The Third of John

1 The older man*+ to Gaʹius, the beloved, whom I truly love.*+

2 Beloved+ one, I pray that in all things you may be prospering*+ and having good health,+ just as your soul is prospering.+ 3 For I rejoiced very much* when brothers came* and bore witness to the truth you hold, just as you go on walking in the truth.+ 4 No greater cause for thankfulness do I have than these things, that I should be hearing that my children go on walking in the truth.+

5 Beloved one, you are doing a faithful work in whatever you do for the brothers,+ and strangers at that,+ 6 who have borne witness to your love before the congregation. These you will please* send on their way in a manner worthy of God.+ 7 For it was in behalf of [his]* name that they went forth, not taking anything+ from the people of the nations. 8 We, therefore, are under obligation to receive such persons hospitably,+ that we may become fellow workers in the truth.*+

9 I wrote something to the congregation, but Di·otʹre·phes, who likes to have the first place*+ among them, does not receive anything+ from us with respect.+ 10 That is why, if I come, I will call to remembrance his works which he goes on doing,+ chattering about us with wicked words.+ Also, not being content* with these things, neither does he himself receive the brothers+ with respect, and those who are wanting to receive+ them he tries* to hinder+ and to throw out+ of the congregation.

11 Beloved one, be an imitator, not of what is bad, but of what is good.+ He that does good originates with God.+ He that does bad has not seen God.+ 12 De·meʹtri·us has had witness borne to him by them all+ and by the truth itself. In fact, we, also, are bearing witness,+ and you know that the witness we give is true.+

13 I had many things to write you, yet I do not wish to go on writing you with ink and pen.*+ 14 But I am hoping to see you directly, and we shall speak face to face.*+

May you have peace.+

The friends send you their greetings.+ Give my greetings+ to the friends by name.