Lord’s Library editors created this introductory guide to the Gospel in 3 John to showcase how the Scriptures reveal salvation by grace through faith in 3 John.
The Third Epistle of John, attributed to the Apostle John, is a brief and personal letter addressed to Gaius, a beloved member of the early Christian community. Though short, this letter provides valuable insights into the practical outworking of the Gospel in the lives of believers, particularly concerning hospitality, support for traveling missionaries, and the integrity of church leadership. Central to 3 John is the message that walking in the truth of the Gospel leads to a life of love, faithfulness, and generosity.
A central theme in 3 John is the importance of walking in the truth. John expresses great joy upon hearing that Gaius is living according to the truth, stating, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth” (3 John 1:4). This emphasis on walking in the truth reflects the Gospel’s transformative power, which leads believers to live lives consistent with the teachings of Christ. The truth of the Gospel is not merely a set of beliefs but a way of life that manifests in actions and relationships.
The letter also highlights the importance of hospitality and support for fellow believers, particularly those engaged in missionary work. John commends Gaius for his faithful support of traveling teachers and missionaries, noting, “Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers” (3 John 1:5). This encouragement underscores the practical implications of the Gospel, which calls believers to show love and support for one another, especially those laboring to spread the message of Christ.
The Gospel in 3 John
The Gospel in 3 John Showcased in Scripture
- 3 John 1:3-4: “For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.”
3 John 1:3-4 expresses joy in hearing that members of the church are living in the truth. The writer, John, conveys his great delight in knowing that his spiritual children are walking in accordance with the truth.
- 3 John 1:11: “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.”
3 John 1:11 advises the recipient not to imitate what is evil, but what is good. It asserts that whoever does good is of God, while whoever does evil has not seen God.
These verses emphasize the importance of walking in truth and doing good, reflecting the transformative power of living out the Gospel message. While 3 John does not directly address salvation by grace through faith in the finished work of Christ on the cross, it underscores the practical outworking of those who are living in accordance with the truth of the Gospel.
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Furthermore, 3 John addresses issues of church leadership and integrity. John contrasts the behavior of Diotrephes, who seeks to dominate the church and refuses to welcome the brethren, with the commendable actions of Gaius and Demetrius. John warns against such divisive and controlling behavior, highlighting the importance of humility, love, and cooperation within the Christian community. This emphasis on godly leadership reflects the Gospel’s call to servant leadership and mutual respect among believers.
As we delve into these key aspects, it becomes clear that 3 John, though concise, offers a rich presentation of the Gospel’s practical impact. The epistle emphasizes the necessity of living in truth, demonstrating love through hospitality and support, and maintaining integrity and humility in church leadership. Through its personal and practical exhortations, 3 John provides a compelling vision of the Christian life, rooted in the truth of the Gospel and expressed through genuine love and faithful service to others.
Lord's Library is a Christian resource hub. Our editors use a variety of internet research methods like search engines, audio and video, AI, consultations with ministry leaders in the field, and more. Lord's Library should never be a substitute for reading your Bible daily as the Scriptures are to be our final authority on all matters. Lord's Library participates in affiliate programs. We may make a small commission from products purchased through this resource.
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