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3 John
Overview

Authorship: John, the Apostle

Recipient: Gaius (v.1)

Date: ~ A.D. 80 – 90

Place: Ephesus?

Purpose: To encourage fellowship with Christian brothers

  • 1 John: Discusses fellowship with God

  • 2 John: Forbids fellowship with false teachers

Theme: Contrast between the truth and servanthood of Gaius and the error and selfishness of Diotrephes.

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*Charts from Talk thru the Bible by Bruce Wilkinson & Kenneth Boa

Flee from evil, follow what is good!
Read 3 John. Which part of 3 John inspires you the most?
  1. Gaius the Encourager: Gaius was a brother with good testimony who walked in the truth (vv.3-4). He showed hospitality and love to Christian workers and even to strangers (vv.5-8). There is no evidence that Gaius was a preacher, but his hospitality and supports for fellow Christians made him a fellow worker for the truth (ESV v.8). Not everyone could be a preacher or could takes an active role in the ministry; however, there are many different ways that we could serve. In what capacity have you been involving in the ministry? Be creative and think of some unconventional ways that you could serve in the ministry (e.g. pray, send “care packages” to missionaries, serve meals, give, babysit for ministers, etc.).

  2. Diotrephes the Dictator: Diotrephes brought false charges against Apostle John and his coworkers, refused hospitality, and even forced other believers to be inhospitable (v.10). John reminded Gaius, as well as us, not to imitate what is evil but what is good (v.11). Name some of the negative influences around you (e.g. unwholesome speeches, critical attitudes, gossiping, materialism, etc.), and think of ways that you could break away from these influences.

  3. Your own insight: (fill in yourself) 

Meditation and Application:

Meditate on the above questions along with the necessary actions. Focus on fleeing from evil and following what is good.

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