Book Study: Third John

Book Overview

The book of 3 John is a short letter written by the apostle John to his friend Gaius, commending him for his faithfulness and hospitality toward traveling missionaries. John highlights the importance of supporting those who spread the gospel, contrasting Gaius’s generosity with the arrogance of Diotrephes, who refuses to welcome the brothers and even opposes those who do. John warns against such behavior and encourages believers to imitate what is good, not evil. He also commends Demetrius, a faithful brother with a good testimony, as an example to follow. The letter emphasizes the value of truth, love, and practical support in Christian fellowship. John closes by expressing his desire to visit Gaius in person, underscoring the relational nature of ministry and the importance of face‑to‑face encouragement. Though brief, 3 John reinforces themes of hospitality, discernment, and steadfastness in the truth.

Brief Chapter Summaries

Chapter 1

John commends Gaius for faithful hospitality, warns against Diotrephes’s arrogance, and praises Demetrius’s good testimony, urging believers to imitate good, support gospel workers, and remain steadfast in truth and love.

Key Verses

3 John 1:11

“Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. The one who does good is of God; the one who does evil has not seen God.”

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