Introduction to 3 John

Why Study This Book?

In this brief epistle, the Apostle John praised Gaius, a Church member who was loyal during a

time of rebellion against Church leaders. John’s teachings can help you better understand the

apostasy that occurred in the New Testament Church and can inspire you to remain faithful to

Church leaders despite opposition.1

Who Wrote This Book?

The author identified himself as “the elder” (3 John 1:1) and is traditionally understood to be the

Apostle John.

When and Where Was It Written?

It is unknown exactly when and where 3 John was written. If the tradition of John ’s long

residence in Ephesus is correct, he could have written this epistle from there between A.D. 70

and 100.

To Whom Was It Written and Why?

The Third Epistle of John was written to Gaius, a faithful member of the Church whom John

praised for showing unselfish devotion to the cause of Christ by providing accommodations for

God’s traveling servants (see 3 John 1:5–8).2

John also warned Gaius about someone named Diotrephes, who may have held a local leadership

position in the Church. Diotrephes openly opposed the Apostle John and other Church officials
1
John Bowden, Fortress Introduction to the New Testament, (London: Gerd Theissen Press, 2023), 161-
163.
2
Henry Clarence, Introduction to the New Testament, (London: Gerd Theissen Press, 1943), 313-308
and even prevented local Church members who wanted to receive them from attending Church

meetings (see 3 John 1:9–10). John encouraged Gaius to continue in goodness and said he

expected to visit Gaius soon (see 3 John 1:11–14).

Purpose of Writing:

John’s purpose in writing this third epistle is threefold. First, he writes to commend and

encourage his beloved co-worker, Gaius, in his ministry of hospitality to the itinerant messengers

who were going from place to place to preach the Gospel of Christ. Second, he indirectly warns

and condemns the behavior of one Diotrephes, a dictatorial leader who had taken over one of the

churches in the province of Asia, and whose behavior was directly opposed to all that the apostle

and his Gospel stood for. Third, he commends the example of Demetrius who was reported as

having a good testimony from all.3

historical background of 3 john

While we cannot pinpoint the date with certainty due to the lack of specific information in the

letter, 3 John was probably written around AD 90 from the island of Patmos, where John was

exiled at the time. John wrote his letter to Gaius, a leader of one or more churches in Asia

Minor.4

In 3 John we see John’s concern about apostate influences in the Church. We also see his love for

others and the joy he felt for those who were choosing a life of obedience (see 3 John 1:4).

Background. The Apostle John was born in and grew up in Galilee, and was the son of a

3
Marshall.I Howard, The new international commentary on the New Testament; The epistles of John 1978
pp 9-22
4
John R.W.Stott; The Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (General Editor: Professor R.V.G.Tasker),
M.A.;DD.1960), 31-216
fisherman named Zebedee and his wife, Salome. Some believe that Salome was the sister of the

Virgin Mary, though this is not explicitly stated in the New Testament.

What are some historical facts about the Book of John?

1. The Gospel of John was written by the apostle John, the son of Zebedee, a Palestinian Jew and

a member of Jesus' inner circle of apostles during his earthly ministry. 2. The book was most

likely written in Ephesus (modern-day Turkey), which was one of the most important urban

centers of the Roman Empire at the time.5

What is the context of 3 John?

Third John is a short letter from the apostle John to a fellow Christian, Gaius. John emphasizes

the importance of “truth,” which is mentioned a half-dozen times. The passage highlights the

need for Christians to support each other, so that missionaries and evangelists don't depend on

the sup

5
Barne,s Notes on the New Testament by Albert Barnes.1505-1509