Key Verse Spotlight
3 John 1:9 - Meaning and Application
Understand how this verse speaks to what you're facing and how to apply it today
Translation: World English Bible — Catholic Edition
" I wrote to the assembly, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first among them, doesn’t accept what we say. "
3 John 1:9
Verse in Context
Understanding the surrounding verses prevents misinterpretation:
7 because for the sake of the Name they went out, taking nothing from the Gentiles.
8 We therefore ought to receive such, that we may be fellow workers for the truth.
9 I wrote to the assembly, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first among them, doesn’t accept what we say.
10 Therefore, if I come, I will call attention to his deeds which he does, unjustly accusing us with wicked words. Not content with this, he doesn’t receive the brothers himself, and those who would, he forbids and throws out of the assembly.
11 Beloved, don’t imitate that which is evil, but that which is good. He who does good is of God. He who does evil hasn’t seen God.
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Diotrephes, unlike Gaius, loved to have the highest place and would not submit to apostolic authority. He spread harmful lies and refused to receive John’s letter. He also tried to stop others from welcoming the brothers, and he put out of the church those who wanted to show hospitality. John says he will deal with this behavior when he comes.
John then warns believers not to copy Diotrephes’ evil example. Instead, they should imitate what is good. Those who do good show that they belong to God, while those who do evil have not truly seen God.
From This Chapter
3 John 1:1
"The elder to Gaius the beloved, whom I love in truth."
3 John 1:2
"Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be healthy, even as your soul prospers."
3 John 1:3
"For I rejoiced greatly when brothers came and testified about your truth, even as you walk in truth."
3 John 1:4
"I have no greater joy than this: to hear about my children walking in truth."
3 John 1:5
"Beloved, you do a faithful work in whatever you accomplish for those who are brothers and strangers."
3 John 1:6
"They have testified about your love before the assembly. You will do well to send them forward on their journey in a way worthy of God,"
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