GOD REVEALED – A New Testament Journey (PART 7)Sample

3 John – Model the Gospel There is a wild chase for prosperity. The dark horses in this race are those who seek prosperity of soul. We will emerge as winners. This letter demonstrates the opposite poles of a good leader Gaius and a bad leader, Diotrephes, influencing the church. Gaius is a wealthy man who extends hospitality to missionaries. Diotrephes, on the other hand, holds a lot of clout and is trying to close the church to outside influences, even positive ones, creating a powerhouse revolving around himself. How similar to many churches and Christian organizatons today! Emulate those who model the Gospel (v 11) Demetrius was an itinerant missionary whom John and believers endorsed strongly. (11-12) The truth itself stood for Demetrius. Nobody needs to say anything when we stand for the truth. The truth stands for us. Christ stands for us. Extend hospitality to them Such people need to be made welcome (5-7). While we do need to stay committed to our local churches, we also need to have a “global church” mindset. Enjoy prosperity of soul Material prosperity should follow on the heels of prosperity of soul (1:2), not vice versa. That is John’s prayer. Experience the walk of truth Among multiple influences we need to maintain the integrity on our truth walk. (1:3-4) Expose those who battle the gospel John indicates that he plans to take Diotrephes head-on during his next visit (1:10). He will publicly expose his evil practices. In our current age of tolerance, we allow poison ivies to grow in our churches. Godly leaders should nip power centers in the bud irrespective of our role. Godless leaders have these characteristics: - Experience leanness of soul (v 9) by putting themselves before Christ. John warns not to imitate those leaders (v 11). Unfortunately, that is a hip trend today. - Contest the truth (v 10a) - Like Diotrephes, they throw false accusations and harsh criticisms on the few who are positive influences, ensuring they are squashed. - Reject external hospitality (v 10b) - They go to the extent of throwing out supporters of faithful servants. Diotrephes was creating a power center for self rather than a power center for the Spirit. Do we ensure that our prosperity of soul is ahead of material prosperity? How do we respond in situations when power-crazy leaders take over? How can we be good examples to others in the midst of these challenges?