3 John 1:1-8 Gaius Commended for Benevolence and Charity

Around A.D. 70, the churches throughout the Roman province of Asia Minor were under the authority of Diotrephes, a misguided leader on a selfish agenda who, according to John, had strayed from the narrow path.

In this, his third canonized letter, the apostle John, residing in Ephesus writes words of encouragement to a struggling church.

1 The Elder, To the beloved Gaius, whom I love in truth: 2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” (3 John 1:1-2)

The author identifies himself as John, the apostle, by this time well in his senior years. His letter is addressed to Gaius, who was a fellow laborer from Derbe and traveling companion of the apostle Paul during his missionary journeys throughout the region.

Gaius was a Roman convert, baptized by Paul in Macedonia who eventually settled in Corinth where he was host to the apostle to the Gentiles as wrote his epistle to the Romans around A.D. 57.

3 For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” (3 John 1:3-4)

John had received word that Gaius was indeed walking according to the truth, advancing the gospel of Jesus Christ selflessly, which brought the aging apostle much joy and pleasure.

5 Beloved, you do faithfully whatever you do for the brethren and for strangers, 6 who have borne witness of your love before the church. If you send them forward on their journey in a manner worthy of God, you will do well, 7 because they went forth for His name’s sake, taking nothing from the Gentiles. 8 We therefore ought to receive such, that we may become fellow workers for the truth.” (3 John 1:5-8)

Because many had witnessed and testified of the loved poured out by Gaius through benevolence and charity, John is encouraged by the works of his fellow laborer in Christ, to be used as a model by which all believers should strive to glorify Yahweh, our heavenly Father. Let’s pray!

Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant John,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.

Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.

God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.

May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.

We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.

Praise God,
Amen!

This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: danielstpierre@thrivethroughchrist.com

Posted in Bible Studies.

Daniel St.Pierre