TOPIC: DIOTREPHES AND DEMETRIUS
TEXT: 3 John 1:9-14(NKJV)
1:9. I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to have the preeminence among them, does not receive us.
1:10. 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.
1:11. Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. He who does good is of God, but he who does evil has not seen God.
1:12. Demetrius has a [good] testimony from all, and from the truth itself. And we also bear witness, and you know that our testimony is true.
1:13. I had many things to write, but I do not wish to write to you with pen and ink;
1:14. but I hope to see you shortly, and we shall speak face to face. Peace to you. Our friends greet you. Greet the friends by name.
STUDY:
These two characters were obviously notable personalities in that local assembly, similar to those we can refer to as prominent members of the Parish Church Council or Diocesan Board. Diotrephes was a spoiler who used malicious words to instigate the brethren to reject God’s servants (the missionaries). He was so terrible that he would launch persecution against those who found reasons to accommodate the brethren. He denied the entire church of her role of hospitality. On the contrary, John spoke about Demetrius who was of a sweet spirit, and had a good testimony. He was not lured or influenced by the activities of Diotrephes but made himself accountable to the truth of God’s word. In all, John had an admonition for Gaius specifically and by application, for the Church in general. He said: Dear friend, don’t let this bad example influence you. Follow only what is good.
PRAYER:
Lord, make me a person of positive influence and increase my sphere of impact.
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