What does 3 John 1:7 mean?
ESV: For they have gone out for the sake of the name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles.
NIV: It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans.
NASB: For they went out for the sake of the Name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles.
CSB: since they set out for the sake of the Name, accepting nothing from pagans.
NLT: For they are traveling for the Lord, and they accept nothing from people who are not believers.
KJV: Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.
NKJV: because they went forth for His name’s sake, taking nothing from the Gentiles.
Verse Commentary:
John defines these traveling Christian teachers by two traits. First, these missionaries had the right motives. The name" of Jesus was their reason for serving and traveling. They were not motivated by fame, pride, or greed. False teachers would travel so they could benefit from the resources of others. In contrast, godly men served from a strong sense of calling. John also refers to their financial sacrifices. The Greek word ethnikos is translated here as "Gentiles," or "pagans," but is uncommon in the New Testament. It is only used here, in Matthew 5:47, Matthew 6:7, and Matthew 18:17. The term is very generic, but in this context almost certainly refers to non–believers. Most of the Christians where Gaius lived were likely non–Jewish (literally "Gentiles"). The traveling teachers took no money from non–believers for their work, but relied on Christians in local churches for support.
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 5/5/2024 1:50:24 PM
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