What is the theme of 3 John?

Answer 1

3 John was written by an unknown author who called himself "the Presbyter," probably in the first quarter of the second century. This author is unlikely to have been the apostle John, who could hardly be expected to refer to himself as a presbyter or to appeal to Gaius as a "co-worker" (3 John 8). Nor is it plausible that Diotrephes, who exercises authority in the church, would flout John's authority, knowing him to be an apostle.

The letter was written to Gaius, appealing to him to help ensure a proper welcome for a certain Demetrius whom the Presbyter is sending. Some see Diotrephes as the earliest known example of the emergence of the position of bishop in the Church, but others simply see him as an authoritarian leader, who may even wield authority because he owns the house in which the local Christian community meets.

Answer 2

3 John is written by the Apostle John to a personal friend, Gaius, a faithful Christian, expressing appreciation for Gaius' hospitality shown toward traveling brothers, and encouraging him to continue to do what is right. Though John also mentions a problem with a certain 'Diotrephes', the letter primarily gives us insight into the hospitality shown to fellow Christians who were travelling in the name of Christ, even though they might not be personally known by their hosts.

Answer 3

Another answer from our community:

The short answer is to encourage, condemn, and commend. See related link below: