have been one of the letter bearers who had been refused. At least, he is a contrast to the bad example of Diotrephes. Men spoke well of him generally, but public opinion can be wrong. The life of truth he lived also commended him (Matthew 7:15-20). Jo... [ Continue Reading ]