Meaning of 3 John 1:9

This verse from 3 John, penned by the Apostle John, addresses a specific instance of discord within a local church community, highlighting the destructive influence of an individual named Diotrephes. John recounts that he had previously written to the church, likely to offer guidance or address an issue, but Diotrephes, described as someone who "loves to be first," actively prevented the apostles' message from being received and consequently refused to welcome them. This refusal was not merely a personal slight but a deliberate act of opposition that disrupted the fellowship and the reception of apostolic authority within that congregation.

Context and Background

The letter of 3 John is a personal correspondence from John to his beloved Gaius, a respected member of the church who was known for his hospitality and support of traveling missionaries. In contrast to Gaius's commendable character, John contrasts Diotrephes, who represents a problematic element within the church. It appears that John, or those associated with him, had sent some brethren to minister to the church, and their reception was contingent upon Diotrephes's approval. His defiance suggests a desire for preeminence and control, overriding the established order and the directives of the apostolic leadership.

Key Themes and Messages

The primary themes here are leadership, authority, and the dangers of ego. Diotrephes's "love to be first" is a clear indicator of pride and a desire for self-aggrandizement, which directly conflicts with the humble service expected of Christian leaders. His actions demonstrate a rejection of legitimate apostolic authority and an attempt to usurp control within the church. This passage also underscores the importance of hospitality and support for those who minister in Christ's name, as exemplified by Gaius and contrasted with Diotrephes's obstructionism.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, this verse serves as a timeless warning against the sin of pride and the pursuit of personal ambition over the unity and mission of the church. When individuals prioritize their own status and influence above submission to God's ordained leadership and the needs of the community, they become a source of division and hinder the work of the Spirit. The application for believers today involves examining their own hearts for any tendencies towards arrogance or a desire to dominate, and instead cultivating a spirit of humble service, obedience to God's word, and a willingness to support fellow believers and those who labor in ministry.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This incident resonates with the broader biblical narrative concerning the struggle against sin and the importance of godly leadership. From the fall of Lucifer due to pride to the admonishments against self-importance in the Gospels and Epistles, the Bible consistently warns against the destructive nature of ego. Jesus himself emphasized servant leadership, stating in Matthew 20:26-27, "but it shall not be so among you. Whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave." Diotrephes stands as a negative example of what Christian leadership should not be, a stark contrast to the ideal presented throughout Scripture.

Analogies

One analogy to understand Diotrephes's behavior is that of a gatekeeper who, out of personal agenda, denies access to legitimate representatives of a higher authority. Imagine a king sending envoys to a distant town, and a local official, desiring to be the sole source of information and authority, refuses to let the envoys speak or be heard by the townspeople, even spreading rumors about them. Another analogy is that of a disruptive student in a classroom who constantly challenges the teacher's authority and tries to gain the attention of classmates by undermining the lesson, ultimately hindering the learning of others.

Relation to Other Verses

This verse finds echoes in several other biblical passages:

• Philippians 2:3-4: "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." This directly contrasts with Diotrephes's self-serving actions.
• 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9: These passages outline the qualifications for church leadership, emphasizing humility, self-control, and a good reputation, qualities conspicuously absent in Diotrephes.
• 1 Corinthians 1:10: "I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment." Diotrephes's actions actively promote division, contrary to this plea for unity.
• 1 Peter 5:2-3: "Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly, not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock." Diotrephes's desire to be "first" and his obstructionism clearly fall under the category of "domineering."