Begin Your Journey
Introduction to 3 John
Explore the setting, purpose, people, and major themes of this short New Testament letter before studying its individual passages.
Before studying the individual passages of 3 John, take a few minutes to understand the setting, purpose, people, and major themes of this short New Testament letter.
You do not need to use every resource on this page. Begin with the animated overview, then choose the commentary level that best fits your needs.
Recommended Starting Point
Start Here: Watch the 3 John Overview
See how 3 John fits within John’s larger message before exploring the letter in greater detail.
See the Big Picture
The BibleProject’s animated overview introduces John’s letters and helps you see how 3 John fits within John’s larger message.
As you watch, listen for themes such as:
- Walking in the truth
- Practicing Christian hospitality
- Supporting gospel workers
- Recognizing godly and ungodly leadership
- Following what is good
Three Commentary Levels
Choose Your Level of Study
Each introduction approaches 3 John with a different reader and purpose in mind. You do not need to read all three. Choose the level that will best help you today.
People of the Bible
Meet the People Behind 3 John
Learn more about the author and the three men whose examples help communicate the message of this personal letter.
The Author
John the Elder
Meet the apostolic leader who wrote with pastoral affection and spiritual authority.
Learn about John →An Example to Follow
Gaius
A faithful believer who walked in the truth and supported those serving the gospel.
Learn about Gaius →An Example to Avoid
Diotrephes
A self-centered leader who loved being first and attempted to control the church.
Learn about Diotrephes →An Example to Follow
Demetrius
A believer whose godly character and reputation made him worthy of imitation.
Learn about Demetrius →Read With Purpose
Major Themes to Watch For
Third John demonstrates that truth is more than something Christians confess. God’s truth should shape our character, relationships, leadership, hospitality, and participation in gospel ministry.
- Truth that shapes daily conduct
- Love expressed through practical hospitality
- Partnership in gospel ministry
- The danger of pride and controlling leadership
- The importance of a godly reputation
- Choosing examples worthy of imitation
- The value of face-to-face Christian fellowship
Using These Resources With Your Guided Journey
If you are using 3 John: A Guided Journey Through Scripture, follow this order:
- Begin with prayer.
- Read the assigned passage carefully.
- Use P.E.T.S. to wrestle with its meaning and application.
- Turn what you discover into prayer and obedience.
- Use the passage-specific QR code when you want commentary or additional help.
The goal is not simply to learn more about 3 John. The goal is to allow God’s truth to shape the way you live.
Begin with 3 John 1–4 Resources →Continue Studying
Explore More 3 John Resources
Continue through a complete commentary level, begin studying the first passage, or explore focused answers to common questions.
Begin Your Journey Through 3 John
Now that you understand the setting and purpose of 3 John, return to your Guided Journey and begin with 3 John 1–4.
What does it look like to know the truth, love the truth, and walk in the truth?
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