What does 3 John 1:10 mean?

Explanation

The verse 3 John 1:10 is a personal letter written by the apostle John, and it addresses a concern about Diotrephes, who is accused of spreading malicious rumors about John and others.

John's admonition reveals Diotrephes's behavior, which includes an unwillingness to receive fellow believers, actively preventing others from doing so, and even excommunicating those who are hospitable.

The literal meaning of the verse is clear as it describes specific negative actions by Diotrephes.

The deeper meaning points to the issues in the early Church regarding authority, hospitality, and the proper treatment of believers.

Historical Context

The Epistles of John were written in the late first century A.D. against a backdrop of growing tension in the early Christian communities.

The infant Christian Church was facing both external persecution and internal strife.

During this time, there were disputes regarding leadership, teachings, and the acceptance of authority.

Diotrephes, mentioned in this verse, was likely a leader or influential figure in one of the churches known to John and his recipients.

His behavior suggests a struggle for power or a divergence in the hierarchical organization of the early Church.

Theological Insights

From a theological viewpoint, the actions of Diotrephes could be interpreted as contradicting the teachings of the New Testament, particularly the emphasis on love, hospitality, and unity within the Church.

This event invites reflection on church leadership, the role of authority, and how it should be enacted in a Christian context.

It raises questions about the nature of the Church as a community of believers and the importance of humility and service rather than domination.

Practical Applications

The verse serves as a caution against behaviors driven by self-importance or a desire for control within a community.

It encourages believers to practice hospitality, to be open to receiving others, and to avoid creating divisions.

Followers are prompted to challenge those who act against the principles of the community and to uphold the values of love and acceptance.

Cross-References

• Romans 16:17: "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them."
• 2 Thessalonians 3:6: "Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us."
• 1 Timothy 5:20: "Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear."
• Titus 3:10: "A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;"
• 2 John 1:10: "If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:"

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key words in the verse provide insight into the gravity of the actions taken by Diotrephes:

• "Prating" (Greek: φλυαρῶν, "phyarōn") meaning to talk foolishly or idly, suggesting empty or malicious gossip.
• "Malicious words" (Greek: κακοῖς λόγοις, "kakois logois") imply that Diotrephes’s speech was intended to harm others’ reputations.
• "Forbiddeth" (Greek:κωλύων, "kolyōn") suggests strong inhibition or prevention, implying a deliberate effort made by Diotrephes to stop positive actions.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparison to other ancient practices shows how hospitality and community were central values in many cultures.

In contrast to the behavior of Diotrephes, Greco-Roman societies often revered the practice of hospitality as sacred, not dissimilar to the early Christian emphasis on loving and welcoming strangers.

The Egyptian and Mesopotamian religious traditions also stressed the importance of kind treatment toward others, especially travelers and guests.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse does not lend itself directly to scientific discussion, social science could explore the psychological and group dynamics reflected in Diotrephes's behavior.

The social sciences offer perspectives on power struggles, influence, group behavior, and the role these play in organizational and community settings.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and commentaries interpret this verse as highlighting the issue of church authority and unity.

For instance, Matthew Henry's commentary suggests that Diotrephes desired preeminence and was acting out of pride and authoritarianism, contrary to Christian humility and service.

John Wesley notes the severity of Diotrephes's actions, including casting members out of the church, and the need for John to take action.

Contemporary commentaries echo these sentiments and often use this verse to discuss the importance of integrity and accountability in church leadership.