Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. He who does good is of God, but he who does evil has not seen God. Demetrius has a good testimony from all, and from the truth itself. And we also bear witness, and you know that our testimony is true. I had many things to write, but I do not wish to write to you with pen and ink; but I hope to see you shortly, and we shall speak face to face. Peace to you. Our friends greet you. Greet the friends by name. (3 John 1:11-14)
A Vital Command to Imitate What Is Good
John pauses to give Gaius (and us) a vital warning. Do not follow the example of Diotrephes. His behavior is evil, rooted in pride and selfishness. Instead, imitate what is good. John reminds us that our behavior reveals our spiritual identity. Those who consistently do good, walk in love, and support the truth demonstrate that they belong to God. Those who practice evil, drive division, and seek self-elevation show that they do not truly know God.
The Exemplary Testimony of Demetrius
To give Gaius a positive example to counter Diotrephes, John introduces Demetrius. We don’t know much about Demetrius outside this letter. We know he is a man with a good reputation in the church. And John agrees with that reputation by offering his own approval. There are a few other things we can surmise. Demetrius was probably an itinerant evangelist like Timothy or Titus or Silas who visited different churches throughout this region.
He was the type of man Gaius received in the past, treated well, and sent him on his way with God’s blessings. Demetrius may have delivered this letter to Gaius on John’s behalf. And, John may have sent Demetrius to serve as an ally of Gaius, an advocate for truth who could help Gaius stand against Diotrephes. Whatever the case, Demetrius is the kind of Christian man Gaius should receive, embrace, and imitate.
Choosing to Imitate What Is Good in the Church
John closes the letter by expressing his intention to visit soon. A lot is happening in the background of 3 John, and the apostle acknowledges that there was much more to say. But some things are better said in person, face to face. So John hopes to visit soon and have that conversation with Gaius. Until then, he wishes God’s blessings of peace, greets Gaius on behalf of their mutual friends, and reminds Gaius one last time to remember those on…
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