3 John 1:10 — So when I come, I will call attention to what he is doing, spreading malicious nonsense about us. Not satisfied with that, he even refuses to welcome other believers. He also stops those who want to do so and puts them out of the church.
Extended Explanation
In this verse, John is making it clear that Diotrephes’ behavior will not go unnoticed. John plans to confront the situation personally. He lists exactly what Diotrephes is doing wrong:
- Spreading lies and harmful talk about John and the other leaders.
- Refusing to welcome fellow believers.
- Stopping others from showing hospitality.
- Throwing people out of the church who want to do the right thing.
John isn’t just angry because his feelings are hurt. He’s concerned because Diotrephes’ pride and controlling behavior are damaging the church, hurting relationships, and blocking the truth from being lived out. John’s goal is not revenge but correction — to protect the church and bring the truth back to the center.
Historical Context
In the early church, there were no formal denominations or organized leadership structures like we see today. Authority often rested on the apostles and those they trained. Letters like this were a key way to guide and guard the churches.
Diotrephes had apparently taken power in one local church and was misusing it. He was slandering John, rejecting visiting believers, and even kicking faithful people out of the church. In that time, being removed from the church community was a serious thing — it meant being cut off from fellowship, teaching, and support.
John’s letter shows that church problems and power struggles aren’t new. Even in the early church, human pride and control could get in the way of God’s mission.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that how we use authority matters deeply to God. Leadership in the church is supposed to reflect Jesus — marked by humility, love, truth, and service. When leaders misuse power, spread lies, or control others for selfish reasons, they are acting against God’s design.
It also teaches that truth and unity in the church matter. John is willing to confront sin openly because protecting the truth and caring for the church family is more important than avoiding conflict.
Literary Analysis
John’s language here is very direct. He’s not vague or passive. He names specific sins: malicious nonsense, refusal to welcome believers, stopping others from showing love, and removing people from fellowship.
The structure of the verse builds intensity, showing how Diotrephes’ behavior escalated — from lies to control to outright harm. John’s words are pastoral but firm. He is defending the truth and the people of God.
Cross-References
- Titus 1:10-11 — Paul warns about rebellious people who deceive and must be silenced.
- Matthew 18:15-17 — Jesus teaches how to confront sin in the church.
- 2 Timothy 3:1-5 — Describes people who love themselves and reject truth.
- James 3:14-16 — Warns against bitter envy, selfish ambition, and disorder.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s believer, this verse is a sober reminder that church leadership and relationships should always reflect God’s truth and love. Pride, gossip, control, and power struggles have no place in the family of God.
It also reminds us that sometimes confrontation is necessary. Protecting the truth and caring for God’s people may require speaking hard truths and calling out wrong behavior — not out of anger, but out of love for the church.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is protective and truthful. He loves His people too much to let pride, lies, and division destroy His church. This verse shows that God cares not only about individuals but about the health and unity of the church family.
God’s love sometimes shows up in correction — because He wants His people to live in truth and peace.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus warned His followers about false shepherds and self-centered leaders (John 10:12-13). He also taught that true leadership is about service, not control (Mark 10:42-45).
John’s approach here reflects Jesus’ example: calling out sin, protecting the flock, and pointing back to truth. Jesus Himself confronted religious leaders who misused their authority, always standing for truth and love.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you respond when you see pride or control damaging relationships in the church?
- What does this verse teach about the importance of truth and accountability in leadership?
- Are there areas in your life where you need to guard against selfish ambition or gossip?
- How can you support church leaders who lead with humility and truth?
- What steps can you take to promote peace, love, and truth in your church community?