indication of our humility and servanthood. Jn 13:12-17.
vi. Hospitality is a pre-requisite for recognized leadership in
the church. I Ti 3:2, Ti 1:8.
b. The church had recognized Gaius who had showed hospitality to many. Vs 6. This is in fact, a corporate recognition of
Gaius s leadership in the church.
c. John s further affirmation and encouragement to Gaius to
continue the good work of hospitality. Vs 6-8.
i. Send them away in the manner worthy of God. In other words,
honor God s servants as if honoring God. Matt 25:40.
ii. Judge wisely, discerning the authenticity of the servant of
God.
n Do they have the right motive – Serving for the sake of
the Name.
n Do they depend on the Lord s provision or help from the
pagan ?
iii. Understanding our partnership in the ministry of God.
n We all work together for the truth.
n We ought to show hospitality to the servants of God.
III. John exposed the worldly ambition of Diotrephes. Vs 9-10.
1. It appeared that Diotrephes was one of the leaders in the
church.
2. John exposed the evil deeds of Diotrephes.
a. He loves to be first. Pride, and selfish ambition are often
the fatal blow to godly leadership.
b. He refused to have fellowship with John and others.
c. He slandered John maliciously.
d. He has driven some brothers out of the church, because they
refused to listen to him, and continued to welcome other
traveling brothers.
IV. John’s encouraged Gaius to continue to do good. Vs 11-12.
1. Do not imitate what is evil, but what is good.
a. No one is good except God alone. Lk 18:19. God is our
benchmark.
b. Be perfect therefore as your Heavenly Father is perfect.
Matt 5:48.
c. Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children
Ep 5:1, I Th 1:6.
d. Therefore, I urge you to imitate me. I Co 4:16.
e. Imitate those who are faithful. He 6:12, 13:7.
2. Do what is good, because we are from God.
a. Good and evil are not compatible.
b. Our claim of coming from God must be authenticated by the good that we do.
c. Doing evil discredits one s claim that he has seen God.
2. Follow the good example of Demetrius who has been validated by many.
a. He was well spoken of by everyone.
b. His life was consistent with the truth.
c. We testified that he was credible.
V. Final words. Vs 13-14.
1. John’s desire to see Gaius soon. He wanted to talk to him
face to face.
2. Greetings from other believers – Peace to you.