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The Letters of John

Diotrephes and Demetrius

3 John 9-15, ESV
Dr. Ed Pilapil Jr.
December 21, 2025
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Sermon Notes

Introduction

From the very beginning, we see the heart of Apostle John. He writes as an elder who truly loves and cares for Gaius, a believer known for his faithfulness. John praises him because he walks in the truth, and his life shows it clearly. Gaius also practices hospitality, especially toward fellow believers who travel to serve the Lord. Even when they are strangers, he welcomes them. In the second part of the letter, John gives a warning. He tells Gaius who should not be imitated, and who should. The apostle mentions Diotrephes and Demetrius.

1. Diotrephes

John refers to his letter to the church, but Diotrephes does not acknowledge apostolic authority. He likes to put himself first. Unlike Gaius, Diotrephes also spoke against the apostle and did not welcome the traveling workers. Moreover, he removes people from the church who welcome the people from the apostle.

3 John 9-11: I have written something to the church, but Diotrephes, who likes to put himself first, does not acknowledge our authority. So if I come, I will bring up what he is doing, talking wicked nonsense against us. And not content with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers, and also stops those who want to and puts them out of the church. Beloved, do not imitate evil but imitate good. Whoever does good is from God; whoever does evil has not seen God.

2. Demetrius

John commends Demetrius. Fellow believers spoke well of him in relation to the truth. The apostle confirms this testimony himself. John instructs Gaius to imitate what is good, and that is Demetrius.

3 John 12: Demetrius has received a good testimony from everyone, and from the truth itself. We also add our testimony, and you know that our testimony is true.

3. Fellowship

John states that he has much to write, but prefers to talk face-to-face. The apostle desires fellowship with a fellow servant in the truth. He signs off with peace and delivers the greetings of his companions. John also asked Gaius to extend his greeting to everyone by name.

3 John 13-15: I had much to write to you, but I would rather not write with pen and ink. I hope to see you soon, and we will talk face to face. Peace be to you. The friends greet you. Greet the friends, each by name.

Application

  1. Do not imitate those who reject apostolic authority, which is the NT. Instead, study the Scriptures, and welcome all who work for the proclamation of the gospel. We should also name those who self-promote against the truth.
  2. We should imitate those who walk in the truth and all who welcome those who proclaim the truth. Moreover, let us live the truth that others may witness our lives and glorify the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
  3. Let us desire peace and fellowship with all who walk in the truth of God’s word. It is not enough to send messages or messengers; we should visit each other while we have strength. Some things are better spoken than written.

Study Guide

  1. How did John describe Diotrephes? What does the apostle plan to do?
  2. Compare Demetrius with Gaius. In what ways are they similar?
  3. How did John end his letter to Gaius?