Hospitality
Though brief, the Epistle of 3 John provides a vivid and instructive account of Christian hospitality, leadership, and the balance between truth and love. It reveals a critical lesson in Christian virtue, particularly in how believers should care for those involved in the ministry of the gospel. This letter is an essential complement to 2 John, presenting a balanced perspective on hospitality—when to extend it and withhold it.
Overview: Hospitality and Truth in Action
In 3 John, the apostle John addresses three key individuals: Gaius, Diotrephes, and Demetrius. These figures represent contrasting approaches to Christian hospitality and leadership. The letter is intensely personal and reveals the early church's internal challenges and victories in embodying Christian values. The underlying theme of the letter is how believers should treat itinerant preachers and missionaries, which reflects broader principles of Christian giving, hospitality, and service.
The Apostle's Greeting to Gaius (3 John 1-4)
John begins by identifying himself as “the elder” (ὁ πρεσβύτερος), emphasizing his spiritual authority and fatherly concern for Gaius, whom he calls "the beloved" (ἀγαπητός). This affectionate greeting reveals the depth of their relationship. John expresses profound joy in hearing that Gaius is walking in the truth (v. 3-4), which may suggest that John had led Gaius to Christ, or it could imply that Gaius was under John's spiritual care.
Commending Gaius for His Hospitality (3 John 5-8)
John commends Gaius for his generous hospitality to traveling preachers and missionaries, even though they were strangers to him (v. 5-6). In the first century, the lack of safe and reliable lodging made it necessary for Christian workers to depend on the kindness of fellow believers.
The Problem with Diotrephes (3 John 9-11)
The tone of the letter shifts when John addresses Diotrephes, a person who seems to have taken an authoritarian and divisive role in the church. John mentions that he had written to the church previously, but Diotrephes rejected his letter and authority (v. 9).
The Example of Demetrius (3 John 12)
In contrast to Diotrephes, John mentions Demetrius, who has a "good testimony from everyone" and who lives following the truth (v. 12). John holds up Demetrius as an example of the kind of character and behavior that should be emulated within the church.
Application: The Art of Christian Hospitality
John’s third letter offers practical lessons for Christians today:
Hospitality as a Christian Duty: As seen in Gaius, hospitality is not just a personality trait but a spiritual duty. In Romans 12:13, Paul instructs believers to "contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality." This is part of how Christians live out their faith. When we extend hospitality, we participate in the ministry of those who proclaim the gospel, becoming fellow workers for the truth.
The Role of Christian Leaders: Diotrephes’s failure shows leadership is not about control or personal ambition but service. Christian leaders are called to lead by example, fostering an environment of love, humility, and generosity, as seen in passages like 1 Peter 5:2-3. When leaders become barriers to hospitality and truth, their actions must be corrected.
Balancing Truth and Love: Both 2 John and 3 John teach the importance of balancing truth and love. In 2 John, believers are warned against showing hospitality to false teachers (2 John 10-11), while in 3 John, believers are encouraged to support those who teach the truth. This balance is crucial for protecting the church from error while promoting the gospel.
Conclusion: Living Out the Virtue of Hospitality
The art of giving, particularly through hospitality, is central to Christian discipleship. The examples of Gaius, Diotrephes, and Demetrius remind us of the responsibility we have in supporting the work of the gospel and the dangers of pride and selfish ambition in the church. As Christians, we are called to open our homes and hearts to those who labor for the Lord, always ensuring that truth and love guide our actions. Through hospitality, we not only bless others but also participate in God's mission.