Aspect Details
Author Traditionally attributed to the Apostle John, who is also believed to have written the Gospel of John, 1 John, 2 John, and the Book of Revelation.
Date Likely written between AD 85-95, during the latter part of John's life.
Recipient The letter is addressed to a man named Gaius, a leader within the early Christian church.
Purpose To commend Gaius for his faithfulness and hospitality, to warn about the behavior of Diotrephes, and to encourage support for traveling missionaries.
Key Themes Hospitality, truth, church leadership, witness, and Christian behavior.
Major Characters
  • John: The Apostle writing the letter.
  • Gaius: The recipient commended for his support of missionaries.
  • Diotrephes: A church leader criticized for his hostile actions and refusal to welcome John’s emissaries.
  • Demetrius: A fellow believer commended by John for his good testimony.
Historical Context Early Christianity was organized around house churches. Apostolic letters played a crucial role in guiding and addressing issues within these communities. During this time, the church faced internal conflicts, such as the behavior exhibited by Diotrephes, and challenges related to spreading the Gospel and supporting itinerant missionaries.
Cultural Context The Greco-Roman world's social norms and infrastructures influenced the early Christian practice of hospitality. Welcoming travelers, especially those spreading the Christian faith, was a crucial element of Christian conduct, reflecting broader social customs of hospitality.
Structure 3 John is the shortest book in the New Testament and lacks a formal structure seen in Pauline epistles, focusing instead on personal commendations, warnings, and instructions within an epistolary framework.


Section Verses Description
Greeting 1 John introduces himself as "the elder" and greets Gaius, whom he loves in the truth.
Commendation of Gaius 2-8 John praises Gaius for his faithfulness and hospitality towards fellow Christians and itinerant preachers.
Criticism of Diotrephes 9-10 John condemns Diotrephes for his arrogance and refusal to welcome fellow believers, as well as for spreading malicious gossip.
Commendation of Demetrius 11-12 John advises following good examples and commends Demetrius for his good reputation and truthfulness.
Final Greetings 13-15 John expresses his desire to speak further in person rather than by letter and extends final greetings, wishing peace.