v1-2
The prayerful introduction; John loved and respected Gaius.
V3-8
The commendation of Gaius. He was walking in the truth, bringing joy to
John, see 2 John 4. This was an evidence of spiritual life, and John holds him
up as an example to others. John is writing to one he had won to Christ, and
discipled. Now Gaius served God by showing unselfish concern for others, in
showing hospitality to the brethren, and to strangers. Such hospitality is part
of the way in which we work together for the truth.
V9-10 The
bad example of Diotrephes. John had previously written to the church, but
Diotrephes rejected the apostle and his letter, and so John felt compelled to
write to Gaius. Diotrephes maintained some authority in the church, although it
is clear that he had misused it.
Diotrephes loved to be first, to have the pre-eminence, seeking attention
and praise, and followers for himself. Contrast Col 1.18, for Christ is to be
pre-eminent in the church.
Within the church, we
may see a person who is unwilling to be submissive; he will be involved, but
only on his terms, as long as things are done his way. In contrast, there is the
gracious and submissive attitude, willing to prefer others, putting their needs
first, not grumbling when others have their way.
Diotrephes had
“nothing to do with us,” attacking God’s appointed leaders. He knew who
John was, but was unwilling to respect his authority. John was planning to
expose him, calling attention to what he was doing.
It is good to have a
teachable spirit, willing to learn from others.
Diotrephes gossiped
maliciously about John and his companions, intending evil, designed to cause
hurt. Even if a man speaks the truth, but intends harm, then he is speaking
maliciously. It reveals a lack of love, and an unholy attitude.
It is better to
minister grace (Eph 4.29), seeking to build others up.
Diotrephes did not
welcome the brethren, despising true Christians. He had his own small group of
friends, who were doubtless powerful within the church, and had little time for
others. He had even put some out of the church. When others wanted to receive
the brethren, he forbade them.
John’s description
of Diotrephes seems to match Jesus’ words in Luke 9.46-56; Jesus rebuked those
who would not welcome others, and those who criticised other disciples, and
those who wanted to judge others.
V11
How should we respond to what we see? We must imitate the good, and
carefully avoid the bad. The one who does good is “from God.” The reader may
note Diotrephes’ bad example, but is clearly commanded to follow what is good.
V12
Demetrius was another good example. He was blameless before the saints.
The truth commends such a person, for he comes to the light, proving that his
deeds have been done in God (John 3.21).