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Introduction to 3 John
Part 1: General Introduction
Outline of the Book of 3 John
- Introduction (1:1)
- Encouragement and Instructions to show hospitality (1:2-8)
- Diotrephes and Demetrius (1:9-12)
- Conclusion (1:13-14)
What is the Book of 3 John about?
John writes this letter to a believer named Gaius. He addresses Gaius as a friend and instructs him to be hospitable to Christian brothers who are traveling through his area.
How should the title of this book be translated?
Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, "3 John" or "Third John." Or they may choose a clearer title, such as "The Third Letter from John" or "The Third Letter John Wrote." (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names)
Who wrote the Book of 3 John?
The letter of 3 John was written by the Apostle John near the end of his life. John does not identify himself as the author, but instead calls himself "the elder" (1:1).
Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts
What is hospitality?
Hospitality was an important concept in the ancient Near East. It was important to be friendly towards a foreigner or outsiders and provide help to them if they needed it. In 2 John, John discourages Christians from showing hospitality to false teachers who oppose the Christian faith. In 3 John, John encourages Christians to show hospitality to faithful teachers.
Part 3: Important Translation Issues
How does the author use family relationships?
The author uses the terms "brother" and "Gentile" in a way that can be confusing. The Scriptures often use the term "brothers" to refer to Jews, but in this book the term is used to refer to Christians. Likewise, John calls as his "children" those whom he has trained to follow Christ. John also uses the term "Gentile" as a way to refer to those who have no faith in Jesus.