What does 3 John 1:12 mean?
ESV: Demetrius has received a good testimony from everyone, and from the truth itself. We also add our testimony, and you know that our testimony is true.
NIV: Demetrius is well spoken of by everyone--and even by the truth itself. We also speak well of him, and you know that our testimony is true.
NASB: Demetrius has received a good testimony from everyone, and from the truth itself; and we testify too, and you know that our testimony is true.
CSB: Everyone speaks well of Demetrius--even the truth itself. And we also speak well of him, and you know that our testimony is true.
NLT: Everyone speaks highly of Demetrius, as does the truth itself. We ourselves can say the same for him, and you know we speak the truth.
KJV: Demetrius hath good report of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, and we also bear record; and ye know that our record is true.
NKJV: Demetrius has a good testimony from all, and from the truth itself. And we also bear witness, and you know that our testimony is true.
Verse Commentary:
Demetrius is mentioned in just this one verse of the Bible, yet it is rich in impact! First, Demetrius was widely known among believers as a godly man. Second, his life was consistent with God's truth. Third, Demetrius received praise from Christian leaders, including the apostle John himself. In a society where oral testimony held strong value, John's affirmation was a glowing endorsement of Demetrius's spiritual success. Even today, the endorsement of another Christian leader serves as strong evidence of a godly life. The example of Demetrius is a stark contrast to that of Diotrephes (3 John 1:9–10), who is not to be imitated. In fact, his actions are so harmful that even the elderly apostle John plans to come and confront him face-to-face.
Verse Context:
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.
Chapter Summary:
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.
Chapter Context:
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.
Book Summary:
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.
Accessed 5/2/2024 4:32:00 AM
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