Commentary on the Book of 3 John

3 John is the shortest book in the entire Bible (by word count in the Greek Textus Receptus and Hebrew Masoretic Text). While 2 John has fewer verses than 3 John (13 vs. 14), 3 John is typically considered the shortest book in the Bible based on word count. In the original Greek, 3 John contains 219 words compared to 2 John's 245 words, or 995 letters versus 1069.

3 John is a personal letter from "the elder" (presumably the Apostle John) to a man named Gaius. This brief epistle provides a window into the dynamics of early Christian communities and leadership.

Verses 1-4: Greeting and Commendation of Gaius

The letter opens with a warm greeting to Gaius, whom the author loves "in the truth." John expresses joy at hearing about Gaius's faithfulness.

1 The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth. 2 Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. 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. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. (3 John 1-4, KJV)

This greeting reflects the close relationships within early Christian communities and the elder's pastoral concern for Gaius's overall well-being - spiritual, physical, and material.

Verses 5-8: Praise for Gaius's Hospitality

John commends Gaius for his faithfulness in caring for traveling brothers, even those who are strangers.

5 Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers; 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: 7 Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles. 8 We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth. (3 John 5-8, KJV)

This section highlights the importance of hospitality in early Christian communities, especially for itinerant preachers and missionaries. By supporting such workers, Gaius is seen as one of the "fellowhelpers to the truth."

Verses 9-10: Criticism of Diotrephes

John then addresses a problem in the church: a man named Diotrephes who loves to be first and refuses to welcome the brothers.

9 I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not. 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. (3 John 9-10, KJV)

This passage reveals conflicts within early Christian communities and the misuse of leadership positions. Diotrephes represents a stark contrast to Gaius's hospitality and faithfulness.

Verses 11-12: Exhortation and Commendation of Demetrius

John exhorts Gaius to imitate good, not evil. He then commends another man, Demetrius, who has received a good testimony from everyone and from the truth itself.

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. 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. (3 John 11-12, KJV)

These verses encapsulate a core principle of Christian ethics: the idea that one's actions reflect one's relationship with God. Demetrius is presented as a positive example to follow, in contrast to Diotrephes.

Verses 13-14: Conclusion

13 I had many things to write, but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee: 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. (3 John 13-14, KJV)

Similar to 2 John, this conclusion emphasizes the personal nature of early Christian leadership and the value placed on face-to-face communication.

Key Themes and Significance

The letter provides insight into the practical challenges faced by early Christian communities, including issues of leadership, support for missionaries, and conflicts within the church.

Conclusion

3 John, though the shortest book in the Textus Receptus, offers valuable insights into early Christian community life and leadership. It presents both positive and negative examples of Christian behavior, emphasizing the practical outworking of faith in love, hospitality, and support for the spread of the gospel. The letter serves as a reminder that even in the earliest days of the church, communities faced internal conflicts and the challenge of living out their faith in practical ways.