Who is involved?
John, the elder – An apostle of Christ Jesus who referred to himself in the gospel of John, as the disciple whom Jesus loved. He was the son of Zebedee and the brother of James. He was a fisherman by trade, who left his net to follow Jesus.
Gaius, a leader in the church in Asia Minor. A man who reportedly struggled with health issues but still made sure to serve well his fellow Christians; in truth and love. He stood for truth and sound doctrine. He loved well and gave generously.
Diotrephes, a troublemaker within the body of Christ, the church. He was selfish, power hungry, liked to be the center of attention and unwilling to support missionaries who were giving their life’s work to spreading the gospel of Christ. He refused to take instruction and correct his wrong behavior.
Demetrius, a follower of Jesus who was spoken highly of. He lived by truth and loved genuinely. His life was living evidence of the change that Jesus made in him. He was a walking testimony of salvation through Jesus Christ.
What is happening?
John is pointing out the apostasy, total desertion of or departure from one's religion, principles, party, cause, etc.[i] within the church. The young and growing congregation of believers in Jesus Christ is dealing with disagreement on how to love and care for missionaries within the church.
Where is it happening?
The churches in Asia Minor.
When is it happening?
It would have been written near the end of John’s life; somewhere around 90-100 AD. Many scholars believe that the three letters (1 John, 2 John, 3 John) were written around the same time frame.
Why is it happening?
To Cause the Audience to Learn:
Truth [Which Always Prevails] Must Be Executed with Love
How does it point to Jesus?
The missionaries are traveling for the Lord, according to verses 7-8. In other words, they are teaching the truth of Jesus to those they meet.
[i] “apostasy”. Dictionary.com Unabridged. Source Location: Random House, Inc. 23 May. 2018. http://www.dictionary.com/browse/apostasy>.
