The Third Letter of St. John
Hospitality and
Authority
The Gospel according to St. John is the Personal Admin Letter. Extremely short, it provides a candid look into the life of the early Church. It is a letter about Hospitality and Authority. The Gospel according to St. John writes to a beloved friend to contrast the right and wrong ways to lead a community. For Catholics, this letter is a primary source for our teaching on the Hospitality of the Faithful and the Danger of Pride.
I. Walking in Truth
I have no greater grace than this, to hear that my children walk in truth" (v. 4). This is the "Heart of a Pastor." John's greatest joy is not in numbers or prestige, but in the Spiritual Integrity of his people. For Catholics, this is a reminder that the goal of all Church activity is to produce souls who walk in the absolute Truth of Christ.
"I have no greater grace than this, to hear that my children walk in truth." (3 John 1:4) Read in Context →
II. Fellow-helpers to the Truth
The Third Letter of St. John commends Gaius for his Hospitality to traveling missionaries. He says that when we support those who work for the Gospel, we become "fellow-helpers to the truth." This is the scriptural foundation for Supporting the Missions. Every Catholic, through hospitality or support, shares in the Apostolic work of spreading the light of the Gospel.
III. The Pride of Diotrephes
In sharp contrast, John rebukes Diotrephes, a leader who "loveth to have the preeminence." He refused to receive the Apostles and "chattered" against them with malicious words. This is a sober warning about Arrogance and Discord. No leader in the Church is meant to "lord it over" the flock; they are called to be servants of the Truth above all else.
"I had written... to the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, doth not receive us." (3 John 1:9) Read in Context →
IV. Follow Not That Which is Evil
John tells Gaius: "Dearly beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good." He points to Demetrius as a good example who has "testimony from all." This is the core of Christian Mentorship. We are called to look for authentic models of holiness in the Church and to pattern our lives after those who are humble and fruitful.
V. Catholic Significance: Apostolic Authority
For Catholics, 3 John is essential for our understanding of the Local Church and its submission to Apostolic Authority. It provides the scriptural basis for the Duty of Supporting Missions. Finally, John’s desire to see Gaius "face to face" reaffirms the Incarnational Nature of our faith: we are a physical Body that meets in person for the Liturgy and fellowship.
Spiritual Tip: Today, find one way to be a 'fellow-helper to the truth.' This might mean support for a mission, or simply being hospitable to someone new in your parish. By supporting the Gospel work, you share in its fruit.
VI. Frequently Asked Questions
Who were Gaius and Diotrephes?
Gaius was a humble and hospitable leader. Diotrephes was an arrogant leader who refused to submit to Apostolic authority. Their story shows that even in the first century, the Church dealt with difficult personalities and prideful power struggles.
What is 'Prating'?
It means "talking nonsense" or gossiping maliciously. John uses it to describe Diotrephes' talk against the Apostles. It is a reminder that our Words can either build up the Church's peace or try to dismantle it through prideful chattering.