3 John 1–4

1 John identifies himself simply as “the elder,” as he did in 2 John, highlighting his pastoral role. More striking is his repetition of terms for love in regard to Gaius. He is “beloved” and one “whom I love in truth.” Then, three more times in the letter Gaius is addressed as “Beloved” (vv. 2, 5, 11). Some translations render this Greek word (agapētos) as “dear friend,” but this is too weak, even if “beloved” is less commonly used today. There is no need to see these terms as mere formality, particularly in these letters that stress so often the importance of Christian love. John not only urges deep love for fellow believers—he also exemplifies it.

We do not know anything about Gaius beyond what is mentioned in this letter. This was a common name, and it is unlikely that this is the same Gaius mentioned by Paul in 1 Corinthians 1:14 and Romans 16:23. John says he loves Gaius “in truth.” As noted in 2 John, “in truth” conveys the sincerity of John’s love, but even more it shows that the love shared between these friends is rooted in the truth revealed in Jesus Christ. Real friendship is always rooted in a common bond, whether fleeting or significant. This friendship is rooted in ultimate truth.

2 A health wish or prayer was common in the opening of Greco-Roman letters, as it still is in letters today. John prays for good health and overall well-being for Gaius in keeping with the health of Gaius’s soul. The word translated “soul” here (psychē) refers not to the immaterial in contrast to the material but to the whole of life. In Christian usage this would include one’s relationship with God. Thus, John prays for Gaius’s health and well-being in all aspects of life. This comprehensiveness in prayer is helpful in light of imbalances that are all too common. Some prosperity teachers have seized on this verse as supporting the idea that faithful Christians should expect good health at all times. Such is a terrible misreading of this verse, as well as the rest of Scripture, particularly since we rest our faith on the suffering of an innocent Messiah.

3 Some fellow believers (“brothers”) have told John about Gaius’s faithful living. As elsewhere in John’s letters, “truth” is not merely an idea but is something to be lived. Gaius’s “truth” mentioned here refers to his behavior, as is clarified by the following phrase, “walking in the truth.” Gaius is living in accord with the truths proclaimed in Christianity. This causes John to “rejoice greatly.” All who truly love God’s truth find great joy in seeing others live out this truth.

4 John says it is his greatest joy to hear that his “children” (believers he has pastored and instructed) are living faithfully. This is the heart of a pastor, and it should be the heart of every believer. If we love people and love God’s truth, we will rejoice greatly when people live out this truth.