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Third John consists of only 15 total verses (14 in some translations). It is the second-shortest book in the Bible. Only 2 John has fewer verses, at 13. This sometimes leads to confusion over verses. In truth, there are no "chapters" in 3 John, but it would be confusing to refer to verses as 3 John 1, 3 John 2, etc. So, to make things easier, verses are labelled as if they are in the "first" chapter of the book.

Verse 1 begins with an introduction from "the elder," traditionally the apostle John. He writes to Gaius, whom he loves "in truth." Truth is mentioned six times in these 15 verses.

Verses 2–8 highlight the positive traits of Gaius. He treats "the brethren," traveling Christian teachers, well (3 John 1:5) and they speak highly of him among the churches (3 John 1:6). Such traveling teachers serve "for the sake of the Name" and receive no financial support from Gentiles (3 John 1:7). They are to be supported by "us" as missionaries or messengers of the truth (3 John 1:8).

Verses 9–10 speak of the evil influence of Diotrephes, a prideful church leader who disregarded the authority of Gaius and John (3 John 1:9). John hoped to personally visit to speak against him and the ungodly actions Diotrephes had committed against God's people (3 John 1:10).

Verses 11–12 mention a third individual named Demetrius. Believers are to imitate good, not evil (3 John 1:11). Demetrius has a good testimony from all people as well as "from the truth itself" (3 John 1:12). John also spoke well of him.

Verses 13–15 offer a short conclusion. John wants to meet "face to face" (3 John 1:13–14) and offers a closing benediction of peace, saying those with him send greetings and to greet their common friends by name.

Third John 1:1–8 introduces the writer as “the elder,” which tradition says is the apostle John. It specifies that the letter is meant for Gaius, who is praised for his positive reputation. In particular, Gaius is applauded for caring for missionaries and other traveling Christians. This is especially important to John, so those preaching the truth aren’t dependent on the support of non-believers.

Third John 1:9–10 condemns the behavior of a man named Diotrephes. Power and prestige were more important to this man than truth. His actions are the exact opposite of Gaius, to whom the letter is written. John praises Gaius for his hospitality, but seems eager to see Diotrephes face-to-face, so he can counter his harmful conduct. Preaching the truth sometimes involves countering those who corrupt it.

Third John 1:11–14 (15) encourages Gaius to follow good examples. In the previous verses, John condemned the actions of a man named Diotrephes. Rather than being arrogant and unwelcoming, Gaius is to follow those who seem to have “seen God.” One of these may be Demetrius, who is mentioned immediately afterwards. Third John not only emphasizes “truth,” but the importance of copying godly behaviors, not evil ones. This passage concludes his letter.

Third John is a short letter from the apostle John to a fellow Christian, Gaius. John emphasizes the importance of “truth,” which is mentioned a half-dozen times. The passage highlights the need for Christians to support each other, so that missionaries and evangelists don’t depend on the support of non-believers. John’s words also speak against church leaders who are more interested in reputation and power than submission to the truth.

Third John consists of just one chapter. This is a short letter from the apostle John to a fellow believer, Gaius. “Truth” is mentioned six times in this book's brief 15 verses. Gaius is praised for his commitment to Christian service. At the same time, John condemns the actions of Diotrephes, a church member causing problems. After mentioning the good reputation of a man named Demetrius, John closes his letter in the hope of coming to see Gaius face-to-face. This upcoming meeting seems to be why the letter is so short.