Embracing Hospitality: Living as Fellow Workers for the Truth

We therefore ought to receive such, that we may become fellow workers for the truth. I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to have the preeminence among them, does not receive us. Therefore, if I come, I will call to mind his deeds which he does, prating against us with malicious words. And not content with that, he himself does not receive the brethren, and forbids those who wish to, putting them out of the church. (3 John 1:8-10)

John wrote this letter to a Christian named Gaius, a man of true integrity whose love for both the church and those outside the church is evident. Many of the same themes John emphasized in his first letter are present in 3 John: the need to walk in truth, to live in a manner worthy of God, and to love our fellow Christians. In an era when false teaching and false teachers proliferate, it is crucial for the church to love one another more.

Becoming Fellow Workers for the Truth

In the first-century church, it was common for evangelists and other brethren to visit different congregations on their travels. Paul set the example for this practice, taking men like Timothy, Titus, and Silas on his missionary journeys. When other concerns occupied Paul, he would send one of these men to deliver a letter, follow up on a previous letter, check on the well-being of a church, or reinforce the doctrine taught by Paul in previous visits.

For example, he tells the Corinthians to expect a visit from Timothy in 1 Corinthians 16:10-11: “When Timothy comes,” Paul says, “see that you put him at ease among you, for he is doing the work of the Lord, as I am. Therefore let no one despise him. But send him on his journey in peace, that he may come to me; for I am waiting for him with the brethren.” Here, Paul reminds the church of their obligation to treat traveling ministers with respect, ensure their needs are met, and support them as they continue their work.

Supporting the Gospel as Fellow Workers for the Truth

John reinforces this same idea in verse 8. When we welcome and support faithful teachers and missionaries, we share in their labor. We may not be the ones standing in the pulpit or traveling to foreign lands. But by providing hospitality, financial support, and encouragement, we become “fellow workers for the truth.” Hospitality is not just a nice gesture; it is an active participation in the advancement of the gospel. 

The Danger of Pride and Diotrephes

In stark contrast to Gaius, John introduces a man named Diotrephes. Diotrephes represents the exact opposite of Christian love and hospitality.

John describes his primary character flaw: “he loves to have the preeminence.” Diotrephes wanted to be the boss. He wanted control. He desired recognition and authority above everyone else. This prideful attitude is completely contrary to the teachings of Jesus, who modeled humility and servant leadership. Diotrephes’ desire for control led to destructive behavior within the congregation. First, he refused to receive the Apostle John or those he sent. His pride led him to reject apostolic authority because he viewed John as a threat to his power.

Diotrephes did not stop at ignoring John’s letters; he actively campaigned against him. He used “malicious words”—gossip, slander, and lies—to undermine John’s reputation. Furthermore, he refused to show hospitality to the traveling brethren. Worst of all, if anyone in the church did want to welcome these traveling teachers, Diotrephes stopped them and even excommunicated them—”putting them out of the church.” Diotrephes used fear and intimidation to maintain his control, creating a toxic environment where truth and love were suppressed.