Gaius Γάϊος
Recipient of John's third epistle; commended for his faithfulness.
Biography
Gaius is the recipient of John's third epistle, a short letter in which the apostle commends him for his faithfulness and hospitality. John addresses Gaius as a dear friend whom he loves in the truth (3Jn.1.1). He expresses his joy upon hearing that Gaius is walking in the truth and supporting the work of the gospel (3Jn.1.3-4). John specifically praises Gaius for his hospitality towards traveling missionaries, even though they were strangers to him (3Jn.1.5-8). This hospitality was essential for the spread of the gospel, as these missionaries relied on the support of believers like Gaius. John also mentions a certain Diotrephes who was causing problems in the church and refusing to welcome the missionaries (3Jn.1.9-10). In contrast, John encourages Gaius to continue doing what is good and not to imitate what is evil (3Jn.1.11). The letter to Gaius provides insight into the challenges and importance of hospitality and support within the early Christian community.
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script | Strong's |
|---|---|---|---|
| Named | Greek | Γάϊος | G1050J |
Gaius
John.1.2">2,5,11), "walking in the truth" (3 Joh 1:3,4), and doing "a faithful work" "toward them that are brethren and strangers withal" (3 Joh 1:5,6). He has been identified by some with the Gaius mentioned in the Apostolical Constitutions (VII, 46), as having been appointed bishop of Pergamum by John.
(2) Gaius of Macedonia, a "companion in travel" of Paul (Ac 19:29). He was one of those who were seized by Demetrius and the other silversmiths in the riot at Ephesus, during Paul's third missionary journey.
(3) Gaius of Derbe, who was among those who accompanied Paul from Greece "as far as Asia," during his third missionary journey (Ac 20:4). In the corresponding list given in the "Contendings of Paul" (compare Budge, Contendings of the Twelve Apostles, II, 592), the name of this Gaius is given as "Gallius."
(4) Gaius, the host of Paul when he wrote the Epistle to the Roman, and who joined in sending his salutations (Ro 16:23). As Paul wrote this epistle from Corinth, it is probable that this Gaius is identical with (5).
(5) Gaius, whom Paul baptized at Corinth (1Co 1:14).
C. M. Kerr
gal'-a-ad (Galaad, Greek form of Gilead (/APC 1Macc 5:9,55; Judith 1:8)).
ga'-lal (galal):
The name of two Levites, one mentioned in <