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?