3 John 1:10

So if I come, I will call attention to his malicious slander against us. And unsatisfied with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers and forbids those who want to do so, even putting them out of the church.

Study Bible

So if I come, I will call attention to his malicious slander against us.

John intends to address Diotrephes publicly and personally, exercising the responsibility entrusted to him as an apostle and eyewitness of Christ. Diotrephes has attacked John and his fellow workers with false, harmful accusations, seeking to weaken their influence in the church. Such conduct violates the truth and love that must govern Christian fellowship and resembles the discord God condemns among His people (Proverbs 6:16–19).

Pro 10:18 The one who conceals hatred has lying lips…
Psa 101:5 Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret,…
Eph 5:13 But everything exposed by the light becomes visible,…

And unsatisfied with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers

Diotrephes rejects faithful brothers who travel in service of the gospel, refusing the hospitality that churches were expected to provide for Christ’s servants. Believers were to receive those who taught the truth, thereby sharing in their work for the name of Christ (3 John 5–8). His refusal reveals not discernment against error, but opposition to faithful ministry.

Phm 1:17 So if you consider me a partner, receive him as you would…
Rom 15:7 Accept one another, just as Christ accepted you,…
1Pe 4:9 Show hospitality to one another without complaining.

and forbids those who want to do so,

Diotrephes extends his rebellion by preventing others in the congregation from obeying the command to love and support fellow believers. His desire for control stands in direct contrast to Christ’s pattern of humble, servant-hearted leadership (Mark 10:42–45). A church cannot flourish when personal ambition overrides obedience to the truth.

Mrk 9:39 “Do not stop him,” Jesus replied. “For no one who performs……
Luk 9:50 “Do not stop him,” Jesus replied, “for whoever is not against…”…
Mat 23:13 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites!…

even putting them out of the church.

Diotrephes abuses church discipline by expelling those who receive faithful workers. Rather than guarding the church from false teaching, he punishes believers for doing what is right. His conduct recalls the synagogue leaders who cast out those who confessed Christ (John 9:22, 34), showing how religious authority can be misused when pride replaces submission to God.

Mat 18:17 If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church.…
1Co 5:13 God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man…”…
Tit 3:10 Reject a divisive man after a first and second admonition,

Persons / Places / Events

1. John the Apostle
The author of the letter, an elder in the early church, writing to address issues within the church community.

2. Diotrephes
A church leader who is causing division by rejecting John's authority, spreading malicious slander, and refusing hospitality to fellow believers.

3. The Brothers
Likely itinerant missionaries or teachers who were traveling to spread the Gospel and relied on the hospitality of local believers.

4. The Church
The local congregation where Diotrephes holds influence, which is experiencing conflict due to his actions.

5. Gaius
The recipient of the letter, commended by John for his faithfulness and hospitality, in contrast to Diotrephes.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride and Self-Exaltation
Diotrephes' actions stem from a desire for preeminence, which leads to division and harm within the church. Believers must guard against pride and seek humility.

The Importance of Accountability in Leadership
Church leaders must be held accountable for their actions. John's intention to confront Diotrephes serves as a model for addressing misconduct in leadership.

The Call to Hospitality and Support for Fellow Believers
Hospitality is a vital expression of Christian love and support. Believers are encouraged to welcome and support those who labor for the Gospel.

The Role of Church Discipline
Proper church discipline is necessary to maintain the integrity and unity of the church. It should be exercised with love and a desire for restoration.

The Power of Slander and the Need for Truth
Slander can cause significant damage within the church. Believers must be committed to truth and resist the temptation to spread falsehoods.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Diotrephes' behavior contrast with the biblical model of leadership and hospitality?

2. What steps can we take to ensure accountability and integrity within our church leadership?

3. In what ways can we practice hospitality in our own lives, especially towards those who are serving in ministry?

4. How should we respond when we encounter slander or false accusations within the church community?

5. How can the principles of church discipline outlined in Matthew 18:15-17 be applied in a loving and restorative manner today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Timothy 5:19-20
This passage discusses the proper handling of accusations against church leaders, emphasizing the need for accountability and public rebuke when necessary.

Matthew 18:15-17
Jesus outlines the process for addressing sin within the church, which includes confronting the individual and, if necessary, bringing the matter before the church.

1 Peter 5:2-3
Peter instructs church leaders to shepherd the flock willingly and not domineeringly, contrasting with Diotrephes' behavior.

Romans 12:10
Encourages believers to show brotherly love and honor one another, which Diotrephes fails to do.

Hebrews 13:2
Reminds believers to show hospitality, as some have entertained angels without knowing it, highlighting the importance of welcoming fellow believers.