3 John 9-10

3 John 9-10

I wrote something to the assembly, but the one of them who desires to be first in rank, Diotrephes, does not pay attention in order to obey us.  Because of this, should I come cause them to think about his works again - works that he does while saying evil sayings in ignorance about us – and while not being satisfied upon these things neither does he receive the brothers and even hinders the ones who desire to do so – even casting them out of the assembly!

Thoughts for Today

First Thought:

John tells us about a hindrance to the church named Diotrephes.  The first thing that John tells us is that Diotrephes likes to be first.  This is such a great negative counterpoint to the example we have in the teachings of Christ.  Jesus tells us to be humble.  He tells us to seek a position of service rather than being served.  Following Christ is about coming humbly before God and surrendering to Him.  Diotrephes wants to be first.  He wants to be in control.  He wants the power.

Do you ever want power or control?  What is the danger behind power and control?  Is humbleness something you seek?

Second Thought:

Because Diotrephes has a mindset that seeks power and does not desire humbleness, he also feels empowered to slander John and his fellow followers of Jesus Christ!  It’s amazing how corrupting power can be!  People who are in power – or who seek power – often believe that they are empowered to say anything they want to the detriment of their opponents.  Again I see an example opposite to Christ.  Christ had all the power of God, but He never slandered.  In fact, Christ seldom even asserted a harsh opinion on anyone – and when he did it was against the religious elite.  The model we see in Christ is discussion and discipleship – not slander and threats.

Have you ever been under someone who asserts their power through slander, threats, gossip, or other negative social means?  How does this feel?  Why is it ultimately damaging to the whole of the community?

Third Thought:

John has one final accusation against Diotrephes, and it seems to be a pretty grievous one.  John mentions that he does not display any desire to show hospitality to the brothers – that is, people of faith.  Furthermore, he even hinders people who do desire to show hospitality.  In fact, he actively kicks people out of the church who want to show hospitality to others who believe in God!  Diotrephes appears to have forgotten that it is God’s church and not his own church.  Diotrephes desired to control the church to his own desires rather than allow the people around him to follow God.  Tonight I was reminded about the motto for the Moravian Church, and I think it is a great motto to lift up in light of Diotrephes’ actions in the church.  “In Essentials, Unity.  In Non-essentials, Liberty.  In all things, Love.”

Is it easy to love all in the faith, even those with whom you disagree?  Is it easy to give liberty to those who might be following God in a way different than you desire?  Why might it be easy to fall into a pattern of behavior like Diotrephes puts on display here, especially when people are different than you?

Passage for Tomorrow: 3 John 11-12