What does 3 John 1:8 mean?

Explanation

3 John 1:8 presents a call to believers to assist and support those who work in the service of the Gospel.

The author, traditionally understood to be John the Apostle, is writing to a Christian named Gaius, encouraging him to offer hospitality and aid to traveling teachers who are spreading the message of Christianity.

The phrase "fellowhelpers to the truth" implies a partnership in the mission of promoting and living according to the truth of the Gospel message.

It recognizes all believers as part of a collective effort to support the work of Christian ministry and to reinforce the propagation of religious teaching and communal support as outlined in the New Testament.

Historical Context

This verse is from the epistle of 3 John, one of the shortest books in the New Testament, written around the late 1st or early 2nd century AD.

The early Christian communities often depended on the hospitality and goodwill of others as they traveled to spread the Christian message.

This epistle is addressing a problem in the early church where some, like Diotrephes mentioned in the preceding verses, were unwilling to receive such workers.

John emphasizes the importance of supporting those who are true to the teachings of Jesus.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, 3 John 1:8 suggests a communal responsibility among Christians to support the dissemination of Christian teachings.

It reflects the early Christian understanding of koinonia, a concept of fellowship and sharing in religious contexts.

It also echoes Jesus' teaching on service and hospitality being integral to the faith, as seen in passages like Matthew 25:35-40.

The verse may be interpreted differently according to various denominations, but most agree on the value of supporting the ministries that spread the Gospel.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse have practical applications in the modern context where Christians can interpret it as an encouragement to support missionaries, pastors, and anyone engaged in spreading the Christian faith.

It suggests that providing assistance can come in various forms, such as financial support, hospitality, prayers, and encouragement.

This verse reinforces the concept that all members of the Christian community have a role to play in the larger mission of the Church.

Cross-References

• Romans 12:13: "Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality."
• Hebrews 13:2: "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."
• Philippians 4:3: "And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life."

Language Study

In the original Greek, the term "fellowhelpers" is derived from "συνεργοί" (synergoi), which is a compound of "σύν" (syn - with) and "ἔργον" (ergon - work). It conveys the idea of working together or cooperation.

The word "truth" in Greek is "ἀλήθεια" (alētheia), referring not only to factual truth but also to the ultimate truth and reality as revealed in Jesus Christ and his teachings.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing 3 John 1:8 with other cultural and religious texts, the role of hospitality and support within a religious community is not unique to Christianity.

For instance, the practice of extending hospitality to travelers and those in need is a common value seen in various cultures and religions, such as in Islam's emphasis on the hospitality during Eid al-Fitr and the Jewish practice of hachnasat orchim, which means bringing in guests, especially on the Sabbath and holidays.

Scientific Perspectives

There is no direct scientific intersection with the specific instructions of 3 John 1:8.

However, the broader principle of community support finds backing in studies of sociology and psychology, where communal support systems are recognized as crucial for individual well-being and societal stability.

Commentaries

Various experts and commentaries offer insights into 3 John 1:8.

Matthew Henry's Commentary emphasizes the apostle John's concern about aiding those who go forth for the name of Christ, highlighting the fellowship all Christians partake in the truth of the Gospel.

The Expositor's Bible Commentary notes the practical outworking of Christian love and unity, as evidenced by the support given to those serving in missions.

John MacArthur's commentary points out the contrast between the commendable behavior of Gaius and the earlier mentioned Diotrephes, who does not support the brethren.

These commentaries agree that the verse is a call for active participation in supporting the mission and workers of the Christian church.