In this letter, the elder John is writing to Gaius and his house church. He praises him for his faithfulness and for raising his children as true believers. When we see the life of faith passing down to the next generation, this gives us real joy. This is a reason to be proud of our children.

Next, he thanks Gaius for welcoming disciples who came from John to share his message and to encourage the church. He encourages Gaius to keep on serving them in a manner worthy of their faith and godly character. When missionaries or coworkers come from other chapters and nations, we should whole-heartedly welcome them, serve them with hospitality, and learn from them.

John the elder cautions him against a leader in the church, Diotrephes, who is being political, and discouraging them from welcoming anyone from John. He even goes so far as to exclude from their fellowship anyone who does so, blocking John's influence over the church from superseding his. Gaius must be alert and not be pressured by him. When we see such behavior, we have to make our own decision to do what is good and right, even if we become unpopular or on the "wrong" side of politics. God will help us and bless us.


Application: Father, please help me to welcome your servants and show genuine hospitality to them. Protect our church from political struggles.
One Word: Show hospitality to God's servants