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3 John
Diotrephes
1. In the New Testament of the Bible, the third letter of John mentions a man named Diotrephes, who is portrayed in a negative light. Diotrephes is described as someone who holds a position of influence or leadership within a local Christian community. The apostle John, the author of the letter, contrasts Diotrephes' behavior with the positive example of Gaius, another member of the same community.
2. According to 3 John, Diotrephes is depicted as acting in an authoritarian and divisive manner. He is said to be refusing to welcome traveling missionaries and even expelling those who seek to promote unity and cooperation among believers. It seems that Diotrephes was using his position of authority to exert control and hinder the work of those who were spreading the message of the Gospel.
3. John's letter expresses concern about the negative behavior of Diotrephes and indicates that he plans to address the situation when he visits the community. The apostle urges Gaius and the rest of the congregation not to imitate what is evil but to imitate what is good. He encourages them to continue showing hospitality and support to those who are faithfully serving in the name of Christ.
4. The story of Diotrephes in 3 John serves as a cautionary example of the dangers of pride, self-centeredness, and misuse of authority within the Christian community. It highlights the potential for individuals in positions of leadership to act in ways that are harmful to the unity and mission of the church.
5. The portrayal of Diotrephes in 3 John emphasizes the importance of humility, love, and cooperation within the Christian community. The negative example of Diotrephes serves as a reminder of the potential pitfalls of power and influence when they are not exercised with wisdom and in alignment with the teachings of Jesus Christ.
