1. Gaius, who walks in the truth (1-8)

What does it mean to be faithful to the truth? According to John's letter to Gaius, walking in the truth means faithfully loving our brothers in Christ without mixing in false or impure motives. Gaius even showed love and generous hospitality to strangers who were only passing through. He did this, not with some political motive or some hope of receiving personal benefit, but simply for Jesus' sake, because the visitors were servants of God. Acting in love, for the sake of Jesus alone is walking in the truth.

2. Diotrephes, who loves to be first (9-14)

Diotrephes evidently was full of personal ambition. Because he wanted to be number one, he was very narrow and critical of others. He did not welcome God's servants. We must imitate what is good, not what is evil.

Application: Lord, help me to walk according to the truth. Give me a heart that is always open to accept your children.
One Word: Gaius or Diotrephes?