3 John 1-8 – Living authentically

In 3 John, the author again referred to himself as “the elder”.  This suggests to us that he is the same one who had written 2 John. However, we are not as clear regarding Gaius, the recipient of this epistle. Nonetheless, from this writing, we safely conclude that he was a Christian brother whom John loved dearly. This is evident by the way John mentioned him as one “whom I love in truth”.  

Verse 2 tells us that Gaius was doing well spiritually and was walking in the light. As a good friend, John prayed that everything would go well with him. He prayed that he would prosper in every way, and even his physical health. He wished that every area of Gaius’ life would be as healthy as his spiritual life. Besides, he was glad to hear from other believers that Gaius was such a good witness to the truth, and that he was living authentically as a believer. Here John revealed how intensely he would guard the truth, that nothing could give him more joy than to hear of God’s children walking in the truth. We get a sense here that Gaius was such a truth loving, godly man.

Not only was Gaius a godly man He was also a generous man. Verses 5 to 8 tell us so. Here, He was commended for his love and generosity toward the brethren. This letter was written to encourage him to continue being hospitable and to show that wonderful virtue of love. The number of times John used the word “beloved” showed how affectionately he felt toward Gaius, who not only hosted brethren in his home but also those brethren he was not familiar with. How he had treated brethren with such loving hospitality had bore good witness of his godliness. Gaius had truly acted in a manner worthy of a witness of God. The people he hosted were mainly missionaries who went out to spread that Name, meaning the Lord Jesus. These missionaries did not receive any financial support from the Gentiles. Hence, John was glad that Gaius was providing some support for them. He encouraged Gaius by telling him that in contributing to the workers, he was in effect participating in the mission of spreading the truth.

Right perspective of self will determine how we live our lives. Gaius truly knew who he was in Christ. And that enabled him to live right, act right and relate right. All these must have meant a great deal to him. Now what about us? Are we living a life that reflects the Lord? Are we aware that we are God’s emissaries in the world today? We are called to be His witnesses to spread the news that in Christ, God is still reconciling the world to Himself. Like Gaius, we must make authentic living our second nature.