3 John 1:10

So if I come, I will call attention to his malicious slander against us. And unsatisfied with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers and forbids those who want to do so, even putting them out of the church.

Study Bible

So if I come, I will call attention to his malicious slander against us.
The Apostle John is addressing the issue of Diotrephes, a leader in the early church who is causing division. The phrase "if I come" indicates John's intention to visit and personally address the situation, reflecting the apostolic authority he holds. The term "malicious slander" suggests that Diotrephes is spreading false and harmful statements, which is a serious offense in the Christian community. This echoes the biblical principle found in Proverbs 6:16-19, where sowing discord among brethren is listed as something God hates. The early church faced many challenges, including false teachings and internal strife, and John's role as an apostle was to maintain doctrinal purity and unity.

And unsatisfied with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers
Diotrephes' refusal to welcome the brothers, likely itinerant preachers or missionaries, goes against the early Christian practice of hospitality, which was crucial for the spread of the Gospel. Hospitality is emphasized in passages like Hebrews 13:2 and 1 Peter 4:9, where believers are encouraged to show love and support to fellow Christians. This refusal indicates a lack of love and a breach of the communal values that were foundational to the early church. It also reflects a power struggle, as Diotrephes seeks to control who is allowed to participate in the community.

and forbids those who want to do so,
Diotrephes not only refuses hospitality himself but also prevents others from showing it. This authoritarian behavior disrupts the unity and fellowship of the church. It highlights the danger of leaders who prioritize personal power over the well-being of the community. This action is contrary to the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized servant leadership (Mark 10:42-45). The early church was built on mutual support and encouragement, as seen in Acts 2:42-47, and Diotrephes' actions undermine this foundation.

even putting them out of the church.
Excommunicating those who wish to show hospitality is an extreme measure that reveals the extent of Diotrephes' control and the severity of the situation. This act of putting people out of the church is reminiscent of the Pharisees' actions in John 9:22, where fear of being expelled from the synagogue kept people from confessing Jesus as the Christ. It underscores the importance of church discipline being exercised with love and truth, as outlined in Matthew 18:15-17. The early church had to navigate the balance between maintaining doctrinal purity and extending grace, a challenge that continues in various forms today.

Persons / Places / Events

1. John the Apostle
The author of the letter, an elder in the early church, writing to address issues within the church community.

2. Diotrephes
A church leader who is causing division by rejecting John's authority, spreading malicious slander, and refusing hospitality to fellow believers.

3. The Brothers
Likely itinerant missionaries or teachers who were traveling to spread the Gospel and relied on the hospitality of local believers.

4. The Church
The local congregation where Diotrephes holds influence, which is experiencing conflict due to his actions.

5. Gaius
The recipient of the letter, commended by John for his faithfulness and hospitality, in contrast to Diotrephes.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride and Self-Exaltation
Diotrephes' actions stem from a desire for preeminence, which leads to division and harm within the church. Believers must guard against pride and seek humility.

The Importance of Accountability in Leadership
Church leaders must be held accountable for their actions. John's intention to confront Diotrephes serves as a model for addressing misconduct in leadership.

The Call to Hospitality and Support for Fellow Believers
Hospitality is a vital expression of Christian love and support. Believers are encouraged to welcome and support those who labor for the Gospel.

The Role of Church Discipline
Proper church discipline is necessary to maintain the integrity and unity of the church. It should be exercised with love and a desire for restoration.

The Power of Slander and the Need for Truth
Slander can cause significant damage within the church. Believers must be committed to truth and resist the temptation to spread falsehoods.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Diotrephes' behavior contrast with the biblical model of leadership and hospitality?

2. What steps can we take to ensure accountability and integrity within our church leadership?

3. In what ways can we practice hospitality in our own lives, especially towards those who are serving in ministry?

4. How should we respond when we encounter slander or false accusations within the church community?

5. How can the principles of church discipline outlined in Matthew 18:15-17 be applied in a loving and restorative manner today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Timothy 5:19-20
This passage discusses the proper handling of accusations against church leaders, emphasizing the need for accountability and public rebuke when necessary.

Matthew 18:15-17
Jesus outlines the process for addressing sin within the church, which includes confronting the individual and, if necessary, bringing the matter before the church.

1 Peter 5:2-3
Peter instructs church leaders to shepherd the flock willingly and not domineeringly, contrasting with Diotrephes' behavior.

Romans 12:10
Encourages believers to show brotherly love and honor one another, which Diotrephes fails to do.

Hebrews 13:2
Reminds believers to show hospitality, as some have entertained angels without knowing it, highlighting the importance of welcoming fellow believers.