What does 3 John 1:4 mean?
ESV: I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
NIV: I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
NASB: I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth.
CSB: I have no greater joy than this: to hear that my children are walking in truth.
NLT: I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children are following the truth.
KJV: I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.
NKJV: I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.
Verse Commentary:
John not only approves of Gaius's leadership, he says, "I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth." Gaius would have taken great comfort in John's words, especially in light of the difficult actions of Diotrephes (3 John 1:9–10). John speaks of joy in his other two letters (1 John 1:4; 2 John 1:12) and often specifically includes that word in his record of the teachings of Jesus (John 3:29; John 15:11; John 16:20–24; John 17:13). It is unclear whether John considers Gaius as one of the "children" mentioned, or if these children are the congregation Gaius leads. In either case, John rejoices—believers are living according to God's truth despite difficult times! Whatever problems may be caused by poor examples such as Diotrephes, men like Gaius and Demetrius are leading these believers well.
Verse Context:
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.
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 5/3/2024 5:33:10 PM
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