1.1 KiB
The elder
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)