Topical Bible: Presumption: Diotrephes

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Diotrephes is a figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Third Epistle of John. His actions and attitude serve as a cautionary example of presumption within the early Christian church. The Apostle John addresses the issue of Diotrephes in 3 John 1:9-10, where he writes:

"I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not welcome us. So if I come, I will call attention to what he is doing, spreading malicious nonsense about us. Not satisfied with that, he even refuses to welcome other believers. He also stops those who want to do so and puts them out of the church." (3 John 1:9-10)

Character and Actions

Diotrephes is characterized by his desire for preeminence within the church. His love for being first suggests a prideful and self-centered nature, which leads him to reject the authority of the Apostle John and his associates. This presumption is evident in his refusal to welcome John's letter and his malicious gossip against the apostolic authority. Diotrephes' actions disrupt the unity and fellowship of the church, as he not only refuses hospitality to other believers but also excommunicates those who wish to extend such hospitality.

Theological Implications

The behavior of Diotrephes highlights the dangers of presumption and pride within the Christian community. His actions are a direct challenge to the apostolic authority established by Christ, reflecting a self-willed attitude that prioritizes personal ambition over the collective well-being of the church. This presumption undermines the biblical principles of humility, service, and submission to godly leadership.

Biblical Context

In the broader biblical context, presumption is often associated with pride and rebellion against God's established order. Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." Diotrephes' actions can be seen as a fulfillment of this proverb, as his prideful behavior leads to division and strife within the church.

Lessons for the Church

The account of Diotrephes serves as a warning to the church against the dangers of presumption and the desire for personal preeminence. It underscores the importance of humility, respect for godly authority, and the need for unity within the body of Christ. Church leaders and members alike are called to emulate the servant leadership exemplified by Christ, who "did not come to be served, but to serve" (Matthew 20:28).

In summary, Diotrephes' presumption is a cautionary tale that highlights the destructive potential of pride and self-centered ambition within the church. His example calls believers to examine their own hearts and to strive for humility, unity, and submission to the authority of Scripture and godly leadership.

Nave's Topical Index

3 John 1:9
I wrote to the church: but Diotrephes, who loves to have the preeminence among them, receives us not.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Drill and Enthusiasm
... Indeed it is a strong presumption in favour of Christianity that the Churches have
not killed it long ago. ... Diotrephes has many descendants to-day. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture g/drill and enthusiasm.htm

Introduction.
... God, is a position altogether without evidence, probability, or presumption, either
internal or ... in his second Epistle, xi.20; and like Diotrephes, mentioned by ...
//christianbookshelf.org/arnold/the christian life/introduction.htm

Differences in Judgment About Water Baptism, no Bar to Communion ...
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/differences in judgment about water.htm

On Reconciling Religious Dissensions among Christians
... John accuses Diotrephes, when he complains that "neither doth he himself receive
the ... for it, if we have not by a premature and rash presumption believed that ...
/.../the works of james arminius vol 1/oration v on reconciling religious.htm