What Big Lessons Can We Learn from the Little Book of 3 John? Ep. 1455: Christian Questions Podcast

[00:04:55] Why is walking in the truth so important to John?

[00:13:30] Why does John treat hospitality toward traveling Christians as essential to the gospel itself?

[00:26:04] What kind of person was Diotrephes ?

[00:39:41] Why does Demetrius receive such a strong three-part testimony?

Some of the most significant lessons can come from the smallest things. The Bible is a big book made up of 66 books. The shortest of those 66 books is the book of 3rd John. This letter consisting of less than 300 words, was written to a Christian named Gaius. John describes him as a disciple whose life and example are truly Christlike. John then sharply contrasts him with another Christian leader whose example is exactly the opposite as he seemingly dominates those around him. As John ends this letter, he brings in the example of a third Christian as a contrast for Gaius to observe. These three examples show us the depths of Christian character, the power of biblical truth, the danger of mixing pride and power in with discipleship and the impact of leading by example.

Gaius

After introducing Gaius as a model of truth and love, this episode walks through how John builds his encouragement by pointing to Gaius’ consistent, observable faithfulness. The brethren testified that Gaius “walked in truth,” meaning his convictions shaped every part of his life. His hospitality toward traveling Christians was a tangible expression of the gospel itself. In the early church, believers depended on one another for lodging, meals and safety, and Gaius’ generosity became a witness others carried home. John reminds us that supporting faithful workers makes us