Three Hearts in Third John (Part 5)

Heart of Hate

“Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church” (3 John 1:10). John would remember the things which Diotrephese was guilty of doing. Diotrephese spoke against John and those who were associated with him. He used “malicious words” as he did it. That means he said things which would be used to try and destroy the character of John. He was not contend with just using slander against John. While Gaius had a heart which would help those traveling missionaries, Diotrephese refused to allow these individuals into his home. He also forbad others from committing such an action. Those who did not listen were cast out of the congregation.

Is this My Heart?

“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.” (3 John 1:11). He tells Gaius not to follow in the example that Diotrephese is leaving. Do not follow that which is evil but rather follow that which is good. “And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory” (Is. 6:3). God is the one who deserves the glory, praise, and honor. It does not belong to man. “And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence” (Col. 1:18).