Practice Hospitality Ungrudgingly
October 2, 2022
Commentary
John mentions how Diotrephes likes to be the number-one leader in the Church and refuses to welcome any of the Lord’s followers who come by (vv. 9-10). The ancient world had a system of “guest-friendships”whereby families undertook to give each other hospitality when the occasion arose. If the heathen world accepted the obligation of hospitality, it was only to be expected that Christians would take it even more seriously. It is Peter’s injunction: “Practice hospitalityungrudgingly to one another” (1 Peter 4:9).
This passage is written about Diotrephes who it is said, “loves to have the preeminence” (v.9) He is not a false teacher but one who is fundamental in the faith. He believes the truth concerning God, Christ and the virgin birth, yet he is doing harm to the cause of Christ. He will not accept the authority of John, and he will not receive the itinerant missionaries. He is determined to see that the local congregation manages its own affairs and excommunicates those who are prepared to accept the authority of John and to receive the wandering preachers. He appears to be a very strong minded elder and an aggressive member of the congregation who by the force of his personality is very persuasive. Certainly he emerges as a strong and dominant character (v.10).
Diotrephes’ behavior was to be avoided and not copied (v.11). It is suggested that if Gaius imitates that which is good he will extend hospitality to Demetrius (v. 12), whom many believe to be one of the missionaries John sent to the church with an excellent testimony. A true Christian leader is a servant, not a person who Lord’s over others. He mentions how he has more to say, but doesn’t want to put it in writing (v. 13). Instead he hopes to see them soon, where they can talk in person (v. 14).
Application
A bishop must be a man given to hospitality (1 Timothy 3:2). Titus is told to be “hospitable” (Titus 1:8). I must always be wide open to have a place for the stranger who may come my way.
3 John 1:9– 15 (NET)
9 I wrote something to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first among them, does not acknowledge us. 10 Therefore, if I come, I will call attention to the deeds he is doing —the bringing of unjustified charges against us with evil words! And not being content with that, he not only refuses to welcome the brothers himself, but hinders the people who want to do so and throws them out of the church! 11 Dear friend, do not imitate what is bad but what is good. The one who does good is of God; the one who does what is bad has not seen God.
12 Demetrius has been testified to by all, even by the truth itself. We also testify to him, and you know that our testimony is true.
13 I have many things to write to you, but I do not wish to write to you with pen and ink. 14 But I hope to see you right away, and we will speak face to face. 15 Peace be with you. The friends here greet you. Greet the friends there by name.