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Text -- 3 John 1:5-8 (NET)

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Context
The Charge to Gaius
1:5 Dear friend, you demonstrate faithfulness by whatever you do for the brothers (even though they are strangers). 1:6 They have testified to your love before the church. You will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God. 1:7 For they have gone forth on behalf of “The Name,” accepting nothing from the pagans. 1:8 Therefore we ought to support such people, so that we become coworkers in cooperation with the truth.
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Names, People and Places, Dictionary Themes and Topics

Names, People and Places:
 · Gentile a non-Jewish person


Dictionary Themes and Topics: Zeal | Self-denial | NAME | Minister | JOHN, THE SECOND AND THIRD EPISTLES OF | JOHN, THE EPISTLES OF, PART 4-9 | INN | Hospitality | GAIUS | FORWARD; FORWARDNESS | Elder | Conduct, Christian | CHURCH GOVERNMENT | CHARITY | Beloved | BRING | Agape | more
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Robertson , Vincent , Wesley , JFB , Clarke , Defender , TSK

Word/Phrase Notes
Barnes , Poole , Haydock , Gill

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NET Notes , Geneva Bible

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TSK Synopsis , Maclaren , MHCC , Matthew Henry , Barclay , Constable , College

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Commentary -- Word/Phrase Notes (per phrase)

Robertson: 3Jo 1:5 - -- A faithful work ( piston ). Either thus or "thou makest sure,"after an example in Xenophon quoted by Wettstein (poiein pista ) and parallel to kaina...

A faithful work ( piston ).

Either thus or "thou makest sure,"after an example in Xenophon quoted by Wettstein (poiein pista ) and parallel to kaina poieō in Rev 21:5. But it is not certain.

Robertson: 3Jo 1:5 - -- In whatsoever thou doest ( ho ean ergasēi ). Indefinite relative with modal ean (= an ) and the first aorist middle subjunctive of ergazomai . S...

In whatsoever thou doest ( ho ean ergasēi ).

Indefinite relative with modal ean (= an ) and the first aorist middle subjunctive of ergazomai . See Col 3:23 for both poieō and ergazomai in the same sentence.

Robertson: 3Jo 1:5 - -- And strangers withal ( kai touto xenous ). "And that too"(accusative of general reference as in 1Co 6:6; Phi 1:28; Eph 2:8). This praise of hospitali...

And strangers withal ( kai touto xenous ).

"And that too"(accusative of general reference as in 1Co 6:6; Phi 1:28; Eph 2:8). This praise of hospitality (Rom 12:13; 1Pe 4:9; 1Ti 3:2; 1Ti 5:10; Tit 1:8; Heb 13:2) shows that in 2Jo 1:10 John has a peculiar case in mind.

Robertson: 3Jo 1:6 - -- Before the church ( enōpion ekklēsias ). Public meeting as the anarthrous use of ekklēsia indicates, like en ekklēsiāi in 1Co 14:19, 1C...

Before the church ( enōpion ekklēsias ).

Public meeting as the anarthrous use of ekklēsia indicates, like en ekklēsiāi in 1Co 14:19, 1Co 14:35.

Robertson: 3Jo 1:6 - -- Thou wilt do well ( kalōs poiēseis ). Future active of poieō with adverb kalōs , a common polite phrase in letters (papyri) like our "pleas...

Thou wilt do well ( kalōs poiēseis ).

Future active of poieō with adverb kalōs , a common polite phrase in letters (papyri) like our "please."See also Act 10:33; Jam 2:19; 1Co 7:37.; Phi 4:14; 2Pe 1:19.

Robertson: 3Jo 1:6 - -- To set forward on their journey ( propempsas ). First aorist active participle (simultaneous action) of propempō , to send forward, "sending forwar...

To set forward on their journey ( propempsas ).

First aorist active participle (simultaneous action) of propempō , to send forward, "sending forward,"old word, in N.T. in Act 15:3; Act 20:38; Act 21:5; 1Co 16:6, 1Co 16:11; 2Co 1:16; Rom 15:24; Tit 3:13.

Robertson: 3Jo 1:6 - -- Worthily of God ( axiōs tou theou ). Precisely this phrase in 1Th 2:12 and the genitive with axiōs also in Rom 16:2; Phi 1:27; Col 1:10; Eph 4:...

Worthily of God ( axiōs tou theou ).

Precisely this phrase in 1Th 2:12 and the genitive with axiōs also in Rom 16:2; Phi 1:27; Col 1:10; Eph 4:1. See Joh 13:20 for Christ’ s words on the subject. "Since they are God’ s representatives, treat them as you would God"(Holtzmann). From Homer’ s time ( Od. XV. 74) it was customary to speed the parting guest, sometimes accompanying him, sometimes providing money and food. Rabbis were so escorted and Paul alludes to the same gracious custom in Rom 15:24; Tit 3:13.

Robertson: 3Jo 1:7 - -- For the sake of the Name ( huper tou onomatos ). The name of Jesus. See Act 5:4; Rom 1:5 for huper tou onomatos and Jam 2:7 for the absolute use of...

For the sake of the Name ( huper tou onomatos ).

The name of Jesus. See Act 5:4; Rom 1:5 for huper tou onomatos and Jam 2:7 for the absolute use of "the name"as in 1Pe 4:16. "This name is in essence the sum of the Christian creed"(Westcott) as in 1Co 12:3; Rom 10:9. It is like the absolute use of "the Way"(Act 9:2; Act 19:9, Act 19:23; Act 24:22).

Robertson: 3Jo 1:7 - -- Taking nothing ( mēden lambanontes ). Present active participle with the usual negative with participles (1Jo 2:4).

Taking nothing ( mēden lambanontes ).

Present active participle with the usual negative with participles (1Jo 2:4).

Robertson: 3Jo 1:7 - -- Of the Gentiles ( apo tōn ethnikōn ). Instead of the usual ethnōn (Luk 2:32), late adjective for what is peculiar to a people (ethnos ) and ...

Of the Gentiles ( apo tōn ethnikōn ).

Instead of the usual ethnōn (Luk 2:32), late adjective for what is peculiar to a people (ethnos ) and then for the people themselves (Polybius, Diodorus, not in lxx), in N.T. only here, Mat 5:47; Mat 6:7; Mat 18:17. Like our heathen, pagan. John is anxious that Christian missionaries receive nothing from the heathen, as our missionaries have to watch against the charge of being after money. There were many travelling lecturers out for money. Paul in 1 Cor 9 defends the right of preachers to pay, but refuses himself to accept it from Corinth because it would be misunderstood (cf. 1Th 2:6.; 2Co 12:16.). Note apo here as in collecting taxes (Mat 17:25) rather than para , which may be suggestive.

Robertson: 3Jo 1:8 - -- Ought ( opheilomen ). See for this word 1Jo 2:6; 1Jo 3:16; 1Jo 4:11.

Ought ( opheilomen ).

See for this word 1Jo 2:6; 1Jo 3:16; 1Jo 4:11.

Robertson: 3Jo 1:8 - -- To welcome ( hupolambanein ). Present active infinitive (habit of welcoming) of hupolambanō , old word, to take up under, to carry off (Act 1:9), t...

To welcome ( hupolambanein ).

Present active infinitive (habit of welcoming) of hupolambanō , old word, to take up under, to carry off (Act 1:9), to reply (Luk 10:30), to suppose (Act 2:15), only here in N.T. in this sense of receiving hospitably or to take under one’ s protection like hupodechomai (Luk 10:38).

Robertson: 3Jo 1:8 - -- Such ( tous toioutous ). "The such"according to the Greek idiom (1Co 16:16, 1Co 16:18).

Such ( tous toioutous ).

"The such"according to the Greek idiom (1Co 16:16, 1Co 16:18).

Robertson: 3Jo 1:8 - -- That we may be ( hina ginōmetha ). Purpose clause with hina and the present middle subjunctive of ginomai , "that we may keep on becoming."

That we may be ( hina ginōmetha ).

Purpose clause with hina and the present middle subjunctive of ginomai , "that we may keep on becoming."

Robertson: 3Jo 1:8 - -- Fellow-workers ( sunergoi ). Old compound (sun , ergon ).

Fellow-workers ( sunergoi ).

Old compound (sun , ergon ).

Robertson: 3Jo 1:8 - -- With the truth ( tēi alētheiāi ). So associative instrumental case with sun in sunergoi , but it is not certain that this is the idea, though...

With the truth ( tēi alētheiāi ).

So associative instrumental case with sun in sunergoi , but it is not certain that this is the idea, though sunergeō is so used with ergois in Jam 2:22. Sunergos itself occurs with the genitive of the person as in theou sunergoi (1Co 3:9) or with genitive of the thing tēs charās (1Co 3:9). So then here the meaning may be either "co-workers with such brethren for the truth"(dative of advantage) or "co-workers with the truth"(associative instrumental case).

Vincent: 3Jo 1:5 - -- Thou doest faithfully ( πιστὸν ποιεῖς ) Rev., thou doest a faithful work . A third interpretation is thou givest a ...

Thou doest faithfully ( πιστὸν ποιεῖς )

Rev., thou doest a faithful work . A third interpretation is thou givest a pledge or guaranty , and a fourth, akin to this, thou makest sure . The Rev. is best. There is no parallel to justify the third and fourth.

Vincent: 3Jo 1:5 - -- Thou doest ( ἐργάσῃ ) Or lit., according to the eymology, workest (ἔργον work ). See on Jam 2:9. The distinction between ...

Thou doest ( ἐργάσῃ )

Or lit., according to the eymology, workest (ἔργον work ). See on Jam 2:9. The distinction between this verb and others signifying to do , such as ποιεῖν , πράσσειν , δρᾶν , which last does not occur in the New Testament, is not sharply maintained in Attic Greek. In certain connections the difference between them is great, in others, it is hardly perceptible. On ποιεῖν and πρα.σσειν , see on Joh 3:21. Ἐργάζομαι , like πράσσειν , contemplates the process rather than the end of action, carrying the ideas of continuity and repetition . It means to labor , to be active , to perform , with the idea of continued exertion, and therefore is used of servants, or of those who have an assigned business or office. See Mat 21:28; Mat 25:26; Luk 13:14; Joh 5:17; Joh 6:27; Joh 9:4; 1Th 2:9. For the phrase ἐργάσῃ εἰς thou doest toward (Rev.), see Mat 26:10.

Vincent: 3Jo 1:5 - -- And to strangers ( καὶ εἰς τοὺς ξένους ) The best texts read, instead of εἰς τοὺς to the (strangers), το...

And to strangers ( καὶ εἰς τοὺς ξένους )

The best texts read, instead of εἰς τοὺς to the (strangers), τοῦτο , that ; so that the sentence is, literally, " to them that are brethren, and that strangers." For the phrase and that , compare 1Co 6:6; Phi 1:28; Eph 2:8.

Vincent: 3Jo 1:6 - -- The Church ( ἐκκλησίας ) See on Mat 16:18.

The Church ( ἐκκλησίας )

See on Mat 16:18.

Vincent: 3Jo 1:6 - -- If thou bring forward on their journey ( προπέμψας ) Lit., having sent forward . The aorist tense represents the act as accomplis...

If thou bring forward on their journey ( προπέμψας )

Lit., having sent forward . The aorist tense represents the act as accomplished. Compare Act 15:3; Tit 3:13. Rev., set forward .

Vincent: 3Jo 1:6 - -- After a godly sort ( ἀξίως τοῦ Θεοῦ ) Lit., worthily of God . So Rev. Compare 1Th 2:12; Col 1:10.

After a godly sort ( ἀξίως τοῦ Θεοῦ )

Lit., worthily of God . So Rev. Compare 1Th 2:12; Col 1:10.

Vincent: 3Jo 1:6 - -- Thou shalt do well ( καλῶς ποιὴσεις ) For the phrase, see Act 10:33; Phi 4:14; Jam 2:8, Jam 2:19; 2Pe 1:19. Rev., renders the wh...

Thou shalt do well ( καλῶς ποιὴσεις )

For the phrase, see Act 10:33; Phi 4:14; Jam 2:8, Jam 2:19; 2Pe 1:19. Rev., renders the whole: whom thou wilt do well to set forward on their journey worthily of God .

Vincent: 3Jo 1:7 - -- For His Name's sake ( ὑπὲρ τοῦ ὀνόματος ) His is supplied by the A.V. It is not in the text. Rev., correctly, for t...

For His Name's sake ( ὑπὲρ τοῦ ὀνόματος )

His is supplied by the A.V. It is not in the text. Rev., correctly, for the sake of the Name . The Name (Jesus Christ) is used thus absolutely in Act 5:41; compare Jam 2:7. For a similar absolute use of the way , see on Act 4:2. See on 1Jo 1:7.

Vincent: 3Jo 1:7 - -- Taking nothing of ( μηδὲν λαμβάνοντες ἀπὸ ) For the phrase taking of , or from , see on 1Jo 1:5.

Taking nothing of ( μηδὲν λαμβάνοντες ἀπὸ )

For the phrase taking of , or from , see on 1Jo 1:5.

Vincent: 3Jo 1:7 - -- The Gentiles ( ἐθνικῶν ) This word occurs elsewhere only in the Gospel of Matthew. The more common word is ἔθνη , which is the...

The Gentiles ( ἐθνικῶν )

This word occurs elsewhere only in the Gospel of Matthew. The more common word is ἔθνη , which is the reading of the Tex. Rec. here: ἐθνῶν . See on Luk 2:32.

Vincent: 3Jo 1:8 - -- Ought ( ὀφείλομεν ) See on 1Jo 2:6.

Ought ( ὀφείλομεν )

See on 1Jo 2:6.

Vincent: 3Jo 1:8 - -- To receive ( ἀπολαμβάνειν ) The best texts read ὑπολαμβάνειν to support ; i.e., to welcome with the provisio...

To receive ( ἀπολαμβάνειν )

The best texts read ὑπολαμβάνειν to support ; i.e., to welcome with the provision of hospitality. Rev., welcome . The verb means, originally, to take underneath in order to raise . Hence, to support . Figuratively, to take upon the mind , to suppose , as Luk 7:43; Act 2:15 : to take up or follow in speech ; hence to answer , as Luk 10:30.

Vincent: 3Jo 1:8 - -- Fellow-helpers to the truth ( συνεργοὶ τῇ ἀληθείᾳ ) Lit., fellow-workers . The expression is explained in two ways:...

Fellow-helpers to the truth ( συνεργοὶ τῇ ἀληθείᾳ )

Lit., fellow-workers . The expression is explained in two ways: either fellow-workers with the teachers (τοιούτους such ) in support of the truth; or fellow-workers with the truth . Adopt the latter, as Rev.

Wesley: 3Jo 1:5 - -- Uprightly and sincerely.

Uprightly and sincerely.

Wesley: 3Jo 1:6 - -- The congregation with whom I now reside.

The congregation with whom I now reside.

Wesley: 3Jo 1:6 - -- Supplied with what is needful.

Supplied with what is needful.

Wesley: 3Jo 1:6 - -- How tenderly does the apostle enjoin this!

How tenderly does the apostle enjoin this!

Wesley: 3Jo 1:7 - -- To preach the gospel.

To preach the gospel.

Wesley: 3Jo 1:8 - -- With all kindness.

With all kindness.

Wesley: 3Jo 1:8 - -- Which they preach.

Which they preach.

JFB: 3Jo 1:5 - -- An act becoming a faithful man.

An act becoming a faithful man.

JFB: 3Jo 1:5 - -- A distinct Greek word from the former "doest": translate, "workest": whatsoever work, or labor of love, thou dost perform. So Mat 26:10, "She hath wro...

A distinct Greek word from the former "doest": translate, "workest": whatsoever work, or labor of love, thou dost perform. So Mat 26:10, "She hath wrought a good work upon me."

JFB: 3Jo 1:5 - -- The oldest manuscripts, "and that (that is, and those brethren) strangers." The fact of the brethren whom thou didst entertain being "strangers," enha...

The oldest manuscripts, "and that (that is, and those brethren) strangers." The fact of the brethren whom thou didst entertain being "strangers," enhances the love manifested in the act.

JFB: 3Jo 1:6 - -- To stimulate others by the good example. The brethren so entertained by Gaius were missionary evangelists (3Jo 1:7); and, probably, in the course of n...

To stimulate others by the good example. The brethren so entertained by Gaius were missionary evangelists (3Jo 1:7); and, probably, in the course of narrating their missionary labors for the edification of the Church where John then was, incidentally mentioned the loving hospitality shown them by Gaius.

JFB: 3Jo 1:6 - -- "If thou (continue to) forward on their journey" by giving them provisions for the way.

"If thou (continue to) forward on their journey" by giving them provisions for the way.

JFB: 3Jo 1:6 - -- Greek, "in a manner worthy of God," whose ambassadors they are, and whose servant thou art. He who honors God's missionary servants (3Jo 1:7), honors ...

Greek, "in a manner worthy of God," whose ambassadors they are, and whose servant thou art. He who honors God's missionary servants (3Jo 1:7), honors God.

JFB: 3Jo 1:7 - -- Christ's.

Christ's.

JFB: 3Jo 1:7 - -- As missionaries.

As missionaries.

JFB: 3Jo 1:7 - -- Refusing to receive aught by way of pay, or maintenance, though justly entitled to it, as Paul at Corinth and at Thessalonica.

Refusing to receive aught by way of pay, or maintenance, though justly entitled to it, as Paul at Corinth and at Thessalonica.

JFB: 3Jo 1:7 - -- The Christians just gathered out by their labors from among the heathen. As Gaius himself was a Gentile convert, "the Gentiles" here must mean the con...

The Christians just gathered out by their labors from among the heathen. As Gaius himself was a Gentile convert, "the Gentiles" here must mean the converts just made from the heathen, the Gentiles to whom they had gone forth. It would have been inexpedient to have taken aught (the Greek "meden" implies, not that they got nothing, though they had desired it, but that it was of their own choice they took nothing) from the infant churches among the heathen: the case was different in receiving hospitality from Gaius.

JFB: 3Jo 1:8 - -- In contradistinction to "the Gentiles" or "heathen" referred to, 3Jo 1:7.

In contradistinction to "the Gentiles" or "heathen" referred to, 3Jo 1:7.

JFB: 3Jo 1:8 - -- As they take nothing from the Gentiles or heathen.

As they take nothing from the Gentiles or heathen.

JFB: 3Jo 1:8 - -- The oldest manuscripts read, "take up." As they "take" nothing from the Gentiles, we ought to take them up so as to support them.

The oldest manuscripts read, "take up." As they "take" nothing from the Gentiles, we ought to take them up so as to support them.

JFB: 3Jo 1:8 - -- With them.

With them.

JFB: 3Jo 1:8 - -- That is, to promote the truth.

That is, to promote the truth.

Clarke: 3Jo 1:5 - -- Thou doest faithfully - Πιστον ποιεις . Kypke thinks that πιστον is put here for πιστιν, and that the phrase signifies t...

Thou doest faithfully - Πιστον ποιεις . Kypke thinks that πιστον is put here for πιστιν, and that the phrase signifies to keep or preserve the faith, or to be bound by the faith, or to keep one’ s engagements. Thou hast acted as the faith - the Christian religion, required thee to act, in all that thou hast done, both to the brethren at home, and to the strangers - the itinerant evangelists, who, in the course of their travels, have called at thy house. There is not a word here about the pilgrims and penitential journeys which the papists contrive to bring out of this text.

Clarke: 3Jo 1:6 - -- Which have borne witness of thy charity - Of thy love and benevolence

Which have borne witness of thy charity - Of thy love and benevolence

Clarke: 3Jo 1:6 - -- Before the Church - The believers at Ephesus; for to this Church the apostle seems to refer

Before the Church - The believers at Ephesus; for to this Church the apostle seems to refer

Clarke: 3Jo 1:6 - -- Whom if thou bring forward - If thou continue to assist such, as thou hast done, thou shalt do well The brethren of whom St. John speaks might have ...

Whom if thou bring forward - If thou continue to assist such, as thou hast done, thou shalt do well

The brethren of whom St. John speaks might have been apostles; the strangers, assistants to these apostles, as John Mark was to Barnabas. Both were itinerant evangelists

Clarke: 3Jo 1:6 - -- After a godly sort - Αξιως του Θεου· Worthy of God; and in such a way as he can approve. Let all Churches, all congregations of Chris...

After a godly sort - Αξιως του Θεου· Worthy of God; and in such a way as he can approve. Let all Churches, all congregations of Christians, from whom their ministers and preachers can claim nothing by law, and for whom the state makes no provision, lay this to heart; let them ask themselves, Do we deal with these in a manner worthy of God, and worthy of the profession we make? Do we suffer them to lack the bread that perisheth, while they minister to us with no sparing hand the bread of life? Let a certain class of religious people, who will find themselves out when they read this note, consider whether, when their preachers have ministered to them their certain or stated time, and are called to go and serve other Churches, they send them forth in a manner worthy of God, making a reasonable provision for the journey which they are obliged to take. In the itinerant ministry of the apostles it appears that each Church bore the expenses of the apostle to the next Church or district to which he was going to preach the word of life. So it should be still in the mission and itinerant ministry.

Clarke: 3Jo 1:7 - -- For his name’ s sake they went forth - For the sake of preaching the Gospel of the grace of God, and making known Jesus to the heathen

For his name’ s sake they went forth - For the sake of preaching the Gospel of the grace of God, and making known Jesus to the heathen

Clarke: 3Jo 1:7 - -- Taking nothing of the Gentiles - Receiving no emolument for their labor, but in every respect showing themselves to be truly disinterested. Sometime...

Taking nothing of the Gentiles - Receiving no emolument for their labor, but in every respect showing themselves to be truly disinterested. Sometimes, and on some special occasions, this may be necessary; but the laborer is worthy of his hire is the maxim of the author of Christianity. And those congregations of Christians are ever found to prize the Gospel most, and profit most by it, who bear all expenses incident to it, and vice versa

But some construe εξηλθον, they went out, with απο των εθνων, from the Gentiles, or rather by the Gentiles, and give the passage this sense: They went out, i.e., were driven out by the Gentiles, taking nothing with them, i.e., leaving all their property behind, so that they were in a state of great destitution. A curious reading here, εθνικων, heathenish men, for εθνων, Gentiles, which latter might imply those who were converted from among the Gentiles, while the sense of the other term seems to be restrained to those who were still unconverted, may seem to strengthen the above interpretation; and although the construction seems rather harsh, yet it is not, on the whole, unlikely. The reading above referred to is that of the most ancient and reputable MSS. That to be driven out or expelled is one scriptural meaning of the verb εξερχομαι, see Mat 8:32 : And when they were come out, οἱ δε εξελθοντεσς, and when they were Driven Out. Mat 12:43 : When the unclean spirit is gone out, εξελθη, is Driven Out. See Mar 5:13, Mar 7:29 : The devil is gone out of thy daughter, εξεληλυθε, is Expelled. Mar 9:29 : This kind can come forth by nothing εν ουδενι δυναται εξελθειν, can be Driven Out by nothing, but by prayer and fasting. Luk 8:2 : Mary Magdalene; out of whom went, αφ ἡς δαιμονια ἑπτα εξεληλυθει, out of whom were Cast, seven demons. See also 1Jo 2:19; Rev 3:12; and Schleusner, in voc. εξερχομαι .

Clarke: 3Jo 1:8 - -- We therefore ought to receive such - Those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, and have professed the truth at the hazard of their liv...

We therefore ought to receive such - Those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, and have professed the truth at the hazard of their lives, and the loss of all their worldly substance. Instead of απολαμβανειν, to receive, the most ancient and reputable MSS. have ὑπολαμβανειν, to take up, undertake for, or kindly receive

Clarke: 3Jo 1:8 - -- Fellow helpers to the truth - And thus encourage the persecuted, and contribute to the spread and maintenance of the Gospel.

Fellow helpers to the truth - And thus encourage the persecuted, and contribute to the spread and maintenance of the Gospel.

Defender: 3Jo 1:7 - -- The traveling evangelists and Bible teachers recommended by John to the various churches were, evidently, called of God to such a ministry, depending ...

The traveling evangelists and Bible teachers recommended by John to the various churches were, evidently, called of God to such a ministry, depending on God and God's people to supply their physical needs. They set a good example for modern preachers, too many of whom plead for money from saved and unsaved alike, thereby giving the cause of Christ a bad name. To maintain the integrity of His Name, Christian leaders today likewise should trust God and His people alone to supply their needs."

Defender: 3Jo 1:8 - -- John says that other Christians in the churches should "receive" these dedicated servants of the Lord. The word "receive," as used here, conveys the t...

John says that other Christians in the churches should "receive" these dedicated servants of the Lord. The word "receive," as used here, conveys the thought of "underwriting," or supporting them physically and financially."

TSK: 3Jo 1:5 - -- Mat 24:45; Luk 12:42, Luk 16:10-12; 2Co 4:1-3; Col 3:17; 1Pe 4:10,1Pe 4:11

TSK: 3Jo 1:6 - -- have borne witness of thy charity : 3Jo 1:12; Phm 1:5-7 whom : Act 15:3, Act 21:5; Rom 15:24; 2Co 1:16; Tit 3:13 after a godly sort : or, worthy of Go...

have borne witness of thy charity : 3Jo 1:12; Phm 1:5-7

whom : Act 15:3, Act 21:5; Rom 15:24; 2Co 1:16; Tit 3:13

after a godly sort : or, worthy of God, This is a literal and proper rendering of the original αξιως [Strong’ s G516], του [Strong’ s G5120], Θεου [Strong’ s G2316], by which the antecedent to the possessive pronoun his, in the next verse, becomes immediately apparent. ""In a manner worthy of God, and of your relations and obligations to Him, and such as He can approve.""1Th 2:12

do well : Gen 4:7; Jon 4:4; Mat 25:21-23; Act 15:29; Phi 4:14; 1Pe 2:20

TSK: 3Jo 1:7 - -- that : Act 8:4, Act 9:16; 2Co 4:5; Col 1:24; Rev 2:3 taking : 2Ki 5:15, 2Ki 5:16, 2Ki 5:20-27; 1Co 9:12-15, 1Co 9:18; 2Co 11:7-9, 2Co 12:13

TSK: 3Jo 1:8 - -- to receive : 3Jo 1:10; Mat 10:14, Mat 10:40; Luk 11:7; 2Co 7:2, 2Co 7:3 fellowhelpers : 1Co 3:5-9, 1Co 16:10,1Co 16:11; 2Co 6:1, 2Co 8:23; Phi 4:3; Co...

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Commentary -- Word/Phrase Notes (per Verse)

Barnes: 3Jo 1:5 - -- Beloved, thou doest faithfully - In the previous verses the writer had commended Gaius for his attachment to truth, and his general correctness...

Beloved, thou doest faithfully - In the previous verses the writer had commended Gaius for his attachment to truth, and his general correctness in his Christian life. He now speaks more particularly of his acts of generous hospitality, and says that he had fully, in that respect, done his duty as a Christian.

Whatsoever thou doest - In all your contact with them, and in all your conduct toward them. The particular thing which led to this remark was his hospitality; but the testimony respecting his general conduct had been such as to justify this commendation.

To the brethren - Probably to Christians who were well known to him - perhaps referring to Christians in his own church.

And to strangers - Such as had gone to the church of which he was a member with a letter of commendation from John. Compare the Rom 12:13 note, and Heb 13:2 note.

Barnes: 3Jo 1:6 - -- Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church - It would seem that they had returned to John, and borne honorable testimony to the ...

Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church - It would seem that they had returned to John, and borne honorable testimony to the love manifested to them by Gaius. Before what church they had borne this testimony is unknown. Perhaps it was the church in Ephesus.

Whom if thou bring forward on their journey - οὕς προπέμψας hous propempsas . "Whom bringing forward, or having brought forward."The word refers to aid rendered to them in their journey, in facilitating their travels, either by personally accompanying them, by furnishing them the means of prosecuting their journey, or by hospitably entertaining them. Gaius probably aided them in every way in which it was practicable. It has been made a question whether this refer, to the fact that he had thus aided them in some visit which they had made to the church where Gaius was, or to a visit which they purposed to make. The Greek would seem to favor the latter construction, and yet it would appear from the Epistle, that the "brethren and strangers"actually had been with him that they had been rejected by the church through the influence of Diotrephes, and had been thrown upon the hospitality of Gaius, and that they had returned, and had borne honorable testimony to his hospitality. These views can be reconciled by supposing, as Lucke does, that having been once on their travels, and having shared the hospitality of Gaius, they were purposing to visit that region again, and that John, praising him for his former hospitality, commends them again to him, stating the reason 3Jo 1:9-10 why he did not, in accordance with the usual custom, recommend them to the care of the church. They had now gone out 3Jo 1:7 on the same errand upon which they had formerly gone, and they had now equal claims to the hospitality of the friends of religion.

After a godly sort - Margin, as in Greek, "worthy of God."The meaning is, As becomes those who serve God; or as becomes those who are professors of his religion.

Thou shalt do well - You will do what religion requires in these circumstances.

Barnes: 3Jo 1:7 - -- Because that for his name’ s sake - The word "his"here refers to God; and the idea is, that they had undertaken this journey not on their ...

Because that for his name’ s sake - The word "his"here refers to God; and the idea is, that they had undertaken this journey not on their own account, but in the cause of religion.

They went forth - Or, "they have gone forth"- ἐξῆλθον exēlthon - referring to the journey which they had then undertaken; not to the former one.

Taking nothing of the Gentiles - The term "Gentile"embraced all who were not "Jews,"and it is evident that these persons went forth particularly to labor among the pagan. When they went, they resolved, it seems, to receive no part of their support from them, but to depend upon the aid of their Christian brethren, and, hence, they were at first commended to the church of which Gaius and Diotrephes were members, and on this second excursion were commended particularly to Gaius. Why they, resolved to take nothing of the Gentiles is not stated, but it was doubtless from prudential considerations, lest it should hinder their success among them, and expose them to the charge of being actuated by a mercenary spirit. There were circumstances in the early propagation of Christianity which made it proper, in order to avoid this reproach, to preach the gospel "without charge,"those to whom it is preached to contribute to its maintenance, and that it is the right of those who preach to expect and receive a support. On this subject, see the 1 Cor. 9 notes, particularly 1Jo 1:15, 1Jo 1:18 notes.

Barnes: 3Jo 1:8 - -- We therefore ought to receive such - All of us ought hospitably to entertain and help such persons. The work in which they are engaged is one o...

We therefore ought to receive such - All of us ought hospitably to entertain and help such persons. The work in which they are engaged is one of pure benevolence. They have no selfish aims and ends in it. They do not even look for the supplies of their own needs among the people to whom they go to minister; and we ought, therefore, to help them in their work, and to contribute to their support. Doubtless, the apostle meant to urge this duty particularly upon Gaius; but, in order to show that he recognized the obligation himself, he uses the term "we,"and speaks of it as a duty binding on all Christians.

That we might be fellow-helpers to the truth - All Christians cannot go forth to preach the gospel, but all may contribute something to the support of those who do; and in this case they would have a joint participation in the work of spreading the truth. The same reasoning which was applicable to that case, is also applicable now in regard to the duty of supporting those who go forth to preach the gospel to the destitute.

Poole: 3Jo 1:5 - -- Charity to Christians is reckoned fidelity to Christ, being shown to them upon the Christian account, which is intimated to have been done by this p...

Charity to Christians is reckoned fidelity to Christ, being shown to them upon the Christian account, which is intimated to have been done by this pious person, who so kindly treated

the brethren, and strangers i.e. even though they were strangers.

Poole: 3Jo 1:6 - -- After a godly sort i.e. after a manner (as the Greek expression is) worthy of God, viz. as becomes them who bear the name of God, as thou dost, or ar...

After a godly sort i.e. after a manner (as the Greek expression is) worthy of God, viz. as becomes them who bear the name of God, as thou dost, or are intent upon his work, as they are; which latter notion is confirmed by what follows.

Poole: 3Jo 1:7-8 - -- Ver. 7,8. They went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles it thence appears these were Jews, who went out from their own country to serve the intere...

Ver. 7,8. They went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles it thence appears these were Jews, who went out from their own country to serve the interest of the gospel, which therefore he should serve in helping them.

Haydock: 3Jo 1:7 - -- Taking nothing of the Gentiles. These ministers and preachers of the gospel, whom St. John recommends, took care, as St. Paul did, not to take any t...

Taking nothing of the Gentiles. These ministers and preachers of the gospel, whom St. John recommends, took care, as St. Paul did, not to take any thing of the Gentiles, to whom they preached, lest they should be thought to preach to get money by it. But he puts Gaius in mind, that by assisting such men, he would become a fellow labourer in the gospel, and have a share in their reward. (Witham)

Gill: 3Jo 1:5 - -- Beloved, thou doest faithfully,.... Or a faithful thing, and as became a faithful man, a believer in Christ; in all his beneficence and charity he act...

Beloved, thou doest faithfully,.... Or a faithful thing, and as became a faithful man, a believer in Christ; in all his beneficence and charity he acted the upright part; he did not do it in an hypocritical way, to be seen of men, and gain applause from them, but from a principle of love, and with a view to the glory of God:

whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers; which may design either different persons; and by "brethren" may be meant the poor brethren of the church that. Gaius belonged to, and others that were well known to him; and by "the strangers", not unconverted persons, but such of the saints as came from foreign parts, and travelled about to spread the Gospel, and enlarge the interest of Christ: or else the same persons may be intended, for the words may be read, as they are in the Alexandrian copy, and some others, and in the Vulgate Latin version, "what thou doest to the brethren, and this to strangers"; that is, as the Arabic version renders it, "to strange brethren"; or, as the Syriac version, "to the brethren, and especially them that are strangers"; so that Gaius was a very hospitable man, one that entertained and lodged strangers, and used them very civilly and courteously, with great liberality, and with much integrity and sincerity.

Gill: 3Jo 1:6 - -- Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church,.... At Ephesus, where John was; these brethren and strangers coming thither, and being grea...

Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church,.... At Ephesus, where John was; these brethren and strangers coming thither, and being greatly affected with Gaius's kindness and liberality to them, could not forbear speaking of it to his praise, in the presence of the members of the church, as well as acquainted the Apostle John with it; the Syriac version reads, "before the whole church"; they bore testimony of his liberality in a very public manner And this the apostle mentions to encourage Gaius to go on, and continue in his kindness to the same persons, since they retained such a grateful sense of past favours; and whereas they were now returning back, he desires that he would give them some further assistance:

whom if thou bring forward on their journey; the word here used signifies, to send on before, as in Act 15:3, and is used by the Septuagint in the same sense as here, and in the above places, in Gen 18:16; where it is said, that "Abraham went with them (the angels) to bring them on in the way", לשלחם, "to send them on", or "send them away"; dismiss them, take his leave of them in a friendly and honourable way. The Targums of Onkelos and Jonathan render it, לאלוואיהון, "to accompany them"; and so this Greek word, which seems to answer to the Hebrew phrase, signifies an honourable accompanying, leading forth, and taking leave of friends; and so the apostle encourages Gaius to behave in like manner to the brethren and strangers; meaning, either by accompanying them in person, or by sending his servants along with them, both to direct them the way, and to secure them from danger, and chiefly by furnishing them with everything necessary for them; see Tit 3:13. And this he would have him do,

after a godly sort; or "worthy of God"; in imitation of God, who is merciful, kind, and beneficent; or as it became him whom God had called by his grace to his kingdom and glory; or as it was fit and proper such servants of God, as those brethren were, should be used; and this would be doing well:

thou shalt do well; what is grateful and well pleasing to God, and beautiful and lovely in the eyes of his people.

Gill: 3Jo 1:7 - -- Because that for his name's sake they went forth,.... From Judea; either of their own accord to preach the Gospel, or being drove out by the unbelievi...

Because that for his name's sake they went forth,.... From Judea; either of their own accord to preach the Gospel, or being drove out by the unbelieving Jews, for professing the name of Christ; and be it which it will, there was good reason why they should be regarded, and especially since they did as follows,

taking nothing of the Gentiles; even of those who were converted, though their preaching the Gospel, to whom they ministered, for of others, the unconverted Gentiles, they could not expect to receive; and this they did, as the apostles before them, because they would not be chargeable to them, and lest it should be thought they sought their own worldly interest, and not the good of souls and glory of Christ, and so a stumblingblock be laid in the way of the Gospel, to hinder the progress of it. The Ethiopic version reads this in the singular number, "and I went forth for his name's sake, taking nothing of the Gentiles".

Gill: 3Jo 1:8 - -- We therefore ought to receive such,.... We who are Jews, that have believed in Christ, for such an one Gaius, it seems, as well, as the apostle, were,...

We therefore ought to receive such,.... We who are Jews, that have believed in Christ, for such an one Gaius, it seems, as well, as the apostle, were, ought to receive such preachers of the word into our houses, and entertain them cheerfully, while they continue, and supply them with all necessaries when they depart:

that we might be fellow helpers to the truth; that is, to the Gospel, and the propagation of it in the world: some are helpers to it, in preaching of it, by making use of the ministerial gifts bestowed upon them; and others are fellow helpers with them, to the same good work, by their purses, communicating freely to the support of those, who labour in the word and doctrine; and these latter have the honour to be co-workers, or fellow labourers with the former, as the word here used signifies. The Alexandrian copy reads, "fellow helpers to the church", that so the whole burden of taking care of these ministers might not lie upon them. The Vulgate Latin, Arabic, and Ethiopic versions read, "fellow helpers of the truth".

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Commentary -- Verse Notes / Footnotes

NET Notes: 3Jo 1:5 When the author tells Gaius “you demonstrate faithfulness by whatever you do” he is commending him for his faithful service to the traveli...

NET Notes: 3Jo 1:6 Now the author, after commending Gaius for his faithful service to the traveling missionaries in the past (see 3 John 5), now requests additional assi...

NET Notes: 3Jo 1:7 Since the issue here is support for the traveling missionaries, and there is no indication that the author would want to forbid receiving support from...

NET Notes: 3Jo 1:8 The ἵνα (Jina) clause indicates the result of such support for the traveling missionaries: The Christian who helps to support them in ...

Geneva Bible: 3Jo 1:5 Beloved, thou doest ( b ) faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers; ( b ) As becomes a believer and a Christian.

Geneva Bible: 3Jo 1:6 Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou ( c ) bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well: ...

Geneva Bible: 3Jo 1:8 We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be ( d ) fellowhelpers to the truth. ( d ) That we ourselves may help the preaching of the truth.

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Commentary -- Verse Range Notes

TSK Synopsis: 3 John - --1 He commends Gaius for his piety,5 and hospitality,7 to true preachers;9 complaining of the unkind dealing of ambitious Diotrephes on the contrary si...

Maclaren: 3Jo 1:7 - --For The Sake Of The Name For His name's sake.'--3 John 7. THE Revised Version gives the true force of these words by omitting the His,' and reading m...

Maclaren: 3Jo 1:8 - --Fellow-Workers With The Truth That we might be fellow-helpers to the truth.'--3 John 8. FELLOW-HELPERS to the Truth.' A word or two may be permitted ...

MHCC: 3Jo 1:1-8 - --Those who are beloved of Christ, will love the brethren for his sake. Soul prosperity is the greatest blessing on this side heaven. Grace and health a...

Matthew Henry: 3Jo 1:3-8 - -- In these verses we have, I. The good report that the apostle had received concerning this friend of his: The brethren came and testified of the tru...

Barclay: 3Jo 1:5-8 - --Here we come to John's main object in writing. A group of travelling missionaries is on its way to the church of which Gaius is a member, and John u...

Barclay: 3Jo 1:5-8 - --Further, this passage tells us about the wandering missionaries who gave up home and comfort to carry afield the word of God. In 3Jo 1:7Paul says th...

Constable: 2Jo 1:4--3Jo 1:5 - --A. Practicing the Truth vv. 4-6 John wrote this epistle to urge his readers to continue to be obedient to God by responding positively to the truth of...

Constable: 2Jo 1:7--3Jo 1:10 - --B. Protecting the Truth vv. 7-11 Next John moved on to his second purpose. He wrote to encourage his readers to resist the false teachers who were dis...

Constable: 3 John - --C. Demetrius' Opportunity for Love v. 12 John urged Gaius to show hospitable love to Demetrius to give G...

Constable: 3Jo 1:5--Jud 1:7 - --A. Gaius' Love vv. 5-8 John commended Gaius for his love of the brethren to encourage him to continue practicing this virtue. v. 5 John loved Gaius as...

College: 3 John - -- 3 JOHN 1 The elder, To my dear friend Gaius, whom I love in the truth. 2 Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go we...

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Commentary -- Other

Critics Ask: 3Jo 1:7 3 JOHN 7 —Should money be taken from unbelievers to do God’s work? PROBLEM: John claims here that the brethren took no support for their mini...

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Introduction / Outline

Robertson: 3 John (Book Introduction) THIRD JOHN ABOUT a.d. 85 TO 90 By Way of Introduction Certainly 3 John is addressed to an individual, not to a church, though which Gaius we do ...

JFB: 3 John (Book Introduction) AUTHENTICITY.--That these two Epistles were written by the same author appears from their similarity of tone, style, and sentiments. That John, the be...

TSK: 3 John 1 (Chapter Introduction) Overview 3Jo 1:1, He commends Gaius for his piety, 3Jo 1:5, and hospitality, 3Jo 1:7, to true preachers; 3Jo 1:9, complaining of the unkind dealin...

Poole: 3 John 1 (Chapter Introduction) JOHN CHAPTER 1

MHCC: 3 John (Book Introduction) This epistle is addressed to a converted Gentile. The scope is to commend his stedfastness in the faith, and his hospitality, especially to the minist...

Matthew Henry: 3 John (Book Introduction) An Exposition, with Practical Observations, of The Third Epistle of John Christian communion is exerted and cherished by letter. Christians are to be ...

Matthew Henry: 3 John 1 (Chapter Introduction) In this epistle the apostle congratulates Gaius upon the prosperity of his soul (3Jo 1:1, 3Jo 1:2), upon the fame he had among good Christians (3Jo...

Barclay: 3 John (Book Introduction) INTRODUCTION TO THE SECOND AND THIRD LETTERS OF JOHN The very shortness of these two letters is the best guarantee of their genuineness. They are ...

Barclay: 3 John 1 (Chapter Introduction) The Teacher's Joy (3Jo_1:1-4) Christian Hospitality (3Jo_1:5-8) The Christian Adventurers (3Jo_1:5-8 Continued) Love's Appeal (3Jo_1:9-15)

Constable: 3 John (Book Introduction) Introduction Historical background Third John is probably the most personal letter in ...

Constable: 3 John (Outline) Outline I. Introduction vv. 1-4 II. The importance of love vv. 5-12 A. G...

Constable: 3 John 3 John Bibliography Alexander, W. "The Third Epistle of John." In The Speaker's Commentary: New Testament. Edit...

Haydock: 3 John (Book Introduction) THE THIRD EPISTLE OF ST. JOHN, THE APOSTLE. INTRODUCTION. St. John commends Gaius for his faith, charity, and hospitality towards strangers an...

Gill: 3 John (Book Introduction) INTRODUCTION TO 3 JOHN This epistle was written by the Apostle John, who calls himself an "elder", as in the preceding, and is inscribed to a frien...

College: 3 John (Outline) OUTLINE I. GREETING - 1 II. GAIUS ADMONISHED - 2-8 A. Walking in the Truth - 2-4 B. Faithful in Working Together - 5-8 1. Faithful Act...

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