This refers to John, the apostle and disciple of Jesus. He refers to himself as "elder" either because of his old age or because he is a leader in the church. The name of the author can be made explicit: "I, John the elder, am writing." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
## Gaius ##
This is a fellow believer to whom John is writing this letter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
## whom I love in truth ##
Alternate translation: “whom I truly love" (UDB)
## you may prosper in all things and be in health ##
"you may do well in all things and be healthy"
## just as your soul prospers ##
"just as you are doing well spiritually"
## brothers ##
"fellow believers"
## bore witness to your truth, just as you walk in truth ##
"told me that you are living according to God's truth" or "
## my children ##
John compares those he taught to believe in Jesus to children. This emphasizes his love and concern for them. Alternate translation: "my spiritual children." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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