In a recap of this study on 3 John so far, we know John is writing Gaius, whom we know little about other than: he is loved by John (as a brother and friend), of Greek descent (his namesake), and is living (walking) according to truth (the Gospel) and is faithful to the mission (to spread the Gospel), and is generous in his love and kindness, laboring as a coworker in cooperation with the Spirit (how and where God is moving).

I believe it is safe to assume Gaius is a leader, or elder, of his local Church. In verse 9 we read about another leader, Diotrephes:

“I wrote something to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first among them, does not acknowledge us.” (NET)

This is our first introduction to this individual, but we quickly learn two things that we can acknowledge are attributes of bad leadership. John says he “loves to be first among them” and that he does not “acknowledge” the others, which I would reframe as “hostility”. These have a similar root, but lets examine each alone.

Loves to be first.

To be first in this sense, is to be elevated, or preeminent, to have power, superiority or authority. Bad leaders love their power. They seek it above all else. They develop an insatiable appetite for it. They exercise their power to keep it, by putting others out or down. They lash out when their position is challenged. Lucifer has a similar appetite, and it has lead him to his destruction. This desire to be first is so destructive, Christ warns against it in Lukes Gospel.

Hostility.

Bad leaders are inhospitable, especially to other leaders. They do not want to answer to another. They don’t want to serve others. They don’t want to submit to others. They want to keep others out. They show hostility instead of hospitality. Instead of friendship or a collaborative spirit, they show bitterness, selfishness, and hardheartedness. It is not how we respond to our salvation and forgiveness from God.

Pride is the root.

These sinful attributes are rooted pride. No one likes to follow someone who is proud of heart. They act in a disgraceful way, and bring no honor to themselves. Humility is a better way. Proverbs 11:2 warns “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” This isn’t a light matter; “The LORD detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.” (Proverbs 16:5).

When we compare Gaius we can see how he is not self serving and shows love to others. He doesn’t seek to be first, or to have power over others. He doesn’t see himself as superior. He shows friendship and love to outsiders, and welcomes in others. He submits to others, as we should too.

Peace be with you.

Submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Ephesians 5:21