Let's be honest, most people skip right over the tiny books at the back of the New Testament. 3 John is one of those—it's incredibly short, just a personal note. But don't let its size fool you. It packs a real-world punch.

The Story

The apostle John writes a letter to his friend Gaius. He's thrilled to hear that Gaius is faithfully hosting traveling teachers ("brothers") who are spreading the message about Jesus. But there's a problem. A church leader named Diotrephes loves being the top dog. He's spreading nasty rumors about John and refusing to welcome these teachers. Even worse, he's throwing out anyone from the church who tries to show them kindness. John says he'll deal with it when he visits, and he encourages Gaius to keep doing good, not evil.

Why You Should Read It

This isn't abstract theology. It's a raw look at a church conflict. You can feel John's frustration. Diotrephes isn't some cartoon villain; he's a leader corrupted by his own pride and desire for control. The core theme is simple: actions prove what's in your heart. Are you building people up or shutting them out? Gaius shows quiet, courageous kindness, while Diotrephes creates division. It's a stark reminder that community has always been messy.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone curious about the early, gritty days of the Christian church, or for readers who love character-driven stories—even in miniature. If you've ever been part of a club, team, or organization where personality clashes got in the way of the mission, you'll see a bit of that here. It's a powerful, 5-minute read about pride, hospitality, and the choice we all face: to welcome or to reject.