What does it mean to walk in the truth in a world of diverse perspectives? In this Bible study guide, the brief letter of 3 John addresses the importance of living out genuine faith through hospitality, integrity, and support for fellow believers. Prepare to deepen your understanding of faith, love, and fellowship as I explore the valuable teachings that can enrich your spiritual life.
3 John Bible study guide: Brief overview
The Book of 3 John is one of the shortest books in the New Testament, consisting of only 15 verses. It is a personal letter written by the apostle John to Gaius, commending him for his hospitality and commitment to the truth.
In this letter, John addresses issues of hospitality, support for missionaries, and the importance of discerning between good and evil. Here’s a summary of 3 John:
| Category | Summary |
|---|---|
| Author | The Apostle John. |
| Date of writing | Around 85-95 AD. |
| Purpose | To commend Gaius for his hospitality and support of traveling missionaries, to rebuke Diotrephes for his pride and opposition, and to encourage faithfulness in supporting those who spread the truth. |
| Recipients | Gaius, a beloved member of the early church. |
| Historical context | The early church was spreading through itinerant missionaries who relied on the hospitality of fellow believers. John’s letter addresses issues of leadership and support for these teachers. |
| Key themes | Hospitality, support for the truth, pride vs. humility in leadership, walking in truth, and love for fellow believers. |
| Notable Verses | 3 John 1:4, 1:9-11 |
| Application for today | Christians today are encouraged to show hospitality, support the spread of the gospel, and avoid selfish or prideful leadership within the church. |
Importance of studying 3 John
Studying 3 John is crucial for spiritual growth as it provides valuable insights into how to live out the Christian faith practically.
Through the examples of Gaius and Diotrephes, you learn about the importance of showing hospitality to fellow believers and supporting those who spread the Gospel.
The letter also emphasizes the significance of walking in truth and love, essential qualities for every follower of Christ.
Purpose of the 3 John Bible study guide
This guide seeks to help you delve deeper into the teachings of 3 John, gain a better understanding of its message, and apply its lessons to your life.
By examining the themes, characters, and key lessons of the letter, the 3 John Bible study guide aims to equip individuals and groups with tools for spiritual growth, fostering a stronger relationship with God and a deeper sense of community among believers.
3 John Bible study guide: Background information
Understanding the historical and cultural backdrop of 3 John sheds light on the practical issues faced by the early church.
Historical context
3 John was written during a time when the early Christian church was expanding and facing internal challenges. The church was still relatively young, and it was grappling with issues of authority, leadership, and the proper way to handle disagreements within the community.
Traveling missionaries, known as itinerant teachers, were vital for spreading the gospel, but their acceptance was not always guaranteed. Some church leaders, like Diotrephes (mentioned in the letter), resisted these teachers due to their own ambitions or differing views.
Cultural context
In the Greco-Roman world, hospitality was a crucial social custom, and it was especially important within the Christian community. Hosting fellow believers and traveling preachers was seen as both a duty and a mark of genuine faith.
The tension highlighted in 3 John between those who were willing to extend hospitality and those who refused reflects a broader cultural expectation of hospitality.
However, the rise of false teachers created caution within the church, leading to divisions about whom to welcome. The letter provides a snapshot of these internal dynamics and the cultural emphasis on hospitality.
Authorship and date of writing
The apostle John, often referred to as “the Elder,” is traditionally identified as the author of 3 John. This view is supported by the similarities in style, vocabulary, and theological emphasis found in 1 John, 2 John, and the Gospel of John.
The letter is addressed to a man named Gaius, a prominent member of the early church, whom John commends for his faithfulness and hospitality. The writing took place while John was in Ephesus, late in his life, making this one of the last New Testament books penned.
The dating of AD 85-95 is consistent with John’s extended ministry in the region and the issues facing the church during this period.
3 John Bible study guide: Structure of the letter
The structure of 3 John is straightforward. The epistle focuses on themes of hospitality, truth, and church leadership. It is divided into three sections:
| Section | Verses |
|---|---|
Personal greeting: The letter opens with a warm greeting to Gaius, expressing joy over his faithfulness and prosperity | 1-4 |
| Commendation: John commends Gaius for his hospitality to traveling teachers and his support for the truth, contrasting his behavior with that of Diotrephes, who rejected the authority of the apostles | 5-12 |
| Closing and final remarks: The letter concludes with a personal note and a blessing, reflecting John’s personal affection and hope for continued faithfulness | 13-15 |
This structure highlights the letter’s focus on encouraging and instructing Gaius in his Christian walk while addressing issues of church leadership and hospitality.
Literary style
The literary style of 3 John is personal and reflective. The letter is written in a warm and encouraging tone, typical of John’s epistolary style, with a clear emphasis on personal relationships and community behavior.
- Epistolary format: The letter follows a traditional Greco-Roman epistolary structure, common in New Testament writings: Opening greeting (3 John 1), body of the letter (3 John 3-12), closing remarks (3 John 13-14).
- Personal tone and address: The letter is highly personal, addressing Gaius directly in an affectionate manner (“Beloved” is used repeatedly, e.g., 3 John 2, 5, 11).
- Commendation of good behavior: The author praises Gaius for his faithfulness and hospitality toward traveling brethren and missionaries (3 John 5-6).
- Contrast between good and bad leadership: The author contrasts Gaius’s faithfulness with the negative behavior of Diotrephes, who is self-centered and rejects authority (3 John 9-10).
- Clear and direct language: The language is straightforward, focusing on practical Christian living and ethical behavior. Simple and direct commands, like “Do not imitate evil but imitate good” (3 John 11), underline the key message.
- Use of personal examples: The author cites specific individuals (Gaius, Diotrephes, and Demetrius) as examples, making the letter relatable and concrete.
- Short, concluding remarks and benediction: The letter concludes with a desire for face-to-face fellowship (“I hope to see you soon, and we will talk face to face,” 3 John 14). The closing includes a standard farewell, “Peace be to you,” and greetings to mutual friends, reflecting the communal nature of the early Christian church (3 John 15).
3 John Bible study guide: Key themes
The themes of 3 John impart valuable lessons that resonate with Christians today, offering insights for faithful living and meaningful relationships within the body of believers.
Truth and love
3 John underlines the dynamic relationship between truth and love. The apostle John emphasizes the joy he finds in hearing that fellow believers are walking in the truth (3 John 1:4).
This intertwining of truth and love underscores the importance of both doctrinal fidelity and genuine affection within the Christian community.
Importance of walking in truth and love
Central to the teachings of 3 John is the imperative of walking in both truth and love. The apostle John underscores the joy found in seeing fellow believers live according to the truth.
This highlights the vital balance between doctrinal integrity and genuine care for one another, emphasizing the necessity of aligning your beliefs with your actions in love.
Hospitality and support for missionaries
Hospitality emerges as a prominent theme in 3 John, with Gaius commended for his faithful support of traveling missionaries (3 John 1:5-8).
Through his example, the letter encourages believers to extend hospitality to those who labor for the sake of the Gospel, recognizing their partnership in advancing God’s Kingdom.
Demonstrating hospitality and support for fellow believers
Hospitality is a key virtue in 3 John, as exemplified by Gaius’s commendable actions towards traveling missionaries.
The epistle encourages Christians to emulate Gaius’s generosity and hospitality, recognizing the importance of supporting those who labor for the Gospel’s sake.
Consequences of good and evil actions
The consequences of one’s actions, whether good or evil, are highlighted in 3 John. John warns against imitating what is evil but urges believers to pursue what is good (3 John 1:11).
This underscores the principle that your choices have implications, affecting yourself, your witness to others, and your relationship with God.
Consequences of our actions
3 John reminds believers of the repercussions of their actions, whether good or evil. John admonishes against imitating what is evil and urges the pursuit of goodness.
This is a reminder that your choices have consequences, impacting your spiritual well-being and the witness of the Christian community. It underscores the need for discernment and accountability in your conduct.
3 John Bible study guide: Verse-by-verse analysis
3 John is a powerful reminder of the importance of walking in truth, showing hospitality, and supporting those who spread the gospel. It also serves as a warning against pride and divisiveness within the church.
3 John 1:1
John introduces himself as “the elder,” reflecting both his age and spiritual authority. Gaius, a common name at the time, is addressed as “beloved,” indicating a close friendship. John emphasizes his love for Gaius, which is grounded in their shared commitment to the truth of the gospel.
3 John 1:2
John’s prayer for Gaius shows a holistic concern, desiring both physical health and spiritual well-being. The connection between a prosperous soul and overall well-being suggests that spiritual health is foundational for a flourishing life.
3 John 1:3-4
John rejoices in reports about Gaius’s steadfastness in the truth. “Walking in truth” goes beyond mere belief—it involves living out the gospel in daily conduct. John’s joy is deepened by seeing his spiritual children thriving in their faith.
3 John 1:5-6
Gaius is commended for his hospitality and faithful service to fellow believers, even those he does not personally know. His generosity reflects the love of Christ and supports the spread of the gospel.
John encourages Gaius to continue this work, ensuring that these Christian workers are treated in a way “worthy of God.”
3 John 1:7-8
The missionaries that Gaius supports are doing their work for the sake of Christ and rely on the church’s hospitality rather than seeking support from non-believers. By supporting them, believers like Gaius participate in advancing the truth, becoming “fellow workers” in God’s mission.
3 John 1:9-10
John contrasts Gaius’s behavior with that of Diotrephes, a divisive figure in the church who seeks control and rejects apostolic authority.
Diotrephes’s pride leads him to slander John and refuse hospitality to those sent by the church. His authoritarian actions disrupt the community by excommunicating those who oppose him.
3 John 1:11
John exhorts Gaius to follow good examples, like those who live righteously, and to reject the behavior of people like Diotrephes.
This verse emphasizes that a person’s actions reflect their relationship with God—those who do good demonstrate that they know God, while those who practice evil reveal a lack of true spiritual connection.
3 John 1:12
John endorses Demetrius, possibly the letter’s bearer, as a trustworthy and faithful servant. His good reputation is acknowledged by others and is consistent with the truth of the gospel. John’s personal affirmation further confirms Demetrius’s integrity.
3 John 1:13-14
John expresses a desire for a more personal interaction rather than relying solely on written communication. This highlights the importance of fellowship and direct engagement in nurturing Christian relationships.
3 John 1:15
The letter closes with a blessing of peace and a sense of community. John’s request to greet the friends by name shows the personal nature of their relationship, underscoring the value of each member in the church.
3 John Bible study guide: Key characters
The Book of 3 John highlights the importance of walking in truth and supporting faithful Christian workers. Through the characters, John illustrates the contrast between godly and ungodly leadership.
The elder (John)
The author of the letter identifies himself as “the elder,” widely understood to be the Apostle John. As an aged and respected leader in the early church, John writes with authority and deep pastoral care.
He praises those who walk in truth and takes a strong stand against divisive behavior within the Christian community.
Gaius
Gaius is the primary recipient of this letter and is highly praised by John for his faithfulness, hospitality, and commitment to truth.
John acknowledges Gaius for his support of traveling Christian missionaries, even those who were strangers to him, showing that Gaius’ love for the brethren was both practical and sincere.
Diotrephes
Diotrephes is a divisive figure mentioned by John who is condemned for his pride and disruptive behavior. He seeks preeminence in the church, refuses to welcome missionaries, and even excommunicates those who disagree with him.
John warns against his actions, showing that self-serving leadership is harmful to the church’s unity and mission.
Demetrius
Demetrius is commended by John as a positive example. He is likely the one delivering this letter to Gaius. John mentions that Demetrius has a good reputation with everyone, and even the truth itself testifies in his favor.
His character stands in sharp contrast to Diotrephes, representing the kind of leader who walks in integrity and truth.
Major events and conflicts addressed
The Book of 3 John addresses significant events and conflicts within the early Christian community to provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by early believers.
Hospitality and support for missionaries
A significant theme in 3 John revolves around the importance of hospitality towards traveling missionaries who are spreading the Gospel.
Gaius is commended for his hospitality, while Diotrephes is criticized for his refusal to support such individuals.
Conflict within the church
The letter highlights the conflict between Gaius, who represents hospitality and support for missionaries, and Diotrephes, who opposes John’s authority and refuses to welcome them.
This conflict serves as a backdrop for John’s instructions on how to handle such situations within the church.
3 John Bible study guide: Key verses and their exegesis
These key verses from 3 John offer timeless lessons on godly leadership, the importance of truth, hospitality, and the distinction between good and evil.
3 John 1:4
This verse reflects John’s pastoral heart and deep joy in seeing those he has mentored and taught remaining faithful to the truth of the gospel. “My children” refers to the spiritual children he has nurtured in the faith, indicating that John sees his role as one of spiritual fatherhood.
The phrase “walking in the truth” highlights the importance of living a life consistent with the teachings of Christ. This isn’t just about knowledge but daily conduct that aligns with biblical principles. John’s joy is rooted in the visible transformation and steadfastness in the truth by those under his care.
3 John 1:5-6
In these verses, John praises Gaius for his hospitality and service to traveling missionaries, some of whom were unknown to him. Gaius’s actions are a demonstration of his faithfulness to Christ, as he welcomes and supports those spreading the gospel.
The commendation underscores the importance of showing love and hospitality to fellow believers, especially those engaged in ministry. The instruction to “send them on their way in a manner that honors God” emphasizes the responsibility of the church to care for and support those who are dedicated to the work of spreading the gospel.
This principle remains relevant today, reminding believers of the importance of backing mission work and ministry endeavors.
3 John 1:11
John provides a clear moral exhortation, urging believers to choose good over evil. The contrast between Gaius and Diotrephes is evident here—Gaius embodies goodness, while Diotrephes represents the evil that John warns against.
The phrase “anyone who does what is good is from God” reflects the biblical principle that a person’s actions reveal their spiritual condition. Genuine faith produces goodness, while persistent evil indicates a lack of true knowledge of God.
This verse encourages believers to be discerning in whom they emulate and to live in a way that aligns with God’s character and teachings.
3 John Bible study guide: Practical application
Incorporating the teachings of 3 John into daily life can nurture a vibrant faith community characterized by truth and love. Here are practical ways to support others:
- Volunteer your time and resources to serve the marginalized and vulnerable in your community, demonstrating Christ’s love in action.
- Exercise discernment in discerning and responding to doctrinal matters and conflicts within the church.
- Offer practical assistance such as meals, transportation, or accommodations to visiting missionaries or traveling ministers.
- Seek opportunities to extend hospitality and support to missionaries, ministers, and those in need within the Christian community.
- Engage in open dialogue and constructive conflict resolution within the church, prioritizing unity and reconciliation.
3 John Bible study guide: Relevant cross-references
Understanding the interconnectedness of the Scriptures enriches your comprehension of God’s Word, helping you gain insight into recurring themes and complementary teachings.
Connecting 3 John with other biblical passages
The principles in 3 John resonate with various passages from other biblical books, reinforcing the interconnectedness of God’s Word.
1 John
1 John 4:7-12 explores the inseparable relationship between love and truth, echoing the emphasis on walking in truth and love found in 3 John. This passage emphasizes that love is inherent to God’s nature and that those who love are born of God.
Romans
Romans 12:13 encourages believers to practice hospitality, aligning with the commendation of Gaius for his hospitality towards traveling missionaries in 3 John. In this verse, Paul instructs believers to extend hospitality to one another without grumbling.
Matthew
Matthew 25:31-46 highlights the importance of caring for the needs of others, akin to the call to show hospitality and support for fellow believers in 3 John.
This passage depicts Jesus’ teaching on the final judgment, emphasizing the significance of serving others in need as serving Him.
Exploring related themes in the Bible
Examining broader themes across Scripture sheds light on the significance of 3 John within the larger narrative of God’s redemptive plan.
Hospitality
Genesis 18:1-15; Hebrews 13:1-2; 1 Peter 4:9 – These passages underscore the biblical mandate for hospitality, reflecting the virtue exemplified by Gaius in 3 John.
In Genesis, Abraham demonstrates hospitality to three visitors who turn out to be angels. Hebrews exhorts believers to show hospitality to strangers, while 1 Peter encourages hospitality without grumbling.
Truth and love
Ephesians 4:15; 1 Corinthians 13:6; 2 John 1:1-3 – These verses emphasize the essential interplay between truth and love, echoing the central theme of 3 John.
Ephesians urges believers to speak the truth in love, while 1 Corinthians describes love as rejoicing in the truth. 2 John reinforces the importance of walking in truth and love.
Consequences of actions
Galatians 6:7-9; Proverbs 11:18; Romans 2:6-8 – These passages highlight the biblical principle of reaping what one sows, aligning with the warning against imitating evil and pursuing good in 3 John.
Galatians speaks of sowing to please the Spirit to reap eternal life, while Proverbs describes the consequences of wickedness leading to trouble. Romans emphasizes that God “will repay each person according to what they have done.”
3 John Bible study guide: Addressing common misconceptions
Clarifying the misconceptions regarding the Book of 3 John helps you understand its teachings and glean deeper insights into its timeless wisdom.
3 John is merely a personal letter
3 John is indeed a personal letter from the apostle John to Gaius. However, its teachings on truth, love, hospitality, and discernment hold relevance for all believers.
Its inclusion in the New Testament canon underscores its importance for the Christian community.
Hospitality in 3 John is limited to opening one’s home to missionaries
While hospitality towards missionaries is emphasized in 3 John, the broader concept extends to all forms of welcoming and supporting fellow believers.
This includes offering assistance, encouragement, and fellowship to those in need within the community.
The conflict between Gaius and Diotrephes is a historical anecdote
The conflict between Gaius and Diotrephes is a cautionary tale regarding power struggles and discord within the church.
It highlights the importance of humility, unity, and submission to God’s authority in resolving conflicts and promoting harmony.
The emphasis on truth in 3 John neglects the importance of love
While truth is emphasized in 3 John, it is inseparable from love. The apostle John underscores the interconnectedness of truth and love, emphasizing the need for both doctrinal fidelity and genuine affection within the Christian community.
The teachings of 3 John are outdated
Despite its ancient origins, the principles and teachings found in 3 John remain relevant and applicable for believers today.
Its emphasis on truth, love, hospitality, and discernment addresses timeless concerns and challenges faced by modern Christians.
3 John Bible study questions
These questions for individual reflection and group discussion facilitate a deeper understanding and application of the teachings in the Book of 3 John.
Questions for individual reflection
Q1: Reflect on the importance of walking in both truth and love, as emphasized in 3 John. How can you ensure that your beliefs align with biblical truth while expressing genuine love for others?
Q2: Consider the character of Gaius and his commendable hospitality towards traveling missionaries. How can you demonstrate similar hospitality and support to fellow believers and ministers in your community?
Q3: Evaluate your response to conflicts and disagreements within the church context. Are you quick to seek resolution and promote unity, or do you contribute to discord and division?
Q4: Examine the consequences of your actions, both positive and negative, as highlighted in 3 John. How can you strive to make choices that honor God and positively impact those around you?
Q5: Explore the themes of humility and submission to God’s authority in the conflict between Gaius and Diotrephes. How can you cultivate humility and unity within your church community?
Q6: Consider the balance between truth and love in your relationships and interactions with others. How can you maintain doctrinal fidelity without compromising genuine care and compassion?
Q7: Reflect on your practice of hospitality towards fellow believers and strangers. In what ways can you extend hospitality beyond the confines of your home to meet the needs of others?
Q8: Evaluate your role in supporting missionaries and ministers who labor for the sake of the Gospel. How can you actively contribute to their work and encourage them in their service?
Q9: Consider the implications of truth and love in addressing conflicts and disagreements within the church. How can you navigate difficult conversations with grace, humility, and a commitment to biblical truth?
Q10: Reflect on the relevance of 3 John for your own life and faith journey. What lessons or insights have you gained from studying this short but profound letter?
3 John Bible study guide: Group discussion questions
Q1: How does the conflict between Gaius and Diotrephes shed light on power struggles and discord within the church? How can we promote unity and reconciliation in similar situations?
Q2: Discuss the significance of hospitality in 3 John and its implications for our interactions with fellow believers and strangers. How can we cultivate a culture of hospitality within our church community?
Q3: Explore the balance between truth and love as emphasized in 3 John. How can we maintain doctrinal fidelity while expressing genuine care and compassion towards others?
Q4: Reflect on the consequences of our actions, both positive and negative, as highlighted in 3 John. How can we make intentional choices that honor God and positively impact those around us?
Q5: Consider the role of humility and submission to God’s authority in resolving conflicts within the church. How can we cultivate humility and promote unity in our church context?
Q6: Discuss practical ways to support missionaries and ministers who labor for the sake of the Gospel, as exemplified in 3 John. How can we actively contribute to their work and encourage them in their service?
Q7: Reflect on the application of truth and love in addressing conflicts and disagreements within the church. How can we navigate difficult conversations with grace, humility, and a commitment to biblical truth?
Q8: Explore the relevance of 3 John for our contemporary context. In what ways do its teachings and principles speak to the challenges and concerns faced by Christians today?
Q9: Discuss the character of Gaius and his commendable hospitality towards traveling missionaries. How can we emulate his example of generosity and support within our church community?
Q10: Reflect on the overarching themes and messages of 3 John. How can we apply its teachings to our lives and relationships for personal growth and spiritual maturity?
Start reading 3 John today
Explore the Book of 3 John and uncover its practical insights for Christian living. Let the lessons of truth, love, hospitality, and discernment inspire you to live out your faith boldly and authentically in today’s world.
I’m a devoted follower of Christ on a journey to share the profound love, faith, and hope found in our Savior. Through my writings, I aim to inspire, uplift, and encourage fellow believers as we walk together in God’s light. Join me in exploring the beauty of faith and discovering the richness of a life rooted in Christ. Want to connect with me? Follow me on Facebook and YouTube.
