2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
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THE GENEROSITY OF GAIUS
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27
3 John 2-8
2 Corinthians 9:6-8
“Every man according as he purposeth
in his heart, so let him give …”
THE GENEROSITY OF GAIUS
John had an earnest desire for the welfare of his host, who had shown great love for the Apostle. The Apostle was happy and was encouraged by the generosity of this disciple. In a few words, he commended him and showed brotherly love. He indicated that Gaius, a believer, had held fast to the truth of Scripture. He walked in that truth and had a testimony from others: “the brethren … testified of the truth that is in thee…”
The generosity of Gaius began with him as a person. He was a believer who stood firm for the faith. When John said that he had no greater joy than to hear that his children walked in the truth, he was implying that Gaius was one of his children. A preacher has a right to call the believers under his ministry his children. Paul told the Corinthians that he had begotten them through the gospel (1 Cor 4:15). John was right to indicate that relationship with Gaius. He was faithful in serving other brethren and strangers. John encouraged him in doing a good work saying this of the report he had heard of him: “Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well.” This was an unusual encouragement to John because his ministry was hindered severally by false disciples who did not walk in the truth.
Gaius had laboured for the sake of Christ’s name. His testimony stood out and John wanted to use it to advance the missionary outreach to the Gentiles. He wrote this letter to spur his efforts that the ministry would be more fruitful. He was like giving him wings to fly to hasten the ministry of the gospel. Gaius had a generous heart and was ready to serve with the Apostle. What can you do for the Lord today?
THOUGHT: Generosity is also a fruit of the Spirit.
PRAYER: Lord, may I be ready to give to others what Thou hast given me.