3 John is very similar to 2 John in contents and in length, but the recipient is clearly an individual whom John loved. There are quite a few Gaiuses in the New Testament, so it not wise to speculate who he is. Early church writings did not really provide any solid evidence as to his identity. There is one thing for sure, Gaius was a leader of a local church.
(1) John opens his greeting with “I love you in the truth”(v. 1).
a. We understand that Gaius is deeply loved by John, but why does John talk about truth at least seven times in this letter? ( “true” is a variation of the word “truth” as well in Greek)
(2) John prays for both the well-being of Gaius’ body and soul. (v. 2)
a. Is it because Gaius is getting old or of ill health?
b. Or, is this the way we should pray for one another in Christ (or in the truth)?
(3) John takes Gaius as one of his (spiritual) children (v. 4).
a. In commending his faithfulness, what is the first thing that John give praise to?
b. What does it tell you about a pastor’s heart or the goal of discipleship?
(4) There is a second thing that John commends him of his faithfulness (vv. 5-8):
a. What is it?
b. Who are these strangers? (vv. 7-8)
c. How should we treat these people? (vv. 6, 8)
d. Why? (vv. 7-8)
(5) How might you follow this particular teaching of hospitality?
(6) But the opposite example is set by Diotrephes (vv. 9-11)
a. While we know nothing about him, what position does he occupy that he can put people of out of the church?
b. John had previously written to the church. What kind of reception did he receive from Diotrephes?
c. Why did Diotrephes treat John and others so badly?
d. Does John consider Diotrephes is a believer? Why? (v. 11)
(7) We do not know who Demetrius is either, but he is mentioned likely because he is the bearer of the letter and needs to be shown hospitality.
a. "Demetrius is well spoken of by everyone—and even by 'the truth itself'." What is meant by this?
(8) Given all that is said about truth, do you have a clearer sense of why John emphasizes it so much?
(9) What is the main message to you today and how may you apply it to your life?
“We ought therefore to show hospitality to such people so that we may work together for the truth.” (3 John 8)
Since Christian Hospitality is one of the main themes of III John, allow me to share with you the early apostolic teachings in this respect based on the “Didache” (Teaching of the Twelve Apostles) which is dated by scholars to be a late 1st century document, as summed up by John Stott:
“Instructions are given that an ‘apostle’ may not stay beyond one day or, ‘in case of necessity’, two. ‘If he stays three days, he is a false prophet’ (11:5). On departing, he may receive enough food to last him his journey. But ‘if he asks for money, he is a false prophet’ (11:6). Again, if a prophet, apparently speaking under the inspiration of the Spirit, says ‘give me money, or something else’, he is not to be heeded unless the money is ‘for others in need’ (11:12). It is recognized that true prophets have a right to stay and be supported (13), but an ordinary Christian traveler must not be entertained free for more than two or three days (12:2). If he wants to settle, ‘he must work for his living ... If he refuses to do this, he is trading on Christ’ (12:3-5).” (TNTC, Letters of John, 220-1)
While reading the above may bring a smile to you, it highlights the fact that Christian charity is often abused, even during the time of the apostles. While times have changed, many of the principles above are still prudent guides for the church as we seek to take care of the needy among us today.