3rd John 1 THE ELDER Almost everyone has certain characteristics, habits or special traits for which they are well known. John was well up in years when he wrote this short note to Gaius who was one of his spiritual children. Therefore, when he wrote, "the elder" was a term by which he was known and there was no question as to the fact the letter was from John. Earlier on his life he was known as "The disciple who Jesus loved." The source and nature of the apostle John's love was "the truth." His strong affection was rooted in "the truth." It was on account of the truth he lived, was imprisoned and wrote his epistles, the Gospel of John and the book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ.
The truth is the body of doctrine that we know to be the true word of God. It is in that context our love for God and His people exists and is demonstrated today. Sincerity in the truth and the holding of "the faith once delivered to the saints," is evident in the lives of God's people who walk in the light. It is that kind of affection John, the elder, had for his son in the faith, Gaius.
This man Gaius, was one of several recorded in the Bible who had that same name. It was a very common name among the Romans of that day. One brother named Gaius traveled with Aristarchus and Paul in the work of the Lord. Gaius and Aristarchus were taken before the court at Ephesus at the time of the riot over the business of making idols of Diana. Gaius of Derbe, was one of a number of men from different places who travelled with Paul. Even though they were from different backgrounds and personalities, they would have learned how to adapt to, and work with others in the common purpose of preaching the Gospel.
Gaius of Corinth was one of the two Paul baptized. He refrained from doing the actual baptizing usually, "lest any should think I had baptized in mine own name." Gaius was also privileged to be Paul's host, and apparently was a man of means who could host the whole assembly, likely in his own home, as a meeting place. Gaius in 3rd John was also known as one who showed hospitality to traveling saints who were serving the Lord in the work of the Gospel.
The fact that his actual location is not mentioned is in keeping with the purpose of John's short letter. All of us have the privilege of showing hospitality to others. It is one of the most positive and effective ways of showing Christian love and values to others. This is like the welcome God gives from His heart of love and grace to those who cannot meet their own needs. It is a demonstration of the fellowship we have one with another because of our fellowship with the Lord.
How encouraging it must have been to Gaius when he got this touching note from John who in the twelve words of the first verse uses the word "love" twice, and the first word of the second verse. John did not use this form of address to the "elect lady" in 2nd John because it would have been inappropriate and could have been misconstrued. In this context, that of a spiritual father and son, it has a deep value, especially since it is qualified as "love in the truth." It is not a mere comment on his own appreciation for Gaius, but is the reason behind this genuine affection.
For those who love "the truth" there is a special common ground of fellowship in the Christian life. This is able to be nurtured and promoted by words of encouragement and support. It is never out of place to commend our brothers and sisters in Christ for their faithful service for the Lord in whatever their sphere of life is. Words of thanks and deserved honor always have a place in a conversation or letter when they are sincere, and come from Christian love.
It doesn't always matter how much you have to say. More important is what's behind them to help another on the way. A word of encouragement or praise, a thought spoken from the heart, Can make a lot of difference to one whose life is torn apart.
Sincerity and affection that finds their root in truth, Is often expressed in simple terms, but are of priceless worth. None of us can realize the full depth another is passing through. But words that are "fitly spoken," mean much because they're true.
s1 A little bit of time taken out of the busy stream of life. Might be exactly what is needed by one who is in the midst of strife. To write some words of scripture truth that is able to be used by our Lord, He adds the essence of His Person to the great power of His word.
An older believer who shows interest in one just starting out, Can be much more effective than a sermon or a shout. The young in turn can show appreciation to an older one who cares. Both in their own way and time another's burden bears.
"I thank Thee, Gracious Father, for allowing me the great privilege of knowing many of Thy own children. It is always such a joy to be able to share our lives in Christ and communicate openly with them regarding "the truth" which we all love because it is Thy word speaking personally to us. I thank Thee for them and for it, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen."