3 John

3 John 1:9

Self-exalting leadership opposes the truth and undermines the life of the church.

3 John 1:9 (WEB)

9 I wrote to the assembly, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first among them, doesn’t accept what we say.

Central Idea

Self-exalting leadership opposes the truth and undermines the life of the church.

Authorial Intent

To expose the disruptive conduct of Diotrephes who rejects apostolic authority and refuses to receive the elder's instruction.

Historical Context

Diotrephes appears to have been a prominent figure within a local congregation who resisted apostolic correspondence and attempted to control the church's reception of traveling Christian workers.

Chapter: 3 John 1

Walking in the Truth Through Faithful Hospitality

The truth of Christ must be walked, welcomed, defended, and embodied in humble fellowship rather than obstructed by prideful control.