3 John 1

John's Greeting to Gaius

1 The Elder, to the beloved Gaius, whom I love in truth. 2 Beloved, concerning everything, I desire that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers.

Gaius Faithfulness Brings Great Joy

3 For I rejoiced exceedingly, when the brothers came and testified of the truth that is in you, even as you walk in the truth. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear these things; that my children are walking in truth.

5 Beloved, you are faithful in the work that you are doing for the brothers and sisters, and for strangers; 6 and they have testified of your love before the congregation.

You have done well in sending them forward on their journey in a manner worthy of God. 

7 Because for his name's sake they went out, taking nothing from those of the ethnic peoples: 8 therefore we should receive such, that we may be co-workers with them in the truth.

Diotrephes and Demetrius

9 I wrote to the congregation: but Diotrephes, who loves to have the preeminence among them, wouldn’t receive us. 10 Because of this, if I come, I will bring the works he does into remembrance; ranting against us with hurtful words. And not being satisfied with these, he also refused to receive the brothers and sisters, and stops those who wanted to, and throws them out of the congregation.

11 Beloved, don’t imitate that which is bad, but that which is good. The one who does good is of God, but the one who does bad things has not seen God.

12 Demetrius has a good testimony from everyone, and from the truth itself. And we also add our testimony, and you know that our testimony is true.

John's Final Greeting

13 I had many things to write, but I didn't want to write to you with ink and pen: 14 But I anticipate to see you shortly, and we will speak face to face.  (Literally, mouth to mouth)

Peace be with you. Our friends embrace you. Embrace the friends by name.