The Book of 3 John, written by the Apostle John around 85-95 CE, is a personal letter to Gaius, commending him for his hospitality to traveling Christian missionaries. John encourages Gaius to continue in the truth and to imitate good examples, while also warning against the divisive behavior of Diotrephes, a church leader who rejected John's authority.
3 John From Man’s Perspective:
From man’s perspective, 3 John is a letter about hospitality, leadership, and supporting the work of the gospel. It commends Gaius for his faithfulness and challenges Diotrephes for his divisive behavior.
3 John From God’s Perspective:
From God’s perspective, 3 John encourages believers to live in truth, love, and support of one another. It highlights the importance of Christian hospitality and the role of leadership in maintaining unity within the church.
3 John From Historical Perspective:
Historically, 3 John provides insight into the early church's structure and leadership struggles. It reflects the importance of supporting missionary work and maintaining unity in the early Christian communities.
Historical and Archaeological Findings Related to the Book of 3 John:
- Ancient Christian Communities: Excavations in early Christian communities offer context for understanding the hospitality and leadership issues addressed in 3 John.
- Roman Social Practices: Archaeological findings on Roman hospitality practices help provide context for the importance of supporting traveling missionaries as seen in 3 John.
- The Role of Church Leadership in Early Christianity: Archaeological evidence of early Christian leaders sheds light on the challenges of church authority and leadership disputes mentioned in 3 John.
