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JOHN’S FAREWELL
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30
3 John 13-14
Acts 20:32-38
 
“… I commend you to God,
and to the word of his grace,
which is able to build you up …”
 
JOHN’S FAREWELL
 
A farewell with kind words reflects Christian love. The Apostle stressed in his letters. 3 John was probably delivered by Demetrius to Gaius. This was occasioned by the report of some brethren who returned to the Apostle and informed him of the hospitality of Gaius. His conduct was commendable and a contrast to the other arrogant man.
 
Though John did not directly mention the name of Christ in the epistle, the sentence “for his name’s sake they went forth” is an indirect reference to Christ. He also assumed that their common faith would inform Gaius of the reason for this letter. He said in verse 11, “Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.” These words indicated the key to their relationship. He also gave the examples of three characters in this epistle.
 
John expressed that he wanted to say more to his friend, but he did not want to put it in ink and paper. He hoped to see him face to face. There is a difference between writing and personal contact. Even with modern communication technology, personal touch cannot have a substitute. Paul was a missionary to many places. He also had the ability to write to the churches about many things that he had taught. However, he valued personal visits more than writing. That was why he travelled extensively. It is indicated here also that John visited many places to encourage Christians and that was the ministry of his calling.
 
In his last words, he said to Gaius, “Peace be to thee. Our friends salute thee. Greet the friends by name.” It was common for Apostles to give such farewell salutation and to mention names of brethren who had been helpful in the ministry, and thus, let the brotherly love continue.
 
THOUGHT: It is a virtue to commend brethren who are worthy.
PRAYER: Lord, help me to appreciate the ministry of others to me.

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