Third John contains a mere 15 verses and is written to a man named Gaius, who was probably a church leader in Asia Minor. The letter of Third John warns Gaius of Diotrephes as well as commending Demetrius.

The highlight of the letter is verse 11, which reads: “My dear friend, do not imitate what is bad, but imitate what is good. Whoever does good belongs to God; whoever does what is bad has not seen God” (3 John 11, TEV).

Like second John, this letter concludes with a similar ending: “I had many things to write, but I do not wish to write to you with pen and ink; but I hope to see you shortly, and we shall speak face to face” (3 John 13, 14).

Third John teaches us the importance of living by the truth, doing what is right and being hospitable and friendly.

Key verses:

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers” (3 John 2).

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth” (3 John 4).