What does 3 John 1:5 mean?

Explanation

3 John 1:5 is part of a personal letter written by the Apostle John to a Christian named Gaius.

In this verse, John commends Gaius for his faithfulness in serving other believers, as well as strangers.

The phrase "thou doest faithfully" indicates that John recognizes Gaius's actions as consistent and trustworthy expressions of his faith.

This commendation is not just for actions toward the community of believers ("the brethren") but also includes his hospitality and service to strangers, highlighting Gaius's inclusivity and kindness.

The deeper meaning here extends beyond mere approval of hospitable actions.

It suggests that caring for others, especially those within the community of faith and those who are unknown to us, is an integral aspect of living out one's faith.

Such behavior reflects the love and teachings of Jesus Christ and is seen as a way to demonstrate the truth of the Gospel through actions.

Historical Context

The third epistle of John is one of the shortest books in the New Testament and is believed to have been written around the end of the first century A.D. This letter is addressed to Gaius, a likely leader or respected figure in an early Christian community.

Historically, the early Christian communities placed high value on hospitality, often providing lodging and support for traveling missionaries and teachers.

This hospitality was crucial as it fostered the spread of the Christian faith and provided a network of support for its adherents in a time when they were often persecuted.

Theological Insights

From the perspective of Christian theology, this verse underscores the importance of good works as a manifestation of faith.

While theological viewpoints on the relationship between faith and works vary, most Christian traditions agree that works, such as caring for others, are a natural outcome of a genuine faith.

Protestant theology, particularly in its evangelical and reformed branches, emphasizes that while salvation is through faith alone and not works, good works are evidence of a living faith.

Similarly, Catholic and Orthodox traditions stress the importance of works as a component of faith that fulfills the commandment to love one another.

Practical Applications

3 John 1:5 can be applied in daily life as a reminder to act kindly and generously not only toward those we know but also toward outsiders and those who are different from us.

This includes practicing hospitality, offering assistance where needed, supporting missionaries or others who work for the good of the community, and being a reliable and faithful friend and member of one's community.

In a contemporary setting, this might translate to volunteering time and resources to help those in need, welcoming newcomers into one's community, church, or home, and providing support to those who are spreading positive messages and doing good works.

Cross-References

• Hebrews 13:2: "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."
• Matthew 25:35: "For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in."
• Romans 12:13: "Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key words to study include:

• "faithfully" (πιστῶς, pistos) - meaning trustworthy, sure, or believing.

It is used here to describe the manner in which Gaius carries out his actions.

• "whatsoever" (ποιεῖς, poieis) - a form of the verb ποιέω (poieo), which means to make or to do.

It encompasses a broad range of actions Gaius may engage in.

• "brethren" (ἀδελφοῖς, adelphois) - refers to fellow believers or members of the Christian community, implying a familial connection within the faith.
• "strangers" (ξένοις, xenois) - refers to those who are not known personally or are from different regions or communities.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader cultural and religious contexts of the ancient world, hospitality was a crucial virtue.

Similar injunctions to care for strangers can be found in other ancient traditions.

For example, the Greek concept of xenia emphasized hospitality to strangers and was believed to invite divine favor.

In Judaism, the Torah contains several references to caring for the stranger or the foreigner, reflecting a value for hospitality and justice within the community.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse does not directly intersect with scientific ideas, one might consider the psychological and sociological benefits of hospitality and altruistic behaviors. Studies in psychology have shown that acts of kindness can increase the well-being of the giver as well as the receiver.

From a sociological perspective, practices of hospitality and generosity can strengthen community bonds and create a more cohesive and supportive social structure.

Commentaries

Biblical commentaries offer various insights into 3 John 1:5:

• Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary emphasizes the importance of aiding those who are doing God's work, particularly strangers who preach the Gospel.

Henry sees this hospitality as a commendable service to God.

• The Pulpit Commentary discusses the idea that Gaius, by offering hospitality, was cooperating in the work of the Christian truth and highlights that John does not indicate that Gaius should provide this hospitality only when convenient.
• John MacArthur notes the significance of supporting traveling teachers in a time when inns were often places of immorality, seen as an extension of partnership in the truth of the Gospel.