3 John 1:14

Instead, I hope to see you soon and speak with you face to face. Peace to you. The friends here send you greetings. Greet each of our friends there by name.

Study Bible

Instead, I hope to see you soon
The word "Instead" indicates a shift from the previous verse, where John mentions writing with pen and ink. This highlights the personal nature of the apostle's relationship with the recipient, emphasizing the importance of face-to-face interaction over written communication. The Greek word for "hope" (ἐλπίζω, elpizō) conveys a confident expectation rather than mere wishful thinking. This reflects John's deep desire and anticipation to visit, underscoring the value of personal fellowship in the early Christian community.

and we will speak face to face
The phrase "face to face" (πρόσωπον πρὸς πρόσωπον, prosōpon pros prosōpon) is a powerful expression of intimacy and direct communication. In the ancient world, personal presence was crucial for building trust and understanding. This phrase echoes the Old Testament encounters with God, such as Moses speaking with God "face to face" (Exodus 33:11), symbolizing a close and personal relationship. John’s intention to speak directly highlights the importance of personal interaction in resolving issues and strengthening bonds within the church.

Peace to you
"Peace" (εἰρήνη, eirēnē) is a traditional Jewish and Christian greeting, rooted in the Hebrew word "shalom." It signifies not just the absence of conflict but a holistic sense of well-being, harmony, and divine blessing. In the context of John's letter, this blessing of peace serves as a prayer for the recipient's spiritual and communal well-being, reflecting the early church's emphasis on unity and love among believers.

The friends here send you greetings
The term "friends" (φίλοι, philoi) indicates a close-knit community of believers. This reflects the familial nature of the early church, where members were bound together by their shared faith in Christ. The act of sending greetings was a common practice in ancient letters, serving to strengthen the bonds between distant Christian communities and affirming their mutual support and love.

Greet the friends there by name
The instruction to "greet the friends there by name" underscores the personal nature of Christian fellowship. Naming individuals highlights their unique value and importance within the community. This practice of personal greeting reflects the early church's emphasis on recognizing and honoring each member, fostering a sense of belonging and personal care. It also serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the body of Christ, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Apostle John
The author of the letter, traditionally understood to be John the Apostle, one of Jesus' original twelve disciples. He is writing to Gaius, a beloved friend and fellow believer.

2. Gaius
The recipient of the letter, a faithful Christian who is commended for his hospitality and support of traveling missionaries.

3. The Friends
Refers to fellow believers, both those with John and those with Gaius. This term emphasizes the close-knit community of early Christians.

4. Face-to-Face Meeting
John expresses his desire to visit Gaius personally, highlighting the importance of personal fellowship and communication in the early church.

5. Peace
A common greeting and blessing in the New Testament, reflecting the Hebrew concept of "shalom," which encompasses well-being, harmony, and completeness.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Personal Fellowship
Personal interactions are vital for building strong Christian relationships and community. In an age of digital communication, we should prioritize face-to-face fellowship when possible.

The Blessing of Peace
As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers and to extend the peace of Christ to others. This peace is not just the absence of conflict but a holistic well-being that we should seek for ourselves and others.

The Value of Naming and Knowing
John’s instruction to greet friends by name underscores the importance of personal recognition and care within the Christian community. We should strive to know and be known by our fellow believers.

Hospitality as a Christian Virtue
Gaius is commended for his hospitality, reminding us of the importance of welcoming and supporting others, especially those who are serving in ministry.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the desire for face-to-face communication in 3 John 1:14 challenge our current reliance on digital communication? What steps can you take to foster more personal interactions in your Christian community?

2. In what ways can you extend the peace of Christ to those around you, both within and outside the church?

3. Reflect on the importance of greeting others by name as John instructs. How can this practice enhance your relationships within your church or community?

4. How does the example of Gaius' hospitality inspire you to support those in ministry or those in need? What practical steps can you take to show hospitality?

5. Consider the role of personal fellowship in your spiritual growth. How can you prioritize and cultivate deeper relationships with fellow believers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 John 1:12
Similar to 3 John 1:14, John expresses a desire to speak face to face, emphasizing the value of personal interaction over written communication.

John 20:19-21
Jesus greets His disciples with "Peace be with you," illustrating the continuity of this blessing from Christ to His followers.

Acts 2:42-47
The early church's devotion to fellowship and breaking bread together mirrors the relational emphasis seen in John's desire for face-to-face interaction.