Main Highlights
Encouragement for showing hospitality to fellow believers and a rebuke of Diotrephes's self-seeking behavior.
Key Verses
Beloved, you are acting faithfully in whatever you accomplish for the brothers and sisters, and especially when they are strangers;- 3 John 1:5
For they went out for the sake of the Name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles.- 3 John 1:7
I wrote something to the church; but Diotrephes, who loves to hold the preeminence among them, does not accept us.- 3 John 1:9
Related Scripture
Do not neglect hospitality, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.- Hebrews 13:2
Scholar Insight
"3 John highlights the importance of hospitality and support for those who are serving Christ, while also addressing the problem of leadership that is motivated by self-interest rather than love. - D.A. Carson, An Introduction to the New Testament (Zondervan, 2007)"
Theological Analysis
What we learn about God
God's character is reflected in the hospitality and support that believers show to one another, particularly to those who are serving in His name (3 John 1:5).
Christological Connection
Those who went out ministered "for the sake of the Name," referring to the name of Jesus (3 John 1:7).
Systematic Theology
Ecclesiology, the doctrine of the church, is evident in the instruction regarding hospitality and leadership within the church community (3 John 1:9).
Law & Grace
Hospitality offered to others is an act of grace. The love that prompts hospitality is the fulfillment of the law (3 John 1:5).
Personal Application
Believers should practice hospitality, support those who are serving in Christ's name, and avoid seeking self-importance like Diotrephes (3 John 1:11).