SCRIPTURE: 3 JOHN
INTRODUCTION:
Third John was written to Gaius, a friend of John and a leader in the church. A member of the church name Diotrephes refused to welcome God’s messenger. So Gaius scolded Diotrephes and John praise and thank Gaius for his help.
BIBLE VERSE:
“Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.” (3 John v. 11)
John was happy to see Gaius’ love and faithfulness to the Lord and his continued walk in the truth. He mentioned about Diotrephes who was gossiping maliciously and refused to welcome brothers. In fact, he also hindered those who want to do so and put them out of the church. John praise Demetrius for his good testimony.John wanted to see Gaius face to face in the near future and he sent him and his friends greetings of peace.
THOUGHT:
John mentioned 2 church members namely Diotrephes and Demetrius. Both have different personalities. Diotrephes was a gossiper and refused to welcome God’s servant while Demetrius was a man well spoken of. He loved and lived with the truth. He helped to make the local church healthy. Which one do you like to imitate?
COMPARISON OF 3 MEMBERS OF THE LOCAL CHURCHES:
- Gaius – A hospitable Christian who was faithful to God’s truth. He shared love by helping the strangers. He practised hospitality to traveling preachers and missionaries.
- Diotrephes – A self-centered Christian who wanted to control the church. He refused to acknowledge the leadership of pastors by attacking their character and condemning their ministry. He refused to welcome pastors and stopped members who did. He excommunicated members who opposed his leadership without being heard by the congregation.
- Demetrius – A model Christian with good report from the saints. He knew and practise the truth. His life had a good testimony for believers to follow.
HOW TO SHOW SUPPORT TO GOD’S WORKER?
- hospitality
- encouragement
- financial support
- gift of appreciation
- prayer
May we learn to support our pastor. It is the church’s responsibility to care for Christian workers. By supporting someone who is spreading the Good news, you become a partner in the ministry.