What does 3 John 1:6 mean?

Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well: 3 John 1:6

Explanation

3 John 1:6 is a verse found in the personal letter from the apostle John, traditionally held to be John the Elder. The verse commends members of the local church for their loyalty and service, specifically their acts of charity (love in action), which have been attested to by others before the church community. John encourages the recipients of his letter to support these individuals on their journey in a manner that reflects God’s love and goodness. This implies providing for their needs, showing hospitality, and encouraging them as they continue their work in spreading the gospel.

Historical Context

The Book of 3 John is one of the shortest books in the New Testament and is written as a personal letter from John to an individual named Gaius. This letter is believed to have been written in the late first century AD. The context of the verse suggests that traveling Christian teachers, known as itinerant preachers, relied upon the hospitality of local believers for their sustenance and support. The early church often assisted these missionaries on their journeys. As they did not have widespread or institutional support structures, personal recommendations and assistance were critical.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse stresses the importance of supporting the work of the church and the spreading of the Christian message. From a Christian perspective, acts of charity and hospitality are ways to serve God and the extension of His kingdom on Earth. It suggests that aiding fellow believers in their missionary work is not merely a good deed but a holy responsibility. It underscores the idea that Christian fellowship is realized through active support and that faith is expressed through love in action.

Practical Applications

In a modern context, 3 John 1:6 can be applied to everyday life in various ways. It can encourage individuals to assist those working for the betterment of society and spiritual leaders or missionaries who rely on the generosity of others. Activities may include offering financial support, volunteering one’s time, and providing moral encouragement. It also reinforces the idea of hospitality toward guests, especially those who are committed to serving the broader community.

Cross-References

• Hebrews 13:2: “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”
• Galatians 6:10: “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.”
• Romans 12:13: “Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.”
• Acts 20:35: “I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Language Study

Key words in this verse are “charity” and “a godly sort.” The original Greek word translated as “charity” in the King James version is agape (ἀγάπη), denoting selfless, sacrificial, unconditional love. The phrase “a godly sort” refers to doing things in a manner that honors God or is consistent with God’s character and commandments. It implies actions that are holy, selfless, and infused with spiritual significance.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other religious traditions, hospitality and support of individuals who are on spiritual missions are also valued. For example, in Buddhism, dana (generosity) is one of the perfections a bodhisattva develops and is considered an essential practice. Similarly, in Islam, the concept of Zakat is one of the Five Pillars, requiring Muslims to give a fixed portion of their income to the needy.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the act of giving and support demonstrated in the verse could be studied within the field of psychology, under prosocial behavior. Research has shown that being generous or providing support to others can have positive effects on the giver’s psychological well-being and can foster a sense of community and social bonding.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians provide diverse insights into this verse. Some focus on the importance of hospitality in the early church as a vital support for the spread of Christianity. Others highlight the reciprocal nature of Christian love as being central to community life. There is also commentary on the responsibility of well-off believers to use their resources to advance the common good, as reflected in this call for benevolent actions towards fellow workers in the faith.