Dealing With The Problem of Hospitality
February 19, 2022
Commentary
This letter talks about having an attitude of generosityand dealing with the problem of hospitality and specifically to those who are refusing to give it to brothers in Christ. The bond of affection between John and Gaius is based on the truth of God’s Word (v. 1). Gaius was evidently an outstanding spiritual man. John prays that he will prosper both physically and spiritually (v. 2). Through other brothers in Christ, John had heard that Gaius was living a lifestyle that was consistent with God’s Word (vv. 3-4).
John commends Gaius for his generosity (vv. 5-8). Many Bible scholars think the statement, “bring forward on their journey,” (v. 5) constituted an expression in those days that meant he also promised to help Christian workers financially in their work as well as providing hospitality. This is certainly consistent with I Corinthians 9:7-14 that states that those who have given themselves exclusively to the Lord’s work had a right to live by the means of the gospel they proclaim.
Generosity is a lost art among many Christians today. We would do well to look for neighbors who are disabled or elderly and mow their lawn, or do some repair work for them. Because of our individualistic, self-centered society there are many lonely people who wonder if anyone cares.
Application
It is my desire to known as a person who is generous. This involves being a person who encourages and gives opportunity for others to be creative and develop their gifts and abilities for the Lord.
3 John 1:1– 8 (NET)
1 From the elder, to Gaius my dear brother, whom I love in truth. 2 Dear friend, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, just as it is well with your soul. 3 For I rejoiced greatly when the brothers came and testified to your truth, just as you are living according to the truth.
4 I have no greater joy than this: to hear that my children are living according to the truth.
5 Dear friend, you demonstrate faithfulness by whatever you do for the brothers (even though they are strangers). 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. 7 For they have gone forth on behalf of “The Name,” accepting nothing from the pagans. 8 Therefore we ought to support such people, so that we become coworkers in cooperation with the truth.