Third John is short and sweet. Again, the theme is the truth and walking in it. But there is trouble in the church, not just outside of it. Even at this early stage when you would think the aura of the first hand witness of the death and resurrection of Christ would still be fresh in their hearts and minds, the church is embroiled in arguments and factions. How would you like to be Diotrephes?! Mentioned in Scripture for all of time as “one who puts himself first, not acknowledging spiritual authority (the apostles), and spreading false charges, and not welcoming friends.” Wow! That is a major indictment.
I wonder how I would be described in a letter about my church? What would my leadership be characterized by? How does my life match up against apostolic authority–for me the written word of God? And what kind of word am I “spreading?” This is a question every believe ought to ponder because some day we will give an account (2 Cor. 5:10). It will not be recorded in a book. It will be given before the living and ready-to-reign-forever Christ. I pray that the Holy Spirit will work in me so that I will be found faithful.