3 John is a New Testament book, traditionally attributed to John the Apostle, and it is the third of three books of John in the New Testament. It is a letter addressed to a man named Gaius, and it primarily focuses on greeting Gaius and wishing him well, as well as addressing certain individuals who are causing division in the community. The book encourages Gaius to continue in his good deeds and hospitality to traveling missionaries. With only 14 verses, 3 John is the shortest book in the Bible and one of the shortest books in the New Testament.
The purpose of the book of 3 John is not entirely clear, but some interpret it as a letter of encouragement and support, while others see it as a warning against false teachers and their negative influence on the early Christian community. Despite its short length, 3 John provides insight into the concerns and challenges faced by early Christian communities, and it remains a relevant and important part of the Christian canon.
3 John also provides a unique glimpse into the personal relationships among early Christians, as it is written in a highly personal and informal style, using language that is intimate and affectionate. This, combined with its focus on hospitality and the importance of supporting traveling missionaries, makes 3 John a powerful testimony to the close-knit nature of early Christian communities and the central role that hospitality and support played in the spread of the gospel.
Overall, 3 John is an important part of the New Testament and provides valuable insight into the early Christian community, as well as important teachings on hospitality, support, and the dangers of false teachers.
